Millie Bobby Brown, known for her role in “Stranger Things,” is set to bring her debut novel, “Nineteen Steps,” to life as a Netflix feature film. The news was first reported by Deadline. Brown will produce the movie under her PCMA banner and is also aiming to take on a starring role in the film. The screenplay adaptation of the novel will be handled by Anthony McCarten, the writer behind “The Theory of Everything.” Jonathan Eirich will produce for Rideback, with Nick Reynolds serving as the executive producer.
Netflix declined to comment on the project when reached by IndieWire. “Nineteen Steps” has achieved significant success as a New York Times and Sunday Times bestseller since its publication by William Morrow in September 2023. The story draws inspiration from Brown’s grandmother’s experiences during World War II.
The narrative of “Nineteen Steps” revolves around Nellie Morris, an 18-year-old residing in East London’s Bethnal Green neighborhood. Nellie must navigate the challenges of wartime existence, including bombings, rationing, and the emotional strain of separation from loved ones, all while embarking on a new romance with an American airman named Ray. A central historical event in the book is the Bethnal Green Tube disaster, where 173 individuals lost their lives while seeking shelter during an air raid. Notably, the Bethnal Green underground station features 19 steps leading to the tube.
Brown co-authored the book with Kathleen McGurl and rose to fame through her role in “Stranger Things.” She has remained closely associated with Netflix, starring in projects like “Enola Holmes” and “Damsel.” Brown has been actively involved in the adaptation of these novels for the screen, showcasing her multifaceted talents beyond acting.
“Damsel,” an action film featuring Brown, has emerged as one of Netflix’s most-watched films, garnering 138 million views within its initial 91 days of release. Brown’s prominence on Netflix is further evidenced by the success of “Stranger Things,” a series that continues to captivate audiences with its intriguing storyline and compelling characters.
As Brown’s career continues to flourish, her involvement in bringing literary works to the screen underscores her versatility and creative vision. With “Nineteen Steps” poised for adaptation into a feature film, audiences can anticipate a captivating cinematic experience that delves into the complexities of wartime life and personal relationships. Brown’s journey from a breakout star to a multifaceted creator highlights her commitment to storytelling and her ability to engage audiences across different mediums.