Millie Bobby Brown to Bring Bestselling Novel ‘Nineteen Steps’ to Netflix as Feature Film
Millie Bobby Brown, known for her role as Eleven in the hit series Stranger Things, is set to bring her debut novel, Nineteen Steps, to life on Netflix. The novel, a New York Times and Sunday Times bestseller, was published in September 2023 by William Morrow. Drawing from Brown’s grandmother’s experiences during World War II, the story follows 18-year-old Nellie Morris in East London’s Bethnal Green neighborhood. The narrative delves into the challenges of wartime existence, including bombings, rationing, and the emotional toll of separation from loved ones. A central historical event in the novel is the Bethnal Green Tube disaster, a tragic incident during an air raid that claimed the lives of 173 people.
Brown, a rising star with accolades for her work on Stranger Things, has earned Emmy and SAG Award nominations for her performance. She has also made a mark in the film industry with roles in Netflix’s popular Enola Holmes series and blockbuster films like Godzilla: King of the Monsters and Godzilla vs. Kong. Brown’s upcoming project, The Electric State, alongside Chris Pratt, is highly anticipated and scheduled for a March 2025 release.
Anthony McCarten, a four-time Oscar nominee known for his work on films like The Theory of Everything and Bohemian Rhapsody, is set to adapt the screenplay for Nineteen Steps. McCarten’s diverse portfolio includes music biopics and upcoming projects like The Collaboration, exploring the friendship between artists Andy Warhol and Jean-Michel Basquiat.
Rideback, the production company behind the project, has a successful track record with films like Aladdin and the It franchise. Currently, the company is working on Disney’s Lilo & Stitch film, set to hit theaters next summer. Founded by producer Dan Lin, Rideback continues to thrive under the leadership of Jonathan Eirich and Michael LoFaso.
Brown’s talent is represented by WME and Hansen, Jacobson, Teller, while McCarten is represented by CAA and Myman Greenspan Fox. With the collaboration of these talented individuals, Nineteen Steps promises to be a compelling adaptation that will captivate audiences on Netflix.