Amazon entrusts live-action remake of the beloved animated film “FernGully” to Marielle Heller
According to the CinemaDrame news agency, Amazon MGM Studios is planning to remake the 1992 animated classic “FernGully: The Last Rainforest” as a live-action film. New reports indicate that Marielle Heller has been chosen to direct and write the screenplay for this major project.
The producing team includes Stacey Sher, Suzanne and John Schanberg, and Matt Feige, who will work alongside Marielle Heller and Leah Holzer during production. Monlee Singha is also attached as production executive.
The original film, released in the 1990s, is remembered for featuring voice performances from major stars such as Robin Williams, Tim Curry, Christian Slater, and Samantha Mathis. It is set in a rainforest in Australia inhabited by fairies. The story begins when one of the fairies accidentally shrinks a logger to her size, and they eventually join forces to protect the environment from a destructive, polluting entity known as “Hexxus.”
Beyond its story, the film is also known for its music, featuring artists such as Elton John, Sheena Easton, and Robin Williams—especially Williams’ comedic musical segment, which remains memorable among fans.
Marielle Heller’s selection for this project marks her second major film deal in recent months. She is also set to reunite with Tom Hanks in October for the baseball film “The Comebacker,” a project acquired by Sony Pictures after a competitive bidding process. Heller, known for directing the critically acclaimed “A Beautiful Day in the Neighborhood,” recently added “Nightbitch,” starring Amy Adams, to her filmography. Distribution rights for the original animated film are still held by Shoot Factory.
