20th Century Studios is readying a new Master and Commander movie based upon author Patrick O’Brian’s Aubrey-Maturin historical nautical adventure book series, and has set Patrick Ness (A Monster Calls) to write the script.
Director Peter Weir previously brought the books to life with 2003’s Master and Commander: The Far Side of the World, which saw Russell Crowe portraying Captain Jack Aubrey of the HMS Surprise and Paul Bettany as ship’s surgeon Dr. Stephen Maturin. It was nominated for 10 Oscars, including Best Picture, and was a modest success at the box office.
The new film is believed to be a prequel exploring a young Aubrey’s first command and how his friendship with Maturin begins. While Crowe has previously expressed an interest in returning for another voyage, neither he nor Bettany are expected to feature, although it is still very early in the development stages with no director or talent attached.
Via Deadline
