Anthony Hopkins to Star in Movie "The Species"

HanWay Films is launching international sales on “The Species,” a new period drama from British director Justin Chadwick (“Mandela: Long Walk to Freedom,” “The Other Boleyn Girl”), written by Jacob Killion.

The cast is led by Anthony Hopkins as Charles Darwin, Charlotte Rampling as his wife Emma Darwin, with Tom Hollander as publisher Marshall Winwick and Billy Howle as Charles, and Emma’s son George Darwin.

The pic is produced by Christian Taylor of Taylor Lane Productions, who originated and developed the project, along with Mary Aloe of Aloe Entertainment and Joshua Harris of Peachtree Media Group. UTA Independent Talent Group reps domestic sales.

Emma Darwin, widow of scientist Charles Darwin, finds herself on a late-life journey of self-discovery as she faces a challenge to her faith in the form of her beloved atheist husband’s as–yet–unpublished autobiography.

Emma Darwin is surrounded by memories of her late husband at Down House, their beautiful estate.

Whilst on a late life journey of self-discovery since recently being made a widow, she finds herself locked in a battle with her son George and pushy publisher Marshall Winwick over Charles’ autobiography.

It presents a challenge to her faith: will the publication of her almost heretically atheist husband’s work jeopardize his safe passage to heaven and their chance to be reunited in the afterlife?

Emma’s steely will and playful humor prove more than a match for Winwick, and by confronting her son she banishes old hurts and ultimately brings them closer together.

Throughout it all she finds an unexpected ally in her husband’s spirit who appears to her in moments through the story, their laughter and lively debate affording an intimate window into a lasting and hopefully eternal marriage.

Production is scheduled to launch in June 2026 in Northern Ireland.