Oscar-winning filmmaker Neil Jordan is to direct a feature based on one of his own novels for the first time.

“The Well of Saint Nobody,” adapted from “The Crying Game,” “Interview With the Vampire” and “Michael Collins” director’s acclaimed 2023 novel of the same name, will be introduced to buyers in Cannes by Bankside Films.

Oscar winner Jeremy Irons (“The French Lieutenant’s Woman,” “Reversal of Fortune,”) Oscar nominee Helena Bonham Carter (“Ocean’s Eight,” “The King’s Speech”) and Aidan Quinn (“Michael Collins,” “Legends of the Fall”) are attached to star in the film, currently in pre-production, and expected to start shooting later in 2024.

“The Well of Saint Nobody,” follows William, a famous concert pianist who retires to a rectory in West Cork, Ireland. There, he hires local woman, Tara, as a housekeeper who he has met three times yet forgotten all about her. While he remembers nothing of their previous meetings, she remembers everything. When an abandoned well is found on the property she shares legends of the well’s magical history with him, setting the stage for a story of murder, lost eroticism, and revenge.

Popular on Variety

“I am thrilled to be working with Bankside for the first time,” said Jordan. “I’ve never made a film of one of my novels before. This one demanded it, and I am thrilled to have Jeremy and Helena on board to explore this world of lost love and twisted legend.”

“The Well of Saint Nobody” will be a Turbine Studios / Four Provinces Films Production, produced by BAFTA winner Andrew Eaton of Turbine Studios (“The Crown,” “Rush”) and Oscar nominee and BAFTA nominee Redmond Morris of Four Provinces Films (“The Dig,” “The Rhythm Section”). Bankside Films are handling worldwide sales. CAA will be co-repping North American rights. 

“I’m excited to be working with Neil, especially in adapting one of his own novels and with such a great cast,” said Eaton. “We are delighted to be partnering with the fantastic team at Bankside.”

Added Stephen Kelliher of Bankside Films: “We are thrilled to be working with Neil Jordan, a legendary filmmaker whose work we have long admired. Together with his wonderful cast, he will bring this magical story of love and revenge brilliantly to life.”