'Gladiator' screenwriter heads to '1066'
Franck Tabouring
William Nicholson is set to write Shine Pictures' "1066," about the confrontation between King Harold and William the Conqueror that eventually led to the battle of Hastings.
Variety says "Nicholson's script will focus on the comradeship-turned-deadly rivalry between England's King Harold and William."
William's triumph in the battle and the following Norman takeover of England brought an end to the Dark Ages in Blighty.
A director and lead actors have not been announced yet, but the trade says Shine may already be talking to some big stars. New Regency and Fox are backing the project.
Nicholson most recently co-wrote "Elizabeth: The Golden Age." In 1997, he made his directorial debut with "Firelight," starring Sophie Marceau and Stephen Dillane.
The screenwriter also got nominated for two Oscars: in 2001 for "Gladiator" and in 1994 for "Shadowlands."
Reader Comments (1)
Far from being in the Dark Ages in 1066, England was sophisticated, efficiently run and culurally rich
Kingdom. It also had a strong sense of identity and was extremely wealthy - and very attractive to
potential invaders.
And, unlike Normandy, there were beginnings of democracy, especially at the local level and there was
a generosity of spirit.