WillSharpe, who wrote and starred in the C4 comedy Flowers is to direct and co-write a feature film starring Benedict Cumberbatch And Claire Foy.

Principal photography will commence on Louis Wain in mid-August 2019 shooting in London. The film also stars Andrea Riseborough (Birdman) and Toby Jones (Tinker Tailor Soldier Spy).

 Directed by BAFTA nominated Will Sharpe (Channel 4’s critically acclaimed Flowers) and written by Sharpe & Simon Stephenson. Producing are Guy Heeley (Locke, Denial) and Adam Ackland (Patrick Melrose) with Ed Clarke & Leah Clarke. 

Louis Wain in the extraordinary true story of a brilliant man inspired by both his love of the world and the love of his life Emily played by Claire Foy. Famous for his distinctive paintings of cats that inspired hearts and minds around the world, Louis Wain is a loveable inspirational hero with a courageous and infectious spirit, who saw the world in a unique and delightful way throughout his long life full of adventure, continually inspiring people to do the same.  

Benedict Cumberbatch said “I am thrilled by the prospect of playing the courageous, playful spirit that is Louis Wain and to be producing such a special film. I have admired Will’s work for several years through Flowers and from the moment we first met, knew he was the perfect person to bring Louis’ inspirational and odyssean story to life. Together we plan to bring audiences a sincerely uplifting, playful, thought provoking tale of resilience, creativity and the enduring power of love”.

Will Sharpe said "I feel very excited to be working on this story about the little known but unique and inspiring Louis Wain. Benedict, Claire, Andrea, Toby - it’s a dream cast and we have a fantastic team behind the camera too. It’s going to be a real pleasure to build this world with such a wonderful group of people".