First published in 1896,The Island of Dr. Moreauis widely regarded as a seminal work of science fiction literature by English writer H.G. Wells. The novel was first adapted for the big screen in 1932 asIsland of Lost Souls, once more in 1977 with Burt Lancaster, and again in 1996 in a version that starred Val Kilmer and Marlon Brando that remains controversial to this day, mainly due to its conflict between the two. Now,Sir Anthony Hopkinsis set to helm yet another adaptation of the classic novel, this time in a version titledEyes in the Trees.
As perDeadline, Hopkins, who is recognized for his roles as Hannibal Lecter inSilence of the Lambs, and Odin in the MCU, will take on the part of Dr. Moreau, a brilliant geneticist who isolates himself after his government funding is cut off when an experiment goes haywire. When two documentary filmmakers embark on a quest for discovery, they soon find their journey turned into a fight for survival thanks to Moreau’s mad mutations. The movie marks Hopkins' 95th feature film appearance.
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Eyes in the Treeswill be directed by Timothy Woodward Jr. (Til Death Do Us Part,The Call), with a script by B. Harrison Smith (A Wonderful Time of Year,Where the Scary Things Are) and Mike Manning (Seven Perfect Strangers). Artisha Mann-Cooper (Tripped Up) is set to produce the film, alongside Daemon Hillin (Which Brings Me to You), and Sasha Yelaun (Nandor Fodor and the Talking Mongoose). There’s no word yet on additional casting, or when the movie might head into production.
Anthony Hopkins Shows No Signs of Slowing Down
Hopkins, who recently turned 86-years-old, has hadan illustrious career in Hollywoodspanning more than six decades. An avid lover of the theater, he’s also appeared in more than 20 stage plays over the course of his life, beginning with Julius Caesar in 1964. His accolades include two Academy Awards, four BAFTA Awards, and two Primetime Emmy Awards.
While one would think that an actor of such caliber would tend to take it easy later in life to enjoy the fruits of his labor, Hopkinsshows no signs of slowing down at this point. He recently appeared in Zack Snyder’sRebel Moonas the voice of Jimmy,Freud’s Last Session, andOne Life(both in 2023). His recent television credits includeWestworld(2016-2018),King Lear(2018), andMythic Quest(2021).
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Aside fromEyes in the Trees, Anthony Hopkins is set to star in a few more upcoming projects, including the sword-and-sandal TV seriesThose About to Die, which follows a group of gladiators in ancient Rome, and the filmLocked, where he co-stars with Bill Skarsgård in a movie about a thief who breaks into a luxury SUV, only to find himself in an elaborate and sophisticated trap.
Fans of the Welsh actor can hear him reprise the role of Jimmy once more whenSnyder’sRebel Moon - Part 2: The Scaregiverhits Netflix on June 27, 2025.
