Rejoice or recoil: It looks as though the long-rumoured film adaptation of Martin Amis’ London Fields is viable again. Originally announced in 2001 with David Cronenberg directing, the project had been shelved as of 2006. But now, with Hallam Foe’s David Mackenzie slated as the new director, the possibility of the film seeing the light of day is once again alive.
The script for the film has long since been completed by Amis and Roberta Hanley. Set in a London on the verge of nuclear Doomsday, with the city having deteriorated physically and morally, the dark comedy follows self-styled murderee Nicola Six and the men she manipulates.
Despite its title referencing the Hackney park, the story largely takes place in west London, particularly in a pub on Portobello Road. At any rate, this should effectively dispel any romantic notions that other movie about Notting Hill put into people’s minds.
Photo of Martin Amis courtesty of Javier A's Flickrstream.
