From the post-apocalyptic world of The Last of Us to the lavish courts of 17th-century England, Bella Ramsey is set to make a roaring entrance in their latest project, Monstrous Beauty. Deadline has announced that the star of The Last of Us will take the lead in the period drama, which blends historical and fictional elements to tell a captivating tale. Joining Ramsey are an ensemble cast, including Dominic West (The Crown), Ruth Negga (Passing), and Fiona Shaw (Killing Eve).
Romola Garai, an accomplished actress known for her roles in Atonement, Vanity Fair, The Hour, and Becoming Elizabeth, is set to direct the film. With her rich background in period pieces, Garai is poised to bring a unique touch to Monstrous Beauty, which marks her second directorial effort after the 2020 horror flick Amulet.
A story about opportunity and creativity, the period drama will take place in the 17th Century and tell the story of Barbara Field (Ramsey), a peasant girl born with a rare condition that leaves her covered in hair. Unlike many other children of her status, Barbara is properly educated and, because of this, luck finds her holding a spot on the court of King Charles II (West) as a “Natural Wonder.” Meeting others with out-of-the-ordinary appearances, Barbara strives to be seen beyond her looks and instead for her talent as a playwright. In the court, she meets famous actress Nell Gwyn (Negga), a mistress of the King’s, who wants to prove to Charles that there’s more to a person than their appearance. Using her new connections, Barbara gets the help of famed playwright Aphra Behn (Shaw) to help her stage a play to shift the views of the public.
