Madonna Leads Animated Pic

Originally Published: December 21, 2004

The Hollywood Reporter recently reported that Madonna will lead the voice cast of the big-budget CGI pic Arthur, directed by Luc Besson, who’s previous work includes the original La Femme Nikita and The Professional. The director’s own comany, Europa Corp. will produce the movie.

Arthur is an adaptation of a series of children’s books written by Besson, who also wrote the screenplay for the movie. Ten-year-old Arthur, in a bid to save his grandfather’s house from developers, goes in search of treasure hidden in the land of the Minimoys, a tiny people living in harmony with nature.

The film, scheduled for a 2006 release, will include some live-action sequences. The 3-D animation is being crafted by French company Buf Compagnie.

Madonna will voice the part of Princess Selenia, and the film will be shot in English.

Europa is also currently producing the heist picture Revolver, starring Jason Statham and Ray Liotta. That film is being directed by Guy Ritchie, Madonna’s husband. The busy company is also shooting Bandidas in Mexico, starring Penelope Cruz and Salma Hayek.