Disney+ announced plans for a contemporary version of Black Beauty today.
The movie adapts Anna Sewell’s 19th century classic novel of the same name. The story follows Black Beauty, a wild mustang born free in the American west. When the horse is captured, her story intertwines with that of a 17-year-old girl, Jo Green. Experiencing mutual feelings of grief, the two slowly develop a bond built on love, respect, and mutual healing.
Academy Award winner Kate Winslet voices Black Beauty. Mackenzie Foy (Interstellar, The Conjuring) plays Jo Green. Game of Thrones alum Iain Glen and Claire Forlani (Meet Joe Black) round out the cast.
Ashley Avis (Adolescence) wrote the screenplay and serves as director. Constantin Film and JB Pictures produce the film.
Disney+ did not announce a specific release date. However, the streamer said the movie will hit the platform later this year.
Other Black Beauty Adaptations
Since the novel’s publishing in 1877, Black Beauty has been adapted for film over half a dozen times. The most recent – and possibly well-known – adaptation is the 1994 film from Warner Bros. In this story, Alan Cumming voices the title character. The 1994 film can be streamed now on HBO Max.
The COVID-19 Impact
While Disney+ has moved some theatrical releases straight to streaming, others remain in limbo. COVID-19 forced Disney+ to postpone many of its original films and series. Marvel’s The Falcon and the Winter Soldier, for instance, should have dropped next month. After production delays, that’s no longer possible.
Black Beauty wasn’t created by Disney originally. Rather, it marks an acquisition meant to bolster the streamer’s content during these difficult times. In addition to Black Beauty, Disney+ recently acquired feature film Clouds.
For more on the latest shows and films coming to Disney+, be sure to check back to That Hashtag Show.
