Colin Firth, Gemma Arterton to star in period drama Curtain Call

British stars Colin Firth and Gemma Arterton are teaming up for Curtain Call, a period drama set in 1930s London.

It also stars veteran actor Simon Russell Beale, known for The Death of Stalin and Mary Queen of Scots and Paapa Essiedu of I May Destroy You fame.

The film is based on Anthony Quinn's novel of the same name, which revolves around a feared theatre critic named Jimmy Erskine (Beale), his loyal assistant, a newspaper owner who wants to get rid of the critic, and an actress who has been devastated by damaging theatrical reviews. The critic's determination to survive ensures that the other characters are caught in a web of blackmail, deceit, and murder.

Anand Tucker, who has credits like Leap Year (2010) and the 2015 drama series Indian Summers, is attached to direct the film. Patrick Marber adapted the script. Curtain Call will be produced by Mark Gordon Pictures and Jolyon Symonds under his Fearless Minds banner.

Sony Pictures International Productions will co-produce and distribute the film in the UK, Australia, Ireland, and New Zealand.