Ryan Reynolds is stepping into unfamiliar territory, portraying the villain in Netflix’s live-action “Eloise.” The adaptation brings Kay Thompson and Hilary Knight’s classic 1950s books to life with a modern, original storyline.
Joining Reynolds is Mae Schenck, a rising talent who takes on the role of Eloise, injecting new energy into the story while keeping the beloved character’s spirit intact.
A Classic Reimagined
Netflix calls the movie a “completely original adventure inspired by the beloved book series.” It follows the playful, curious six-year-old Eloise at the iconic Plaza Hotel in New York City, blending the humor, heart, and imagination of the original with a fresh narrative created for modern audiences.
Directing and co-writing the project is Amy Sherman-Palladino (Gilmore Girls, The Marvelous Mrs. Maisel), alongside Hannah Marks and Linda Woolverton. The team aims to deliver a film that preserves Eloise’s charm while charting fresh creative territory.
Ryan Reynolds’ Surprising Role
Reynolds, 49, who was last seen in “Deadpool & Wolverine (2024),” is set to play an original villain created specifically for this film. While details about his character are still under wraps, his involvement hints at a blend of wit and intensity — qualities Reynolds has mastered throughout his career.
He’s also stepping behind the camera as a producer, helping bring this reimagined story to life. Production is expected to begin this month, marking his return to family-friendly storytelling with Netflix after his recent documentary project “John Candy: I Like Me.”
The Return of Eloise
Originally written by Kay Thompson and illustrated by Hilary Knight, the “Eloise” books have captivated readers since the 1950s. The series follows Eloise, a spirited young girl living at The Plaza Hotel, alongside her Nanny, her pug Weenie, and her turtle Skipperdee.
The original series includes four classic titles:
1. Eloise: A Book for Precocious Grown-Ups
2. Eloise in Paris
3. Eloise at Christmastime
4. Eloise in Moscow
A fifth installment, “Eloise Takes a Bawth,” was published posthumously in 2002. Together, these stories have become a cultural staple, beloved for their humor, independence, and distinct New York charm.
Netflix’s Vision for the Adaptation
According to Hannah Minghella, Netflix’s Head of Feature Animation and Family Films, “Eloise has been beloved for generations, from when she was first published in the 1950s through to today, when no family trip to New York City is complete without a stop at The Plaza.”
Minghella also praised the creative duo behind the project: “It’s an honor to reintroduce this cherished character to the world with two people who share her signature mischief and charm—Amy Sherman-Palladino and Ryan Reynolds—in this bold, hilarious, and heartfelt new family film.”
Cast and Crew Highlights
While Mae Schenck makes her big-screen debut as Eloise, the supporting cast is yet to be announced. The pairing of a fresh young talent with a globally recognized actor like Reynolds positions the film to attract both nostalgic fans and new audiences.
Behind the scenes, Sherman-Palladino’s involvement signals a mix of clever humor and warmth. Combined with Woolverton’s writing experience on classics like “Beauty and the Beast” and “The Lion King,” the adaptation is shaping up to deliver a story rich with emotion and personality.
The Excitement Around “Eloise”
Filming for “Eloise” begins this month, though Netflix has yet to confirm a release date. The adaptation pays homage to the original books while introducing Eloise’s world to a new generation through a lively and modern perspective.
With Ryan Reynolds taking on an unexpected villain role and Amy Sherman-Palladino leading the creative vision, the film is shaping up to be a fresh and entertaining addition to Netflix’s family lineup.
Audiences can expect a story filled with heart, humor, and the signature mischief that made “Eloise” a timeless favorite.
