The new film adaptation of the famous opera Carmen is set to hit cinemas this spring.
The movie was teased online with a trailer this week and shows West End star Paul Mescal in the lead role of Aidan alongside Scream VI actress Melissa Barrera, who will play Carmen.
Directed by Benjamin Millepied, best known for Black Swan, the movie is a modern-day adaptation of the classic opera, with parts taking the form of a musical.
The story moves the original opera’s setting to the Southern States of the UK, and follows the young and fiercely independent woman Carmen, who has been forced to flee her Mexican home after the brutal murder of her mum.
Carmen survives a dangerous illegal border crossing into the States after two other immigrants with her are brutally murdered in front of her by a volunteer border guard.
When the border guard and his patrol partner Aidan (Paul Mescal) - a Marine with PTSD - become embroiled in a standoff, Carmen and Aidan are forced to flee together.
They make their way towards Los Angeles to find Carmen’s mother’s best friend, who runs a nightclub.
The tale tells the story of Carmen and Aidan, who fall in love while being hidden in the sanctuary of the club, while the police hunt continues for them both.
The film will also star the likes of Rossy de Palma, Benedict Hardie, Richard Brancatisano, and Elsa Pataky.
Director Millepied has previously said: “Carmen is the opera of my childhood. Growing up, it was an ever-present part of my musical beginnings. It has inspired me greatly as an artist. For many years, I have been passionate about creating a film musical and Carmen presents an incredibly exciting opportunity for exploring dance and music onscreen.”
Carmen will be released in the US this April, and it is believed to be opening in the UK the following month.
