Ncuti Gatwa Joins Forces with Cynthia Erivo in 'Bad Fairies' Animated Musical for 2027

Emerging talent Ncuti Gatwa, celebrated for his role in Sex Education and significant parts in Doctor Who and Barbie, adds another remarkable project to his roster. The gifted actor is set to co-star with Cynthia Erivo in Bad Fairies, a forthcoming animated musical comedy produced by Warner Bros. Pictures Animation and Locksmith Animation.

Currently under production in London, Bad Fairies marks the inaugural release from the newly established first-look agreement between Warner Bros. and Locksmith Animation. Scheduled for release on May 21, 2027, the film aims to offer a fresh, rebellious twist on classic fairy tales.

A Rising Star

Gatwa’s career has showcased his versatility, ranging from his acclaimed role as Eric Effiong in Sex Education to his sci-fi escapades in Doctor Who, and now as a voice actor in animation. At just 31, he has also received accolades for his stage performances in The Importance of Being Earnest and Born With Teeth. His pairing with Broadway sensation Cynthia Erivo in Bad Fairies marks another bold artistic endeavor.

What Awaits in Bad Fairies

This film reimagines conventional fairy tales, centering on a band of mischievous, rule-defying fairies who defy the conventions of their magical setting. Viewers can expect a "chaotic and charmingly subversive" musical adventure filled with humor and emotional depth.

Creative Minds Behind the Film

Directed by Megan Nicole Dong, known for her work on Centaurworld, and co-directed by veteran DreamWorks animator Olivier Staphylas, the film features a clever and poignant script penned by Deborah Frances-White.

Music plays a crucial role in the narrative. The soundtrack boasts songs from the Tony Award-winning team of Toby Marlow and Lucy Moss, the creators of Six: The Musical. Isabella “Machine” Summers from Florence + The Machine is composing the score and contributing to the soundtrack, while Ian Eisendrath, famed for KPop Demon Hunters, oversees music production.

Top-Tier Production Team

The film features an esteemed crew including producer Carolyn Soper, editor Sim Evan-Jones, and cinematographer James C.J. Williams. Character design is spearheaded by Uwe Heidschötter, and the narrative is shaped by Rikke Asbjoern and Chris Garbutt. Production design is managed by Justin Hutchinson-Chatburn and Mike Redman, with DNEG Animation, a premier London studio known for exceptional visual effects, handling digital animation.

A Bright New Chapter

This project signifies the initial theatrical release from the Warner Bros. and Locksmith Animation partnership. Merging Broadway talent, innovative animation, and a narrative that challenges fairy tale norms, Bad Fairies is poised to be an extraordinary film experience.

Represented by Curtis Brown, UTA, Status PR UK, and Ziffren Brittenham LLP, Ncuti Gatwa is cementing his reputation as a versatile and dynamic force in the entertainment sphere with this exciting new role.