The long-awaited big screen remake of Swallows and Amazons is currently eyeing a late May start to shooting.

The much-loved classic novel by Arthur Ransome was first published in 1930, the first of a series by the English author. The new feature version will once again be set in the Lake District, but a little later than the original book and 1974 film, which saw the narrative play out during the summer of 1929.  

Rafe Spall takes the pivotal role of Captain Flint in the film, which comes from producer Nick Barton of Harbour Pictures Productions and BBC Films. Philippa Lowthorpe (Cider with Rosie, Jamaica Inn, Call the Midwife) directs from a screenplay by Andrea Gibb  

Further details listed on Production Intelligence include a second producer, casting director, location manager, line producer, production co-ordinator, production designer and shoot dates.

It’s a big year for BBC Films, as they celebrate their 25th anniversary with a diverse slate of features from David Brent to David Copperfield. More on BBC Films’ upcoming projects can be found on Production Intelligence; for a demo, click here.