Josh Hartnett Boards Elle Fanning Biopic Moonsong: A Life In Seven Verses

Following his recent success in Below, actor Josh Hartnett joins Elle Fanning in Rebecca Miller's upcoming biographical film Moonsong: A Life In Seven Verses.

Published 3 November 2026

Josh Hartnett Joins Star-Studded Biopic

Actor Josh Hartnett has officially committed to his next major cinematic project following the triumphant breakout performance of his recent project Below. He is set to star alongside Elle Fanning in an eagerly anticipated biographical film that is already generating substantial industry excitement as it approaches its international sales launch.

The feature film is titled Moonsong: A Life In Seven Verses and centers on the life of Margaret Wise Brown, the celebrated author behind legendary children's literary classics.

Cast and Character Details

Elle Fanning steps into the central starring role to portray Margaret Wise Brown. Meanwhile, Josh Hartnett has been cast as "Big Bill" Gaston, a socialite who becomes involved in one of the author's passionate romantic affairs during the narrative.

The production has managed to gather an extraordinary ensemble of supporting talent. The impressive cast list features Emma Thompson, Sally Hawkins, Danny Huston, Robert Aramayo, and Chloe Pirrie all officially boarding the project.

Julianne Moore Joins the Ensemble

In addition to Fanning and Hartnett, acclaimed actress Julianne Moore has joined the movie's stellar lineup. Moore will essay the role of the poet Michael Strange.

Within the storyline, the character of Michael Strange exerts a mesmerizing yet ultimately destructive influence that actively shapes Brown's overarching artistic journey.

Setting and Creative Focus

The narrative is set against the backdrop of 1930s New York. During this era, Brown uncovers her unique gift for crafting children's stories and pioneers a revolutionary sensory approach to children's literature alongside a vibrant community of artists and educators.

Her existence oscillates between innocence and brazenness, defined by intense love affairs and a fierce determination to safeguard her own creative voice.

Direction and Source Material

Rebecca Miller takes the helm of the production, serving as both director and screenwriter. Miller adapted the screenplay directly from Leonard S. Marcus's biographical work titled Margaret Wise Brown: Awakened by the Moon.

Miller has publicly praised her subject as a profoundly modern individual, noting that Brown retained her childlike worldview while simultaneously turning into a massive publishing phenomenon who wrote over a hundred books.

Award-Winning Behind-the-Scenes Crew

The film's creative roster boasts heavy production credentials across multiple departments. Oscar nominee Jarin Blatchke is handling the cinematography, while Oscar-winning special effects artist Neal Scanlan oversees creature effects and puppetry.

Additionally, Oscar nominee Malgosia Turzanska is designing the costumes, Kim Jennings is leading the production design, and legendary filmmaker Martin Scorsese serves as an executive producer.

Production Timeline

The biographical feature is being produced by Round Films alongside producers Damon Cardasis and Rebecca Miller. According to reports via Deadline, actual physical production on the project is scheduled to begin in May 2027.

Industry experts anticipate further announcements regarding international distribution and additional casting as the filming window approaches.

News Overview

Josh Hartnett has joined Elle Fanning in the upcoming biographical film Moonsong: A Life In Seven Verses following the success of his work in Below. Directed by Rebecca Miller and featuring a star-studded supporting cast, the 1930s-set project is slated to begin production in May 2027.

Key facts

• Josh Hartnett stars in Below.
• Josh Hartnett joins Elle Fanning in Moonsong: A Life In Seven Verses.
• Rebecca Miller directs Moonsong: A Life In Seven Verses.
• Elle Fanning plays Margaret Wise Brown.
• Josh Hartnett plays Big Bill Gaston.
• Emma Thompson, Sally Hawkins, Danny Huston, Robert Aramayo, and Chloe Pirrie join the cast.
• Julianne Moore plays the poet Michael Strange.
• The story is set in 1930s New York.
• The screenplay is adapted from Leonard S. Marcus's biography Margaret Wise Brown: Awakened by the Moon.
• Margaret Wise Brown published over a hundred books.
• Jarin Blatchke is the cinematographer.
• Neal Scanlan oversees creature effects and puppetry.
• Malgosia Turzanska designs costumes.
• Kim Jennings leads production design.
• Martin Scorsese executive produces.
• Round Films, Damon Cardasis, and Rebecca Miller produce.
• Production begins in May 2027.