Tony-winning director Matthew Warchus (God of Carnage, Matilda: The Musical, Art) has signed on to direct a remake of the classic 1968 film Chitty Chitty Bang Bang, which was based on a story by Ian Fleming.
Tony-winning playwright Enda Walsh (Once, Sing Street), Deadline also reports, has penned the screenplay for the new film from Amazon MGM Studios and EON Productions. No casting or timeline has been announced for the developing project.
Ken Hughes directed the original family-friendly musical film, which follows absent-minded inventor Caractacus Potts, who
restores a broken-down racing car with the help of his children. Soon
the family discover the car has magical powers, and along with the
delectable Truly Scrumptious, they end up on a fantastical adventure to
far-off lands.
Dick Van Dyke and Sally Ann Howes co-starred in the film, which featured songs by Richard M. Sherman and Robert B. Sherman. The title song was nominated for a 1969 Academy Award for Best Original Song.
A stage musical adaptation by Jeremy Sams arrived on Broadway following a London world premiere. Directed by Adrian Noble, Chitty Chitty Bang Bang played Broadway's Hilton Theatre (now the Lyric) March 2005-December 2005. The production was nominated for five Tony Awards.