Mark Rylance has been cast in the title role of Steven Spielberg's forthcoming film version of Roald Dahl's The BFG.
The classic children's novel, about the adventures of a big friendly giant, has sold millions of copies around the world in more than 30 languages.
Rylance, who is due to be seen soon on TV playing Thomas Cromwell in the BBC's version of Hilary Mantel's award-winning novels, is a renowned stage actor and was artistic director of Shakespeare's Globe for many years.
Spielberg told the Hollywood Reporter: "As I witnessed on stage, Mark Rylance is a transformational actor.
"I am excited and thrilled that Mark will be making this journey with us to Giant Country. Everything about his career so far is about making the courageous choice and I'm honoured he has chosen The BFG as his next big screen performance."
Production is due to start next year with the film planned to be in cinemas in 2016.
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