Joey King’s Dystopian Thriller ‘Uglies’ Set to Captivate Netflix Audiences in September 2024
Joey King’s highly anticipated role in Netflix’s Uglies brings a dystopian world to life. Set for a September 2024 release, this adaptation promises thrills and social commentary.
Netflix’s adaptation of Uglies by Scott Westerfeld, starring Joey King, is set to release in September 2024. Directed by McG, the movie explores a dystopian future where physical differences are erased through compulsory surgery. Joey King plays Tally Youngblood, a teen who must decide whether to conform or resist. With additional filming wrapped up earlier this year, this much-anticipated film promises to captivate Netflix audiences.
Netflix Gears Up for ‘Uglies’ Release Starring Joey King
After years of anticipation, Netflix is set to bring Scott Westerfeld’s Uglies to the small screen in September 2024. Directed by McG, known for Charlie’s Angels and Terminator Salvation, this latest Netflix adaptation stars Joey King, alongside a talented cast including Chase Stokes, Brianne Tju, and Keith Powers. McG’s collaboration with Netflix is nothing new, having directed The Babysitter and Family Switch.
The screenplay for Uglies is helmed by Emmy-nominated writers Krista Vernoff and Vanessa Taylor. Their past work on hit series like Grey’s Anatomy and films such as The Shape of Water has set high expectations for this Netflix original.
Joey King: A Long-time Fan Turned Lead
Joey King, who plays the lead role of Tally Youngblood, has had a deep connection with Uglies long before she stepped onto the set. King, a passionate fan of Westerfeld’s novel, played a pivotal role in bringing the series to Netflix. Her dedication saw her pitching the series to the streaming giant and securing the option for adaptation. Since signing a first-look deal with Netflix in 2021 under her production company, All The King’s Horses, King has been building excitement for her long-anticipated role.
Plot Overview: A World Without Differences
Set in a future where a mandatory operation at age 16 transforms individuals into “pretties,” the story explores a society obsessed with physical perfection. Tally Youngblood, on the verge of her own transformation, faces a dilemma when her friend Shay rebels against the system. Forced to choose between turning in her friend or staying “ugly” forever, Tally embarks on a journey that changes her perception of the world.
As Netflix gears up for its release, fans of the novel will be eager to see how the dystopian universe translates on screen.
The Cast and Production Updates
Alongside King, viewers will recognize Brianne Tju from Amazon’s I Know What You Did Last Summer and Chase Stokes from Outer Banks. Keith Powers, known for The Tomorrow War, also joins the cast in undisclosed roles. The movie’s production, which began in October 2021, wrapped up ahead of schedule by December of the same year.
King herself shared her excitement on social media, posting an emotional update with the caption, “See you in Uglyville folks.” Meanwhile, author Scott Westerfeld confirmed the wrap but noted that post-production, including visual effects and music, would continue.
A Story in the Making for Years
Uglies has been in development for years, initially under Fox before finding its home with Netflix in 2020. Despite delays caused by strikes, the film is now nearing completion. According to McG, the movie is “really exciting” and promises to be Netflix’s answer to The Hunger Games. He also praised Joey King’s performance, calling her a “courageous little rebel” and hinted at stunning visuals and world-building that will captivate audiences.
Additional filming took place in early 2024, ensuring the movie’s release would meet fans’ high expectations. Scott Westerfeld also teased updates throughout the production process, keeping the excitement alive for what is set to be one of Netflix’s standout releases of the year.
A Dystopian Saga Ready to Impress
With its PG-13 rating for some violence and action, Uglies promises to entertain both fans of the book series and newcomers alike. Clocking in at 1 hour and 40 minutes, it strikes the balance between a thrilling adventure and thought-provoking commentary on beauty and conformity.
Netflix isn’t stopping with Uglies. The streaming service is also set to adapt another of Westerfeld’s works, Leviathan, scheduled for release in 2025, proving that the author’s imaginative worlds continue to resonate with modern audiences.
(Disclaimer: This article is for informational purposes only, based on public sources available at the time of writing. Release dates, cast details, and production status may be subject to change.)
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