The Species: A Widow’s Struggle Between Faith and Legacy

Production Details

Title: The Species
Format: Feature Film
Production Begins: June 2026
Filming Location: Northern Ireland – Bristol, UK
Producer: Rich Bolger, Christian Taylor, Mary Aloe, Joshua Harris, Charlotte Dauphin, Tom Heller, Steve Alexander, Idylia
Writer:
Director: Justin Chadwick
Line Producer: Patrick O’Neill
Director of Photography: Adolpho Veloso
Cast: Charlotte Rampling, Anthony Hopkins, Tom Hollander, Billy Howle, Mia McKenna-Bruce
Casting Director: Eyde Belasco

Synopsis

The Species follows Emma Darwin (Rampling), recently widowed following the death of famed naturalist Charles Darwin (Hopkins), as she finds herself locked in a battle with her son George and pushy publisher Marshall Winwick (Hollander) over Charles’ autobiography. It presents a challenge to her faith: will the publication of her almost heretically atheist husband’s work jeopardize his safe passage to heaven and their chance to be reunited in the afterlife? McKenna-Bruce will play Jane, the family’s maid at the Darwin estate.

Production Company

Hail Mary Pictures
Otter House, Naas Road
Dublin, D22 Cr92
Ireland
Email: rich@hailmarypictures.com
Phone: +353 87 982 7794

About The Species

The Species centers on Emma Darwin, who grapples with the complexities of loss after her husband’s death. As she navigates her grief, she confronts conflicting interests within her family and the publishing world. The film reveals the tensions surrounding the release of Charles Darwin’s autobiography, highlighting the struggle between personal beliefs and the potential consequences of their disclosure. Emma’s journey is marked by her internal conflict regarding faith and the afterlife. She questions whether sharing her husband’s thoughts, particularly those that challenge religious norms, might impact his legacy. This narrative invites viewers to reflect on themes of faith, family loyalty, and the preservation of intellectual heritage amid societal expectations.

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