Brand to star in St Trinian's revival

Ealing Studios is to revive the St Trinian’s film comedies – with Russell Brand lined up to star in the first one.

Brand will play Flash Harry, the rakish small-time crook who helps the schoolgirls get into scrapes. Minder star George Cole played Flash Harry in the original Fifties film series.

The star-studded new film also boasts Emily Watson, Rupert Everett and Colin Firth in the cast. Watson will play the central teacher in the new version, while Everett takes the role of the cross-dressing headmistress and her unprincipled brother, both played by Alistair Sim in the originals.

Richard E Grant and Stephen Fry will make a cameo appearances, Hollywood trade paper Variety reports

The movie – which has a new script rather than being a remake - will be co-directed by Barnaby Thompson, the head of Ealing Studios, and his collaborator Oliver Parker. Production is due to begin on March 26.

The original franchise began in 1954 with The Bells of St. Trinian’s, and was followed by three sequels. A previous revival was attempted in 1980, with The Wildcats of St. Trinians.

Published: 12 Mar 2007