Disney is looking to get production kicked off on their live-action 101 Dalmatians prequel tentatively titled Cruella, starring Emma Stone in the title role. Back in August, I reported over on The DisInsider, that the studio was looking at people of color for roles in the film. Now, we have learned that is indeed the case still.

According to a trusted source, the studio is interested in Slumdog Millionaire star Dev Patel. It is unclear have talks between Patel and Disney have begun, but he is high on their list.

If Patel signs he would take on the role of “Raj” aka Roger. Fans of the animated 101 Dalmatians and the 90’s live-action remake, know Roger as the owner of Pongo, who helps Roger meet and fall in love with his wife Anita.

Other classic characters from 101 Dalmatians expected to appear in the film include Cruella’s bumbling henchmen Jasper and Horace, and we hear the studio is looking for an African American actor for the role of Jasper.

Last month it was revealed that Aquaman star Nicole Kidman is Disney’s top choice for the role of the “Baroness,” an antagonist to Cruella who’s thought to be pivotal in her transformation to the villain we know today. Though Kidman appears to be the favorite, the outlet also states she isn’t the only big name who’s still in this race, with Emma Thompson, Charlize Theron, Julianne Moore, and Demi Moore all believed to be in the running for the role.

Production on the project is expected to begin this summer. I, Tonya director Craig Gillespie will helm the project from a script from Tony McNamara (The Favorite). The script is still being worked on.

Here is a mini-synopsis on the film.

Estella (Cruella De Vil) lives on the streets of 1970’s London with other hoodlums, where we learn the real origins behind Estella’s hatred of Dalmatians. Production on the film is expected to begin at the end of the year but as of right now, there is no release date set for Cruella.

The studio was hoping to lock down a 2020 release it has not been confirmed if that has changed as of yet.

Source: HN Entertainment