Principal photography for Emma Holly Jones’ debut feature has started recently in Ireland. The period drama, entitled Mr. Malcolm’s List, is based on the novel of the same name written by Suzanne Allain, who also penned the script.

The story is set in London in 1818 and follows Julia (Zawe Ashton), a society lady jilted by the city’s most eligible bachelor, Mr Malcolm (Ṣọpẹ́ Dirisu), when she fails to meet one of the items on his list of requirements for a bride. Feeling shunned and humiliated, she enlists her friend Selina (Freida Pinto) to help her take revenge on Mr Malcolm by tricking him into thinking he has found his perfect match. The plan appears to be working when Henry (Theo James) threatens Julia’s scheme by courting Selina as well. After the bumbling Lord Cassidy (Oliver Jackson-Cohen) begins meddling in the foursome’s affairs, the course of true love, which never does run smooth, becomes rocky, indeed. Mr Malcolm wonders whether he’s found the perfect woman or the perfect hoax. The cast is rounded off by Ashley Park, who will play the role of Gertie.

Mr. Malcolm’s List is being produced by Laura Rister for Untitled Entertainment (USA), Laura Lewis for Rebelle Media (USA), Katie Holly and the helmer herself for Blinder Films (Ireland), with backing from Ingenious Group and Screen Ireland. Universal Pictures Content Group has acquired the majority of the international rights, excluding France. The US rights are currently held by Bleecker Street, whilst the Canadian ones have been sold to LevelFILM.