Netflix’s Eloise: First Look at Mae Schenk as the Iconic Heroine, Ryan Reynolds as Villain in Amy Sherman-Palladino’s Plaza Hotel Adventure

Netflix just gave us our first glimpse of live-action “Eloise,” and Mae Schenk absolutely nails the iconic character in these stunning set photos from New York City. Filming is underway at the legendary Plaza Hotel, with Amy Sherman-Palladino (Gilmore Girls, The Marvelous Mrs. Maisel) directing this wholly original adventure based on Kay Thompson’s beloved 1950s children’s book series.

Eloise: Everything You Need to Know

Mae Schenk: A Perfect Cast as Eloise

First-time actress Mae Schenk looks like she stepped directly out of Hilary Knight’s original book illustrations. Set photos show her in full Eloise regalia—the signature white blouse, black pleated suspender skirt, red ribbon in her hair, and even pink checkered pajamas with heart-shaped sunglasses. This isn’t just costume accuracy; it’s character embodiment.

According to Maximum Effort’s co-presidents Ashley Fox and Johnny Pariseau: “When Amy introduced us to Mae Schenk, we knew instantly she was Eloise. She’s got the spark, the wit and just the right amount of mischief.”

The scenes filmed outside the iconic Plaza Hotel entrance show Schenk exiting a classic NYC yellow cab—perfectly capturing the mischievous energy of the character who’s lived her entire life in the “tippy-top floor” of this legendary hotel.

Ryan Reynolds as the Villain: A Bold Choice

Ryan Reynolds isn’t playing a supporting character—he’s portraying an original villainous character created specifically for this adaptation. While plot details remain under wraps, Reynolds’ involvement as both actor and producer (through his Maximum Effort banner) signals Netflix’s confidence in this project.

Reynolds’ dark sense of humor could provide unexpected depth to what is, at its core, a family film. It’s a casting choice that suggests Sherman-Palladino’s vision adds complexity to the source material.

Amy Sherman-Palladino Brings Her Magic to Children’s Classics

If anyone can balance heartfelt family entertainment with sharp, witty writing, it’s Amy Sherman-Palladino. The creator of two beloved TV series has brought the same rapid-fire dialogue and character-driven storytelling to this screenplay, co-written with Hannah Marks and Linda Woolverton (Beauty and the Beast).

M. David Mullen, the acclaimed cinematographer who worked extensively with Sherman-Palladino on The Marvelous Mrs. Maisel, is serving as Director of Photography. This creative continuity ensures “Eloise” will have the gorgeous, vibrant visual style fans expect.

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The Story: Mischief at the Plaza

Based on the original children’s books, Eloise follows the mischievous adventures of a spirited six-year-old girl who lives at the luxurious Plaza Hotel in New York City. With her pug Weenie, turtle Skipperdee, and her ever-patient nanny, Eloise fills her days with playful chaos—ordering room service, exploring the grand halls, and causing delightful trouble wherever she goes.

The film will be a wholly original adventure that honors Kay Thompson’s legacy while bringing fresh storytelling to contemporary audiences.

A Legacy Worth Celebrating

Eloise has been beloved for generations, from when she was first published in the 1950s through to today, when no family trip to New York City is complete without a stop at The Plaza. According to children’s literature on Wikipedia, classic characters endure because they capture timeless truths about childhood wonder and mischief—qualities the original Eloise embodied perfectly.

The supporting cast is stellar: Sally Hawkins, Victor Garber, David Haig, Max Casella, and young Isaac Bae (Unfrosted). This ensemble suggests a film that takes both humor and heart seriously.

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