Ryan Reynolds Turns Villain: Netflix’s ‘Eloise’ Begins Filming This November

Ryan Reynolds is trading his superhero suit for a villainous role! The Deadpool star is set to play the antagonist in Netflix’s live-action adaptation of the beloved children’s classic Eloise, with filming kicking off in November 2025. This marks an exciting new chapter for the cherished character who’s been delighting readers since the 1950s.

Everything You Need to Know About Netflix’s Eloise

Directed by Emmy-winning creator Amy Sherman-Palladino (Gilmore Girls), this family film brings Kay Thompson’s iconic character to life with a fresh, modern twist. The screenplay comes from talented writers Hannah Marks and Linda Woolverton, promising a perfect blend of nostalgia and contemporary storytelling.

Eloise: Production Overview

Meet the Stars: Reynolds as the Villain

For fans of Ryan Reynolds’ Netflix projects, this role represents something different. After headlining blockbusters like Red Notice and The Adam Project, Reynolds is embracing his darker side as the film’s antagonist. His production company, Maximum Effort, is also producing the film, showing his deep commitment to the project.

The real star, however, is newcomer Mae Schenk, who will make her acting debut as the spirited six-year-old Eloise. According to Variety’s report, when Sherman-Palladino introduced Mae to the team, they instantly knew she embodied the character’s spark, wit, and mischief.

What’s the Story About?

Set in New York City’s luxurious Plaza Hotel, the film follows Eloise—a precocious girl who lives there with her pug Weenie, turtle Skipperdee, and her patient nanny. Her days are filled with room service orders, grand hall explorations, and delightful chaos that charms everyone around her.

Hannah Minghella, Netflix’s head of feature animation and family film, emphasized the timeless appeal of this character, noting that no family trip to New York is complete without visiting The Plaza—Eloise’s iconic home.

Why This Adaptation Matters

The Eloise books have captivated generations with their celebration of childhood imagination and freedom. This adaptation promises to honor that legacy while introducing the character to modern audiences through:

• Award-winning direction from Gilmore Girls creator
• Star power with Reynolds’ proven Netflix track record
• Fresh perspective on a classic beloved story
• Family-friendly entertainment that appeals across age groups

For those who love family films and Netflix originals, this project combines nostalgia with contemporary filmmaking excellence.

Production Timeline and Release

Filming wraps by February 2026, positioning the film for a potential late 2026 release, though 2027 seems more likely considering post-production requirements. Netflix will announce the official date once production progresses.

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