After a recent switch-up with its leading ladies — in which Longlegs star Maika Monroe replaced The Substance’s Margaret Qualley — Victorian Psycho has found its male lead. Deadline reports that Jason Isaacs will be co-helming the Gothic film, which is currently being sold by Anton at Cannes
Isaacs will be playing Mr. Pounds, the stern owner of the estate on which Monroe’s eccentric governess Winifred works. He joins previously announced star Thomasin McKenzie and recent replacement Monroe in the psychological thriller directed by Zachary Wigon, about a young woman who, when she joins the staff of a remote, Gothic manor, raises concerns with the owners when staff members inexplicably begin to disappear. The film is written by Virginia Feito, based on her novel of the same name.
“Jason depicts the nuances of human psychology and behavior with enormous precision,” Wigon told Deadline. “I’m thrilled for him to be joining Victorian Psycho – it’ll be fascinating to watch him bring to life the enigmatic and mercurial owner of Ensor House, Mr. John Pounds.”
The announcement of Isaacs joining the cast comes after both Qualley and distributor A24 departed the project, though no reason was given for either leaving. Production is set to begin in August of this year, and no casting has been announced for who will play Mrs. Pounds, the stern matron of the manor, nor her children, who Winifred finds herself in charge of despite her lack of ability to care for them.
Victorian Psycho is produced by Dan Kagan, who reunites with Monroe after also producing Longlegs, as well as Wigon (in association with Anonymous Content) and Sébastien Raybaud. Feito, Nick Shumaker, and Bard Dorros will executive produce the film.
No release date has been set for Victorian Psycho, but stay tuned to FANGORIA for more updates.
