Charles Melton, Lucy Liu & Lulu Wang Team On ‘Audition’ At Laika
In an exciting development for film enthusiasts, Higher Ground Productions, the company founded by Barack and Michelle Obama, is collaborating with LAIKA to create a live-action feature adaptation of Audition, a gripping novel by Katie Kitamura that was longlisted for the Booker Prize. This adaptation brings together notable talents, including Lucy Liu, known for her powerful performances in Kill Bill and Charlie’s Angels, and rising star Charles Melton, celebrated for his compelling work in May December. The film will be directed by Lulu Wang, recognized for her critically acclaimed work on The Farewell.
The Story Behind Audition
Published recently by Riverhead Books, Audition is a complex thriller that explores themes of identity and the masks we wear in life. The narrative centers on a celebrated actress living a seemingly perfect bohemian life in Manhattan with her artistic husband. However, their world is turned upside down when a mysterious young man appears, claiming to be her long-lost son. This premise sets the stage for an intricate exploration of familial bonds, guilt, and the personas we create, making it a fitting choice for a cinematic adaptation.
Notably, Barack Obama included Audition in his 2025 Summer reading list, praising it as a “quiet novel about the ways we hide our true selves from others – and ourselves.” This endorsement not only highlights the literary significance of Kitamura’s work but also raises expectations for the film adaptation.
The Creative Team
Lulu Wang, who will direct and co-write the screenplay alongside Pulitzer Prize-winning playwright Martyna Majok, is an exciting addition to the project. Wang gained prominence for her work on The Farewell, which beautifully illustrated the complexity of family dynamics and cultural identity. Her talents bring depth to the adaptation of Audition, ensuring that the emotional layers of the story are preserved.
Producing the film are Vinnie Malhotra and Anikah McLaren for Higher Ground, along with Travis Knight and Matt Levin from LAIKA, which is renowned for its stop-motion animation work and Oscar-nominated films. Lucy Liu and Kitamura will also serve as executive producers, further enhancing the film’s potential for quality.
Cast Highlights
Lucy Liu
Lucy Liu is celebrated for her diverse roles across film and television. With accolades that include appearances in blockbusters like Chicago and festival favorites such as Rosemead, her artistic range is well-recognized. Liu’s recent project, Rosemead, garnered significant acclaim at the Tribeca Festival, where she was honored with the Rising To The Challenge Award. Her involvement in Audition adds weight and star power, promising a performance that will resonate with audiences.
Charles Melton
Charles Melton has rapidly ascended in the film industry, most notably for his compelling performance alongside Natalie Portman and Julianne Moore in May December, which earned him multiple accolades. His recent projects, including Beef on Netflix and the eagerly anticipated My Own Private Hell, further showcase his versatility as an actor. With Audition, Melton is set to explore complex emotional territory, making his role a significant contribution to the film’s narrative complexity.
LAIKA’s Animation Legacy
LAIKA is known for its innovative approach to stop-motion animation, creating critically acclaimed films like Coraline and Kubo and the Two Strings. Despite its strong roots in animation, the studio’s foray into live-action projects signifies an exciting evolution in its storytelling capabilities. With Audition, LAIKA aims to merge its artistic sensibilities with a gripping narrative, paving the way for a fresh take on the live-action genre.
In addition to the adaptation of Audition, LAIKA is currently working on multiple animated projects, including Wildwood and adaptations of notable literary works. This commitment to diverse storytelling enriches the cinematic landscape and broadens the audience’s experience.
Industry Context and Future Prospects
Higher Ground has established itself as a significant player in the film industry since the release of its Oscar-winning documentary American Factory. The collaboration with LAIKA on Audition reflects a growing trend in Hollywood, where prominent figures are leveraging their influence to create projects centered around compelling narratives and social themes. The partnership is a perfect blend of ambition and creativity, aiming to produce a film that is not only entertaining but also thought-provoking.
The film’s anticipated release is expected to attract a wide audience due to the substantial backing of Higher Ground and the proven track record of its cast and crew. As the adaptation of Audition progresses, audiences can expect not only high-quality production values but also a story that challenges societal norms and encourages introspection.
Conclusion
The team-up of Charles Melton, Lucy Liu, and Lulu Wang in the adaptation of Audition at LAIKA represents an exciting leap into a gripping narrative that merges drama with thematic depth. As the film navigates the complexities of identity and personal relationships, it promises to deliver a thought-provoking experience for viewers. With the rich storytelling traditions of both Higher Ground and LAIKA behind it, Audition is poised to make a significant impact in both the literary and cinematic worlds.
As we await further updates on this project, it’s clear that the collaboration is a testament to the power of storytelling and the importance of diverse voices in filmmaking. The film industry continues to evolve, and Audition stands at the forefront of this new wave of creativity and innovation.
