UK production outfit launches with 'Nickolai of the North'

Fledgling UK production outfit Gate House Entertainment has acquired rights to Lucy Daniel Raby’s children’s novel, Nickolai of the North.

London-based Gate House comprises former props expert James Enright and former film and TV coordinator Peter Boothby – both company founders - and former Works International sales executive Naomi Weiner, who will serve as development executive.

Nickolai of the North follows the adventures of Nickolai, the last surviving elf, raised by humans in a remote Scandinavian settlement, as he journeys North to uncover the fate of his people and save the world.

Gate House Entertainment acquired the rights to the novel in late 2014 and has set former Broadcast Hotshot Scott Payne (Hollyoaks) – repped by Linda Seifert Management – to adapt the story.

The film will be developed by Enright, Boothby and Weiner. 

“The project was introduced to us by Naomi, who had been a long-time fan of the series,” said Boothby. “What stood out to James and I, was the immediate strength of the premise and the potential for truly authentic imagery: the landscapes, the mythology, the faces of real cultures rarely seen on screen.”

Propshop founder Enright has previously worked on a string of blockbusters including Marvel’s Thor: The Dark World, Guardians Of The Galaxy and the James Bond franchise.

Boothby has worked on TV series including The Royals as assistant coordinator and feature Maleficent as production assistant.

At The Works International, Weiner worked on titles including Swung, Countdown To Zero and Kelly + Victor.