Picture Tree International GmbH
Clara Van Gool
Hanneke Niens, Hans de Wolf
Clara Van Gool, Glyn Maxwell
Sarah Reynolds, Dane Jeremy Hurst, Claire Johnston
THE BEAST IN THE JUNGLE is a film adaptation of Henry James’ 19th century novella of the same name. Set in a remote English country mansion and stretching from the Jamesian era to a globalised present-day setting, the film uses dance to recount the epic and unconventional love story of John Marcher (Dane Jeremy Hurst) and May Bartram (Sarah Reynolds). During a chance encounter ten years after first meeting, May reminds John that he once revealed to her a deep and menacing conviction that his life would be defined by a life-changing experience – one that was waiting for him “like a Beast in the Jungle.” Intrigued by his continued belief in this foreboding secret, May decides to stay by John’s side and soon develops feelings of genuine love for him. John is not able to reciprocate her devotion, preferring instead to resume his shallow life as a travelling businessman. Only when it’s too late, does John realize that the beast had already sprung in the jungle of his life.
2018