James McAvoy's gnome role

21-08-2008 13:30

James McAvoy and Emily Blunt are to voice characters in an animated Shakespeare spin-off.The 'Atonement' star and 'The Devil Wears Prada' actress will provide the voices for the lead characters in 'Gnomeo and Juliet', a CGI-animated joint venture between Miramax and Elton John's Rocket Pictures. They will play two lovers from rival gardens in a "loose and edgy" plot based on the Bard's 'Romeo and Juliet'.Producers Elton John, David Furnish, Baker Bloodworth and Steve Hamilton Shaw are apparently looking for other big name stars to fill the supporting roles. However, it will not feature Kate Winslet - who had to pull out due to scheduling conflicts - or music by Tim Rice as has been previously rumoured. Instead, it is expected that the soundtrack will draw heavily from 'Your Song' singer Elton's back catalogue, as well as a few new songs.'Gnomeo and Juliet' is currently scheduled for release in 2010.