Paul W.S. Anderson Describes ‘In the Lost Lands’ as an R-Rated Fairy Tale with ‘Bone-Crunching Violence’

Paul W.S. Anderson, known for directing the Resident Evil film series and the cult classic sci-fi horror Event Horizon, is stepping into new territory with his latest project, In the Lost Lands. This fantasy-action film is adapted from a 1982 short story by Game of Thrones author George R.R. Martin.

Anderson described the film as an “adult fairy tale,” full of “bone-crunching violence” and “horrific surprises.” He explains that this movie is unlike anything he has done before, especially in terms of its look and tone. “It’s very different to anything I’ve done before,” Anderson says. “I really wanted to embrace the mythic fairy tale quality of it, so it’s an R-rated fairy tale, that’s for sure.”

The film, which will be featured in the latest issue of SFX Magazine, blends fantasy and action in a way Anderson believes will resonate with audiences. “The concept was just fabulous,” he says. “It has everything audiences like from George’s work. There are the dark, interesting characters, and the surprising narrative reversals. This was a chance to broaden out that Martin universe and give [audiences] a taste of something that was both a little familiar but also a little fresh.”

In In the Lost Lands, Milla Jovovich stars as Gray Alys, a witch on a dangerous journey, and Dave Bautista plays Boyce, a hunter. Together, they venture into a perilous world to find a mysterious artifact for a queen seeking happiness. The film features a strong supporting cast, including Arly Jover (known for her role in Blade) as Ash, Amara Okereke as Melange, Fraser James as Patriarch Johan, Simon Lööf as Jerais, and Deirdre Mullins as Mara.

The movie has an interesting production history. German filmmaker Constantin Werner acquired the rights to three of Martin’s short stories in 2015, with plans to turn them into a single film. Originally, the film was meant to star Milla Jovovich as Gray Alys and Justin Chatwin (famous for Shameless) as Boyce. However, in 2021, Paul W.S. Anderson took over as director, though Werner remained involved as co-writer and producer.

Anderson’s decision to take on this project marks a departure from his previous works in the Resident Evil franchise, but his enthusiasm for the story is clear. The film promises to blend dark fantasy with action and violence, offering a unique twist on classic fairy tale themes.

With In the Lost Lands, Anderson aims to captivate viewers with a fresh take on the fantasy genre, one that promises intense action and unexpected moments, all set against a backdrop of myth and magic. Fans of George R.R. Martin’s work and Anderson’s previous films are sure to find something to enjoy in this R-rated fairy tale adventure.

Have something to add? Let us know in the comments below!