DreamWorks Animation to adapt Yarlett's Orion and the Dark 

DreamWorks Animation will adapt Emma Yarlett’s picture book Orion and the Dark (Templar Books) into a film for release on Netflix in 2024.  

It will be directed by Sean Charmatz, with the script written by Charlie Kaufman and produced by Peter McCown, with executive producers Walt Dohrn and Bonnie Arnold. Jacob Tremblay will voice “Orion” and Paul Walter Hauser will voice “Dark”.

Orion and the Dark follows a young boy called Orion who is scared of lots of things, but nothing is quite as scary as the dark. Until, one scary bedtime, he meets a new friend – Dark. Orion and Dark set off on a huge adventure that helps Orion to realise that the dark isn’t so scary after all and is actually quite fun!

Yarlett said: “Twelve years ago, a boy called Orion and his nemesis ‘Dark’ first appeared in the pages of my sketchbook. They’ve been on quite a journey since then, but it’s been incredible to watch them take on a fresh new life with the immensely talented team at DreamWorks. I cannot wait for everyone to see the magic they’ve brought to this story.” 

Helen Wicks, managing director of Children’s Trade at Bonnier Books UK, said: “Tackling universal themes of fear and unsung bravery with delicious humour, relatability and imagination, Orion and the Dark is a very special book. We could not be more excited for the team at DreamWorks to explore Emma’s dazzling world, and for audiences to join Orion and Dark on the adventure of a lifetime.”

Amelia Warren, commissioning editor of picture books for Templar, said: “We’re delighted with the announcement and upcoming film release. Emma’s storytelling taps into relatable experiences for both children and adults, and we can’t wait to see her lovable characters have a new life on the big screen.”

Rebecca Nash, licensing manager for Templar Books, added: “I am absolutely thrilled that this has finally come to fruition. DreamWorks have done an outstanding job and I know that fans of the original book will truly love it!”