The Woman in Black Production Dossier

The Woman in Black is a novel written by Susan Hill and was published in 1982. It has subsequently been adapted into a play, radio series, TV movie and ultimately a feature length film.

In 1997, the project was initially commenced by Richard Jackson producer of Talisman Films. Various screenwriters attempted to adapt Susan Hill's novel but fell short of expectations. The catalyst who rejuvenated life into the production was essentially Simon Oakes, Producer and President and CEO of Hammer, when attending a meeting with Jackson he endeavoured to revitalise the historical Hammer brand. Oakes recognised the potential of such a project and Hammer subsequently optioned the film rights to produce in conjunction with Talisman Films.

Adapting Hill's novel had previously been unsuccessful; therefore producers sought out a screenwriter to overcome the complications and identified Jane Goldman (Kick-Ass, 2010) as someone they wanted to collaborate with. Goldman realised the film would need additional layers to connect with an audience. A key change within Goldman's screenplay to the novel is Kipp's son's earlier introduction, to emanate Kipp's separation from his son Joseph.

Goldman's script played an essential part in attaining other people's involvement. Director James Watkins (Eden Lake, 2008) inquired about the project following a story within the trade press that Goldman was writing the screenplay. Watkins yearned to direct a ghost story and upon reading Goldman's script he loved it due to its scary nature but also emotional element.

Once on board, Watkins worked with Goldman on redefining the script. The scripts earlier drafts included flashbacks involving the Woman in Black; this idea was eventually abandoned as they wanted to portray Arthur's experience of distinguishing these dreadful secrets.

The protagonist of the film is Arthur Kipps and director James Watkins desired a young actor to portray vulnerability whilst conveying the qualities of a hero. Daniel Radcliffe was Watkins prominent choice. Just 4hours after completing his last shot on the final Harry Potter movie, Radcliffe read the script and subsequently a meeting between Radcliffe and Watkins was arranged. In preparation for the role of Arthur Kipps, Radcliffe spoke to a bereavement counsellor whilst also reading books on grief to ascertain a deeper knowledge and understanding of his characters persona. On 19th July 2010, it was announced that Radcliffe would officially play the role of Arthur Kipps.

Samuel Daily is a prominent supporting character and is Arthur's closest ally. Watkins had admired the work of Ciarán Hinds for numerous years and instantaneously knew he was perfect for the role. Coincidentally, upon Radcliffe first perusing the script he also thought of Hinds to play Daily (Radcliffe and Hinds had just finished working