Netflix has unveiled the star-studded ensemble for its eagerly anticipated animated adaptation of Roald Dahl's classic tale, "The Twits." Joining the esteemed ranks of Johnny Vegas, Margo Martindale, Emilia Clarke, and Natalie Portman are rising talents such as Maitreyi Ramakrishnan from "Never Have I Ever," portraying Beesha, alongside Ryan Lopez as Busby. Rounding out the formidable cast are Timothy Simons as Marty Muggle-Wump, Nicole Byer as Beverly Onion, and Jason Mantzoukas as Mayor Wayne John John-John. Furthermore, the Jellyfish Pictures feature boasts Alan Tudyk as Sweet Toed Toad, Mark Proksch as Horvis Dingle, Rebecca Wisocky as Dee Dumdie-Dungle, and Charlie Berens as Gorb Klurb.
Directed by the duo of Katie Shanahan and Todd Demong, Phil Johnston's film, set to debut on October 17, will also feature three enchanting original songs composed by David Byrne, frontman of the legendary band Talking Heads. Performed by the talented cast, the songs are titled "We’re Not Like Ev’ryone Else," "Lullaby," and "The Problem Is You." Byrne has collaborated with Hayley Williams of Paramore on the closing credits song, "Open the Door," promising a heartfelt conclusion to the whimsical tale.
"The Twits," which marks the first screen adaptation inspired by Dahl's eponymous book—translated into 41 languages and selling over 16 million copies worldwide—promises to be a visual and auditory delight. Byrne shared, "Phil was incredibly clear about the emotions each song needed to convey and the characters' feelings at those pivotal moments. I reached out to Hayley Williams to collaborate on the end credits song, and we both agreed it should serve as a reminder of the heart and connection within the story, amidst all the unpleasantness portrayed by Mr. and Mrs. Twit. Hayley was inspired by Beesha's journey and contributed some lyrics, which I then set to music, and the result was magical."
Williams added, "Being part of this film has been nothing short of surreal. 'The Twits' was my favorite Roald Dahl book growing up. I'm fascinated by twisted characters like Mr. and Mrs. Twit and The Wormwoods from 'Matilda.' The way Phil and Daisy adapted the original story was thrilling, as was the animation style. It's a cautionary tale wrapped in a beautiful depiction of chosen family and community, topics close to my heart. I owe David Byrne a huge thank you for bringing me into the music. Starting a song from scratch with him was both fun and surreal."
The plot synopsis captures the essence of the tale: "The Twits" recounts the story of Mr. and Mrs. Twit, the meanest, smelliest, and nastiest individuals in existence, who also happen to run the most revolting, perilous, and idiotic amusement park on earth, Twitlandia. When the Twits ascend to power in their town, two courageous children and a family of mystical Muggle-Wumps are compelled to become as cunning as the Twits to save the city.
Oscar nominee Johnston, best known for "Wreck-It Ralph," admitted, "I still can't quite fathom" spending the past few years collaborating with Byrne, a childhood music hero. "From the first demo he sent me, featuring a 100-year-old banjolele, I knew I'd adore his compositions. Collaborating with David has been incredibly enjoyable and surprisingly seamless, perhaps because I've been 'borrowing' from him for years." He continued, "When David and I discussed an end credits song, Hayley Williams was his first suggestion. My immediate response was an enthusiastic 'yes,' followed by 'please.' It's still surreal that two of my favorite songwriters wrote a song together for 'The Twits.' The saying 'never meet your heroes' doesn't apply here. I've met two of mine, and it's been a dream come true."
