‘Killing Kelly’ Wears the Skin of Jason Isaacs?!

ScreenDaily breaks the news on Killing Kelly, a crazy Ireland-set dark comedy thriller heading to Cannes from Hackers and Skeleton Key director Iain Softley.

Killing Kelly centers on Murphy, a shy young taxidermist who toils endlessly for his abusive boss, the titular Kelly, played by Jason Isaacs (A Cure for Wellness). Provoked by yet another cruelty, the youngster unintentionally kills Kelly and uses his skills to wear the dead man’s skin, living a double life that is as ridiculous as it is terrifying.

Murphy’s only hope is to seek the help of his newfound love, the defiant and unconventional Miss Poe played by Thomasin McKenzie (Last Night in Soho).

Johnny Ferguson adapted the screenplay from the short story Two in One by legendary Irish author, playwright, and satirist Flann O’Brien.

Production is scheduled to begin this autumn in Dublin, with Fisher Stevens’ Highly Flammable and in-house producer Zak Kilberg newly joining the creative team alongside producers Michael Garland of Grand Pictures, and Sarah Curtis and Softley for Forthcoming Films. Screen Ireland is supporting the project and J. Todd Harris’ Branded Pictures is co-financing.

Upgrade will commence talks in Cannes next week on the film.