Steven Spielberg has found his big friendly giant.
DreamWorks Studios announced on Monday that Mark Rylance will play the eponymous role in Spielberg’s adaptation of Roald Dahl’s “The BFG.”
See photos: George Clooney Photobombs Jerry Seinfeld, Steven Spielberg During USC Gala (Photos)
The children’s tale, first published in 1982, follows a young girl teaming up with the Queen of England and a benevolent giant to capture the evil, man-eating giants who have been invading the human world.
Rylance, who has won three Tony Awards for his work on stage, is currently working with Spielberg on the Untitled Cold War Spy Thriller, which stars Tom Hanks.
Also read: Hillary Clinton’s Hollywood Fundraiser Raises $2.1 Million for Democratic Midterms
The actor’s upcoming projects include “The Gunman,” “Days and Nights,” and the lead role in the BBC adaptation of “Wolf Hall.”
See video: Tom Hanks Teaches Justin Bieber ‘This Is How We Do It’ on the Dance Floor
Rylance is represented by Hamilton Hodell and Peikoff Mahan Law Office.
Spielberg will begin production on “The BFG” in early 2015 and it will open in U.S. theaters on July 1, 2016.
“As I witnessed on stage, Mark Rylance is a transformational actor,” Spielberg said in a statement. “I am excited and thrilled that Mark will be making this journey with us to Giant Country. Everything about his career so far is about making the courageous choice and I’m honored he has chosen ‘The BFG’ as his next big screen performance.”