Lois Lowry’s “The Giver” is one of the most beloved children’s books of all time, winner of the Newberry Medal in 1994. After 20 years, the star-studded film adaptation is poised for its big release later this summer. In anticipation, the film’s distributor, The Weinstein Company, has released three stills from the film spotlighting some of those stars.
Also read: Kate Winslet in ‘Divergent,’ Meryl Streep in ‘The Giver’: 7 YA Films Featuring Award-Winning Actors
The film centers on Jonas, portrayed by Australian actor Brenton Thwaites, as he takes on the role of the “Receiver of Memory.” Jeff Bridges stars as The Giver, who previously held the title. Odeya Rush, best known for “The Odd Life of Timothy Green,” portrays Fiona, shown sharing a meaningful gaze with Jonas over an apple.
Taylor Swift, shown at a piano with Bridges’ The Giver, shares a special connection with both The Giver and Jonas. The final still released features Jonas’ parents, portrayed by Katie Holmes and Alexander Skarsgard (“True Blood”). The movie also stars Meryl Streep, who portrays The Giver’s primary rival, the Chief Elder of this seemingly utopian community.
See video: Meryl Streep, Jeff Bridges Are Very Serious Enemies in ‘The Giver’ Trailer
Produced by Jeff Bridges, Neil Koenigsberg, and Nikki Silver, “The Giver” was written by Michael Mitnick and directed by Phillip Noyce. The Walden Media film is scheduled to premiere in theaters on Friday, August 15, 2014.