I agree that unknowns would probably be best suited for the younger characters, especially Ash and Bramble - can’t think of a single actor ideal to play them. Maybe some English or European talent would be good, as opposed to simply Americans.

Catherine Zeta-Jones or Liv Tyler would be great choices for Doronit and/or Martine. My mother, who also reads the books, recommends Eva Green for Doronit.

Off the top of my head though, I have trouble thinking of actors who would suit most of these complex characters.

Actually, I’d love to see Jeremy Irons in another medieval fantasy - I think he’d make a really good Thegan, he has that right touch of coutesy and brutality, gentleness and callousness, and that voice … he’d be perfect for the role. Though he might be old: my mother suggests Clive Owen

Acton will be tricky, and not only since he ages the most of all the characters - his complicated arc must be done delicated. And I’m stumped as to a good actor for playing Saker - probably someone with a Mediterranean accent.

My mother has suggested (again) that Orlando Bloom could be cast as Leof - assuming he’s willing to go blonde again.

Question is, how difficult will the trilogy be to adapt? It’s essentially one single narrative - might have to change things to bring in audiences, or else market it carefully. Not to mention the pacing of each book, and many of the backstories will tragically need to be cut … but if it gets more people reading the books, it will be worth it.

Good luck Ms. Freeman!

For Bramble and the other younger characters, I completely agree that they should be played by unknowns. I think the biggest challenge will be fitting the age. If Bramble seems too young it will be hard to take her seriously. If she is too old it will be hard to take her struggles seriously. I think the movie will be amazing, though, even if Acton will be a really hard one to cast!