Yasmin Finney has been confirmed to star in Mars, the upcoming short film based on a song by British singer Yungblud.
According to Deadline, the actress will play Charlie Acaster, “a teenager who has only ever wanted to live a normal existence but an extraordinary night makes her reassess what truly matters.”
Shot in Blackpool and set in the North of England, Mars is inspired by a fan Yungblud met on tour.
In a previous statement, the star said of the film: “This whole journey started with an encounter. Then it became a song, now it’s becoming a movie.
“All my art is about and forever will be about, is making people feel like they can be undeniably themselves, whoever they are – and with this project we’re turning that message up to 11.
“The team we’ve assembled is incredible, I am so honoured to stand with them all behind this beautiful project and to have them help me bring it to life.”
The 11 Minutes singer added: “I can honestly say if you don’t adore this movie, then I can guarantee you’ll fucking learn something from it. You’ll see our stars and touch our scars, only when Mars doesn’t have to wait!”
Yungblud is producing the short alongside Cat Marshall and Stefan Demetriou, while Abel Rubinstein directs.
Chris Bush, writer, described Mars as a story where “the mundane and magical sit side by side,” adding: “It’s Space Age escapism shot through with Northern grit. More than anything I hope it’s honest.
“I’m hugely proud to be working with YUNGBLUD, and the fantastic creative team we’ve assembled. The queer kids are alright.”
Rubinstein hailed Finney as a “striking performer” who has the “ability to tell a whole story with a single look”.
“Yasmin’s quick wit and sense of humour gave Charlie a new dimension,” said Rubinstein. “She is clearly destined for greatness and I would love the opportunity to work with her again.”
Finney memorably rose to fame earlier this year as Elle Argent on Netflix’s beloved coming-of-age series Heartstopper, based on the webcomic and graphic novel of the same name from Alice Oseman.
Released to widespread critical acclaim, the series follows the blossoming romance between the openly gay Charlie Spring (Joe Locke) and rugby player Nick Nelson (Kit Connor).
Less than a month after its release, Netflix renewed Heartstopper for two more seasons. According to the streamer, 23,940,000 hours of the show were watched by viewers during its first full week on the platform.
Finney has also been confirmed to star in Doctor Who’s 60th anniversary series in 2023 as Rose, the title character’s new companion.
“This show has a place in so many people’s hearts, so to be seen as a trans actress by the legend himself, Russell [T Davies], has not only made my year, it’s made my life,” the actress told the BBC about her casting.
“I cannot wait to begin this journey and for you all to see how Rose blossoms. Get ready.”
Mars will premiere at the London Film Festival in October.
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