From Fast Show to Slowcoach

The eagerly awaited next project from Plasticine magic men Aardman Animation, The Tortoise and the Hare is due to start filming in March 2001 and rumour has already begun spreading about possible stars. Michael Caine has for some time been tentatively linked to the project and now a report on Dark Horizons is suggesting another British name to add to the mix. An animation fan emailed the site to say that Aardman's Director of Photography told his college studies group that two names had been signed to the project - Michael Caine and The Fast Show's Paul Whitehouse. Hoping to clarify matters somewhat, Empire Online called Aardman today and asked them what the story was. 'We're still in the process of casting voices,' said spokesman Arthur Sheriff, 'No-one has been confirmed.' However Sheriff did go on to say that, 'while I'm not saying he's being tested, we may find, for example, that Paul Whitehouse isn't the right person for that particular spot or particular character.' Make of that what you will. The final decisions about voice castings will be made in late January, according to Aardman, and an announcement on the cast is due at the beginning of February with shooting starting in March.