Pulitzer-Winning Novel “All The Light We Cannot See” Transforms into Netflix Series Under Shawn Levy’s Direction

Transforming a Pulitzer Prize-winning novel into a Netflix series could be an intimidating endeavor. However, according to the Canadian director and producer, Shawn Levy, he faced the project of “All the Light We Cannot See” with enthusiasm rather than dread, for he was a “rabid fan” of the novel.

Levy explained that his approach was one of deep respect for the original material, but not such fervor that prohibited necessary changes or adaptations to resonate with the medium of film. His comments during a September interview, following the premiere of the first two episodes at the Toronto International Film Festival, highlighted his delicate balancing act in preserving the soul of the novel while translating it for the screen.

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The novel by Anthony Doerr unfolds in the backdrop of the Second World War, intertwining the lives of Marie-Laure, a blind French girl who becomes part of the resistance against Nazi occupation, and Werner, a German teenager with a knack for radio technology, recruited by the Nazis to hunt down illegal broadcasts. Since its publication in 2014, the book has gained immense popularity, selling over 15 million copies globally and receiving numerous accolades, including the prestigious Pulitzer Prize for fiction.

Levy, a Montreal native famed for his work on the 2016 sci-fi drama “Arrival” and the popular Netflix series “Stranger Things,” highlighted Doerr’s understanding of the shift in medium and his open-mindedness towards the adaptation process.

Steven Knight, the scriptwriter of all four episodes and the creator of the acclaimed BBC show “Peaky Blinders,” was in sync with Levy and Doerr, comprehending the essence of the novel and its emotional significance for numerous fans. Amid millions, Levy aimed to honor the iconic characters and capture their spirit as communicated in the pages of the book.

In the quest for authenticity, Levy offered the role of teenage Marie-Laure to newcomer Aria Mia Loberti, who, despite her lack of acting experience, outshone hundreds of candidates in a global casting call for blind and low-vision actresses. Loberti, a scholar and PhD candidate specializing in ancient rhetoric, conveyed an earnest desire to excel and openness to candid feedback.

Levy’s admiration for Loberti was palpable as he detailed how she guided him and others to portray Marie-Laure’s life with authenticity beyond words on a script – a process that involved minor but significant adjustments like showing Marie navigating her home without a cane.

The principal cast also includes Louis Hofmann of Netflix’s German sci-fi series “Dark” as Werner, with Mark Ruffalo and Hugh Laurie portraying Marie’s father Daniel and her great-uncle Etienne, respectively. Levy further demonstrated his commitment to authenticity by casting blind child actress Nell Sutton to portray the younger version of Marie-Laure.

Levy’s track record of successfully directing young actors alongside industry heavyweights comes as no surprise as he credits his abilities to his experience as a father of four. Levy nestles comfortably into the creatives’ community, appreciating the shared love for this creative life amongst new and veteran actors equally.

Shawn Levy’s labor of love, “All The Light We Cannot See,” premieres globally on Netflix this coming Thursday.