Watch the first trailer for new Laurel and Hardy drama ‘Stan & Ollie’

John C. Reilly and Steve Coogan are bringing Laurel and Hardy back to life in a new biopic.

The film is written by Oscar-nominated writer Jeff Pope, who previously worked with Coogan on Philomena.

Stan & Ollie follows the world’s favorite comedy double act, Laurel & Hardy, as they embark on a variety hall tour of Britain in 1953.

Ahead of the movie’s premiere this month at the 62nd BFI London Film Festival, the first trailer has been released online:

Screenwriter Jeff Pope told The Telegraph: “I am aware of the huge responsibility of bringing their characters to life, but I have not treated the boys with kid gloves or looked at them through rose-coloured specs.

“They are living and breathing characters, with flaws and shortcomings. The research into this story threw up so many details and facts that I had no idea about. But everything I have done has come from a place of love and more than anything else I hope this shines through.”

The official synopsis for Stan & Ollie reads: “Diminished by age and with their golden era as the kings of Hollywood comedy now behind them, [Laurel & Hardy] face an uncertain future.

“Despite the pressure of a hectic schedule, with the support of their wives Lucille (Shirley Henderson) and Ida (Nina Arianda) – a formidable double act in their own right – the pair’s love of performing, as well as love for each other, endures as they secure their place in the hearts of their adoring public. As they set out, crisscrossing the country, attendances are disappointingly low.

“But they’ve always been able to make each other laugh and as the charm and beauty of their performances shines through their audiences laugh too, and they re-connect with legions of adoring fans, old and new.”

Stan & Ollie is released in UK cinemas on 11th January 2019. The movie’s USA release date has not yet been announced.