Sometimes, the most gripping stories come not from the imagination of a screenwriter, but from the pages of history. The upcoming historical drama Hudson & Maria aims to prove just that, bringing to life the extraordinary true story of a missionary couple who defied convention and risked everything in 19th-century China. With a cast led by William Moseley (The Chronicles of Narnia), Poppy Drayton (Charmed), and Ludi Lin (Mortal Kombat), the film promises to be an epic tale of faith, perseverance, and cross-cultural connection.
Set against the backdrop of the Opium Wars, Hudson & Maria centers on Hudson Taylor, one of the most influential missionaries in history, and his wife, Maria. The couple abandoned their comfortable English life to adopt Chinese customs, dress, and language in their quest to spread Christianity inland. Alongside their close friend Wang Laijun (played by Lin), they faced relentless persecution but ultimately founded the China Inland Mission, which opened the country to a diverse community of worshippers. The film will follow their arduous journey from start to finish, highlighting the sacrifices that turned their story into legend.
A Stellar International Ensemble
Collider can exclusively confirm that filming will begin in Malaysia at the end of July, and the full cast has been revealed. Moseley, best known for playing Peter Pevensie in all three Chronicles of Narnia films, steps into the role of the kindly and determined Taylor. Drayton portrays Maria, depicted as the real backbone of the mission—a woman whose unwavering compassion and resilience made Taylor's efforts possible. Lin, fresh off his return as Liu Kang in the acclaimed Mortal Kombat sequel, rounds out the main trio as Wang Laijun, a loyal friend who stands by the Taylors through thick and thin.
The supporting cast is equally impressive, featuring Jeremy Swift (Ted Lasso), Rupert Graves (V for Vendetta), Tan Kheng Hua, Darren Lim, Jemma Donovan, Catriona Munro, Ben Van Lier, Wang Wei, Matt William Knowles, Kate Sullivan, Vanessa Yao, and Cedric Gegel. This diverse international ensemble reflects the inclusive spirit that the Taylors championed.
Behind the Camera
Writer-director Matt Mikalatos reunites with Burns & Co. Entertainment to helm Hudson & Maria. Mikalatos previously penned the family adventure Legacy Peak for the company in 2022. His latest project follows in the footsteps of other biographical epics that have captivated audiences, much like the sweeping narratives found in Steven Spielberg's best 21st-century films. In a statement, Mikalatos celebrated the film's diverse cast: "I'm so thankful for the incredible cast who have come together from across many cultures and nations to tell this story. Hudson and Maria would be pleased to see such a diverse group of talented people representing them on screen."
Drayton also shared her excitement: "I could not be more excited to play Maria in Hudson & Maria. It is an honor to be part of Matt's masterful vision and bring to life a woman who contained such unwavering compassion, resilience and courage. I am eager to tell her story with the depth and justice it deserves."
Producers include Aaron Burns, Jack McClintock, and David Cook, while Jamie Taylor III and Angela Galgani Sullivan serve as executive producers. The film is poised to be a major biographical feature from Burns & Co., which also has the star-studded Jimmy Stewart film Jimmy starring KJ Apa coming this November.
With its blend of historical drama, faith-based inspiration, and a stellar cast, Hudson & Maria is shaping up to be one of the most anticipated releases for audiences who love stories of courage and conviction. For fans of epic historical sagas, this film promises to deliver a powerful narrative that resonates across cultures and generations.
