Elliot Davis has written the script for the film that promises to tell the "untold" story of Bart's life and how he transformed himself from a musician unable to read or write music into the author of one of the theatre's most enduring hits. "Consider Yourself," which will use Bart's songs for its score, will also delve into the writer's fall after he lost his fortune.
Tony Award-winning Billy Elliot choreographer Peter Darling will create the film's dance sequences. Also set to star are Stephen Fry, Olivia Colman, Eddie Marsan, Matt Lucas, Michelle Dockery and Al Weaver as young Bart.
Vadim Jean will direct and produce the film along with Paul Brooks.
As previously reported, a film remake of "Oliver!" is also in development from award-winning producer Cameron Mackintosh, who presented the hit London revival of the musical.
Bart's musical adaptation of Charles Dickens' "Oliver Twist," which premiered on Broadway in 1963, earned a Tony Award for Best Composer and Lyricist. The popular musical includes the songs "As Long As He Needs Me," "Where Is Love?," "Food, Glorious Food," "Consider Yourself" and "Who Will Buy?"