On 15th November 2007, Universal announced that filming of the Cirque Du Freak movie would begin in February 2008. They also announced the names of the first three actors cast in the movie. Here is one of the many media reports of that announcement.

MSN MOVIES - 15/nov/2007

Does Hollywood consider John C. Reilly a real movie star? The acclaimed supporting actor has made a name for himself with roles in prestige pictures such as "Magnolia," "Chicago," "The Good Girl" and "Gangs of New York." Although several of these dramatic films became big hits, it wasn't because of Reilly in particular. However, with his second billing to Will Ferrell in the hit comedy "Talladega Nights: The Ballad of Ricky Bobby" (and perhaps a good agent), Reilly is staring down a much friendlier commercial road. He hilariously carries the mock biopic "Walk Hard: The Dewey Cox Story," which arrives in theaters next month, and is currently shooting "Step Brothers," opposite Ferrell again. Now, according to The Hollywood Reporter, he's set to play the main villain in Paul Weitz's adaptation of Darren Shan's fantasy adventure, "Cirque du Freak."The Universal Picture film will find youngsters Josh Hutcherson ("Bridge to Terabithia") and Chris Kelly (TBS' "Wanted") as two best friends who visit an illegal freak show where they encounter a vampire, Larten Crepsley (Reilly), and a giant spider. Drama ensues and the two boys' lives are forever changed. The original novel is part of Shan's "Vampire Blood" series, which consists of 11 other books. If "Freak" is successful, it could result in something Reilly never thought he'd be part of: a franchise.

Weitz is best known for collaborating with his brother Chris on a variety of film projects. Paul helmed "About a Boy" and "In Good Company" and is producing "The Golden Compass," which marks Chris' solo directorial debut. "Freak" will mark Paul's first directing gig since the god-awful misfire "American Dreamz" and is expected to begin production in February.