Kim Bodnia as "Frank" in Nicolas Winding Refn's "Pusher"

LONDON — Vertigo Films and Embargo Films announced Tuesday that shooting will begin on the English language remake of Nicolas Winding Refn’s drug film, “Pusher,” on May 8, 2011.

Spanish director Luis Prieto (“Meno Male Che Ci Sei”) will direct the London-based remake, which stars Agyness Deyn, Richard Coyle, Bronson Webb and Paul Kaye. Refn will assume the role of Executive Producer, with Rupert Preston from Vertigo Films and Chris Simon and Felix Vossen from Embargo Films producing.

“’Pusher’ was the film that launched my career and to have Luis Prieto direct the remake in London will be an exciting venture,” Refn said. “It’s a classic tale with strong characters and has an engaging narrative. To see my characters, Frank and Tonny in London, one of the most exciting and diverse cities in the world, is an opportunity not to be missed.”

The original 1996 film, a which follows a disastrous week in the life of a minor Danish drug pusher, has become an international cult classic and made Refn famous. The English language remake will tell a similar story, only set in London.

“I am delighted to be on board such an exciting project and having the chance to work with Nicolas Winding Refn,” Prieto said. “‘Pusher’ will be thrilling, funny, fast paced and visually striking.”

Shooting will take place over 5 weeks, in London’s Shoreditch and Dalston.