Exclusive: Basil Iwanyk and Erica Lee’s Thunder Road (John Wick) is partnering with longtime Screen Gems executive Scott Strauss to launch Badlands.
Backed by Andrew Schwartzberg and Jon Shiffman’s Renegade Capital, the independent genre label will feature development and co-fi funds and plans to make two to three films per year.
First up for the new venture will be Arachnid, starring Matilda Lutz. Written by Jayson Rothwell (Underworld: Blood Wars) and directed by Ángel Gómez (Voces), the spider thriller is due to begin filming this July in Madrid. Altitude Film Sales will introduce the film to buyers in Cannes next week, with CAA Media Finance handling domestic rights.
Rothwell, Schwartzberg, Shiffman, Peter Welter, Alexandra Milchan, and Josh Weinstock are part of the Arachnid producing team.
Lutz is best known for genre projects including Revenge, Reptile and the upcoming films Magpie and Red Sonja, in which she has the title role.
Backed by Andrew Schwartzberg and Jon Shiffman’s Renegade Capital, the independent genre label will feature development and co-fi funds and plans to make two to three films per year.
First up for the new venture will be Arachnid, starring Matilda Lutz. Written by Jayson Rothwell (Underworld: Blood Wars) and directed by Ángel Gómez (Voces), the spider thriller is due to begin filming this July in Madrid. Altitude Film Sales will introduce the film to buyers in Cannes next week, with CAA Media Finance handling domestic rights.
Rothwell, Schwartzberg, Shiffman, Peter Welter, Alexandra Milchan, and Josh Weinstock are part of the Arachnid producing team.
Lutz is best known for genre projects including Revenge, Reptile and the upcoming films Magpie and Red Sonja, in which she has the title role.
- 5/7/2024
- by Andreas Wiseman
- Deadline Film + TV
Eric Bana is venturing into the wilderness of America’s national parks in upcoming limited series Untamed.
Created by Mark L. Smith and Elle Smith (The Marsh King’s Daughter), the character-driven mystery thriller follows Eric Inman (Bana), a special agent for the National Parks Service who works to enforce human law in nature’s vast wilderness. The investigation of a brutal death sends Inman on a collision course with the dark secrets within the park, and in his own past.
Bana is an executive producer of the six-episode drama, while Smith and Smith also serve as executive producers and writers. Untamed is also executive produced by John Wells for John Wells Productions, Escape Artists Entertainment, Steve Lee Jones for Bee Holder Productions, and Cliff Roberts. The...
Created by Mark L. Smith and Elle Smith (The Marsh King’s Daughter), the character-driven mystery thriller follows Eric Inman (Bana), a special agent for the National Parks Service who works to enforce human law in nature’s vast wilderness. The investigation of a brutal death sends Inman on a collision course with the dark secrets within the park, and in his own past.
Bana is an executive producer of the six-episode drama, while Smith and Smith also serve as executive producers and writers. Untamed is also executive produced by John Wells for John Wells Productions, Escape Artists Entertainment, Steve Lee Jones for Bee Holder Productions, and Cliff Roberts. The...
- 3/13/2024
- by Tara Bitran
- Tudum - Netflix
Netflix has ordered the limited series “Untamed” with Erica Bana attached to star, Variety has learned exclusively.
The six-episode series hails from writers Mark L. Smith and his daughter, Elle Smith. The series is described as a character driven mystery thriller in which Bana plays Eric Inman, “a special agent for the National Parks Service who works to enforce human law in nature’s vast wilderness. The investigation of a brutal death sends Inman on a collision course with the dark secrets within the park, and in his own past.”
Along with the Smiths, Bana is also an executive producer on the series. John Wells and Erin Jontow also executive produce via John Wells Productions, as do Todd Black and Tony Shaw for Escape Artists Entertainment, Steve Lee Jones for Bee Holder Productions, and Cliff Roberts for Syndicate Entertainment. Warner Bros. Television, where John Wells Productions is under an overall deal,...
The six-episode series hails from writers Mark L. Smith and his daughter, Elle Smith. The series is described as a character driven mystery thriller in which Bana plays Eric Inman, “a special agent for the National Parks Service who works to enforce human law in nature’s vast wilderness. The investigation of a brutal death sends Inman on a collision course with the dark secrets within the park, and in his own past.”
Along with the Smiths, Bana is also an executive producer on the series. John Wells and Erin Jontow also executive produce via John Wells Productions, as do Todd Black and Tony Shaw for Escape Artists Entertainment, Steve Lee Jones for Bee Holder Productions, and Cliff Roberts for Syndicate Entertainment. Warner Bros. Television, where John Wells Productions is under an overall deal,...
- 3/13/2024
- by Joe Otterson
- Variety Film + TV
Warner Bros. TV has lined up a powerhouse creative team for an adaptation of Glennon Doyle’s best-selling book Untamed.
Sarah Paulson is set to star in the drama, and former Grey’s Anatomy and Station 19 showrunner Krista Vernoff will adapt Doyle’s memoir. Warners and Bad Robot, which has rights to the book, plan to take the project to potential buyers in the coming weeks.
Reps for Warner Bros. TV and Bad Robot declined to comment.
Jessie Nelson (Apple’s Little Voice, Waitress: The Musical), Vernoff’s producing partner and husband Alexandre Schmitt and Andrew Stearn (via the trio’s Trip the Light Productions) will also serve as executive producers. Untamed marks Vernoff’s first TV project since she left Grey’s and Station 19 at the end of the 2022-23 season, as well as her first work after exiting an overall deal with ABC Signature.
The J.J. Abrams-led...
Sarah Paulson is set to star in the drama, and former Grey’s Anatomy and Station 19 showrunner Krista Vernoff will adapt Doyle’s memoir. Warners and Bad Robot, which has rights to the book, plan to take the project to potential buyers in the coming weeks.
Reps for Warner Bros. TV and Bad Robot declined to comment.
Jessie Nelson (Apple’s Little Voice, Waitress: The Musical), Vernoff’s producing partner and husband Alexandre Schmitt and Andrew Stearn (via the trio’s Trip the Light Productions) will also serve as executive producers. Untamed marks Vernoff’s first TV project since she left Grey’s and Station 19 at the end of the 2022-23 season, as well as her first work after exiting an overall deal with ABC Signature.
The J.J. Abrams-led...
- 3/13/2024
- by Lesley Goldberg and Rick Porter
- The Hollywood Reporter - Movie News
Adam Cooper has made his feature directorial debut with the thriller Sleeping Dogs, working from a screenplay he wrote with his writing partner Bill Collage. Starring Russell Crowe (The Pope’s Exorcist) and Karen Gillan (Guardians of the Galaxy), the film is set to reach theatres on March 22nd – and with that date swiftly approaching a trailer for Sleeping Dogs has arrived online! You can watch it in the embed above.
Cooper and Collage’s previous collaborations include New York Minute, Accepted, Tower Heist, The Transporter Refueled, Exodus: Gods and Kings, Allegiant, and Assassin’s Creed. The script they wrote for Sleeping Dogs is based on the novel The Book of Mirrors by E. O. Chirovici. The film has the following synopsis: In the wake of a cutting-edge Alzheimer’s treatment, former homicide detective Roy Freeman is tasked with re-examining a brutal murder case from his past – the grisly murder of a college professor.
Cooper and Collage’s previous collaborations include New York Minute, Accepted, Tower Heist, The Transporter Refueled, Exodus: Gods and Kings, Allegiant, and Assassin’s Creed. The script they wrote for Sleeping Dogs is based on the novel The Book of Mirrors by E. O. Chirovici. The film has the following synopsis: In the wake of a cutting-edge Alzheimer’s treatment, former homicide detective Roy Freeman is tasked with re-examining a brutal murder case from his past – the grisly murder of a college professor.
- 1/25/2024
- by Cody Hamman
- JoBlo.com
Watch the brand new trailer for The Marsh King’S Daughter.
Lionsgate and Roadside Attractions will release the film exclusively in theaters on October 6, 2023.
In the tense thriller The Marsh King’s Daughter, a woman with a secret past will venture into the wilderness she left behind to confront the most dangerous man she’s ever met: her father. In the film, Helena’s (Daisy Ridley) seemingly ordinary life hides a dark and dangerous truth: her estranged father is the infamous Marsh King (Ben Mendelsohn), the man who kept her and her mother captive in the wilderness for years. When her father escapes from prison, Helena will need to confront her past. Knowing that he will hunt for her and her family, Helena must find the strength to face her demons and outmaneuver the man who taught her everything she knows about surviving in the wild.
Produced by Black Bear’s Teddy Schwarzman,...
Lionsgate and Roadside Attractions will release the film exclusively in theaters on October 6, 2023.
In the tense thriller The Marsh King’s Daughter, a woman with a secret past will venture into the wilderness she left behind to confront the most dangerous man she’s ever met: her father. In the film, Helena’s (Daisy Ridley) seemingly ordinary life hides a dark and dangerous truth: her estranged father is the infamous Marsh King (Ben Mendelsohn), the man who kept her and her mother captive in the wilderness for years. When her father escapes from prison, Helena will need to confront her past. Knowing that he will hunt for her and her family, Helena must find the strength to face her demons and outmaneuver the man who taught her everything she knows about surviving in the wild.
Produced by Black Bear’s Teddy Schwarzman,...
- 8/24/2023
- by Michelle McCue
- WeAreMovieGeeks.com
In the tense thriller ‘The Marsh King’s Daughter’, based on the bestselling novel by Karen Dionne, a woman with a secret past will venture into the wilderness she left behind to confront the most dangerous man she’s ever met: her father.
In the film, Helena’s (Daisy Ridley) seemingly ordinary life hides a dark and dangerous truth: her estranged father is the infamous Marsh King (Ben Mendelsohn), the man who kept her and her mother captive in the wilderness for years.
When her father escapes from prison, Helena will need to confront her past. Knowing that he will hunt for her and her family, Helena must find the strength to face her demons and outmaneuver the man who taught her everything she knows about surviving in the wild.
Produced by Black Bear’s Teddy Schwarzman, Anonymous Content’s Keith Redmon, and Mark L Smith, the movie is directed by...
In the film, Helena’s (Daisy Ridley) seemingly ordinary life hides a dark and dangerous truth: her estranged father is the infamous Marsh King (Ben Mendelsohn), the man who kept her and her mother captive in the wilderness for years.
When her father escapes from prison, Helena will need to confront her past. Knowing that he will hunt for her and her family, Helena must find the strength to face her demons and outmaneuver the man who taught her everything she knows about surviving in the wild.
Produced by Black Bear’s Teddy Schwarzman, Anonymous Content’s Keith Redmon, and Mark L Smith, the movie is directed by...
- 8/24/2023
- by Editorial Desk
- GlamSham
Daisy Ridley stars as a woman harboring a terrible secret in the feature film adaptation of Karen Dionne’s bestselling novel The Marsh King’s Daughter. The gripping trailer teases a little too much of the plot, so if you want to go in completely unaware of Ridley’s character’s past, don’t click play.
In addition to Daisy Ridley (the Star Wars franchise), the adaptation stars Emmy Award-winner Ben Mendelsohn (Bloodline), Screen Actors Guild nominee Garrett Hedlund (Mudbound), Caren Pistorius (Unhinged), Brooklynn Prince (The Florida Project), and Gil Birmingham (Yellowstone).
Elle Smith and Mark L. Smith adapted Dionne’s novel and Neil Burger directed. Black Bear’s Teddy Schwarzman, Anonymous Content’s Keith Redmon, and Mark L. Smith served as producers. Michael Heimler, Charles Miller, Cliff Roberts, Robert Simonds, Adam Fogelson, John Friedberg, and Samuel J. Brown executive produced. Black Bear provided the finacing.
The Marsh King’s Daughter opens...
In addition to Daisy Ridley (the Star Wars franchise), the adaptation stars Emmy Award-winner Ben Mendelsohn (Bloodline), Screen Actors Guild nominee Garrett Hedlund (Mudbound), Caren Pistorius (Unhinged), Brooklynn Prince (The Florida Project), and Gil Birmingham (Yellowstone).
Elle Smith and Mark L. Smith adapted Dionne’s novel and Neil Burger directed. Black Bear’s Teddy Schwarzman, Anonymous Content’s Keith Redmon, and Mark L. Smith served as producers. Michael Heimler, Charles Miller, Cliff Roberts, Robert Simonds, Adam Fogelson, John Friedberg, and Samuel J. Brown executive produced. Black Bear provided the finacing.
The Marsh King’s Daughter opens...
- 8/24/2023
- by Rebecca Murray
- Showbiz Junkies
Lionsgate and Roadside Attractions have unveiled a trailer for the psychological thriller The Marsh King’s Daughter, which is set to reach theatres on October 6th. To find out whether or not this is a movie you’ll want to head out to see on the big screen, check out the trailer in the embed above!
An adaptation of the Karen Dionne bestseller of the same name, The Marsh King’s Daughter was directed by Neil Burger with Daisy Ridley (the Star Wars sequel trilogy) taking on the title role. Scripted by Mark L. Smith (The Revenant) and Elle Smith (earning her first screenwriting credit), the film adaptation follows a woman with a secret past who will venture into the wilderness she left behind to confront the most dangerous man she’s ever met: her father. Helena’s (Daisy Ridley) seemingly ordinary life hides a dark and dangerous truth: her estranged father...
An adaptation of the Karen Dionne bestseller of the same name, The Marsh King’s Daughter was directed by Neil Burger with Daisy Ridley (the Star Wars sequel trilogy) taking on the title role. Scripted by Mark L. Smith (The Revenant) and Elle Smith (earning her first screenwriting credit), the film adaptation follows a woman with a secret past who will venture into the wilderness she left behind to confront the most dangerous man she’s ever met: her father. Helena’s (Daisy Ridley) seemingly ordinary life hides a dark and dangerous truth: her estranged father...
- 8/23/2023
- by Cody Hamman
- JoBlo.com
Scripted TV series based on the Jennifer Lopez film “Hustlers” and the Mila Kunis comedy “Bad Moms” will soon be put into development as part of a new distribution agreement between STXfilms and Lionsgate, the companies announced Wednesday.
STXfilms, which released “Hustlers” from 2019 and “Bad Moms” from 2016 along with its sequel “A Bad Moms Christmas” in 2017, are just two of the 75-library titles under which Lionsgate will now handle marketing and distribution. It also means Lionsgate will theatrically domestically distribute new STXfilms releases.
The first film to be released under the new deal is “The Marsh King’s Daughter,” a thriller starring Daisy Ridley and directed by Neil Burger. Lionsgate will now jointly release the film with Roadside Attractions on October 6.
Nothing is in the works just yet on the “Hustlers” or “Bad Moms” front, and it’s unclear if any of the original cast or crew from either movie will...
STXfilms, which released “Hustlers” from 2019 and “Bad Moms” from 2016 along with its sequel “A Bad Moms Christmas” in 2017, are just two of the 75-library titles under which Lionsgate will now handle marketing and distribution. It also means Lionsgate will theatrically domestically distribute new STXfilms releases.
The first film to be released under the new deal is “The Marsh King’s Daughter,” a thriller starring Daisy Ridley and directed by Neil Burger. Lionsgate will now jointly release the film with Roadside Attractions on October 6.
Nothing is in the works just yet on the “Hustlers” or “Bad Moms” front, and it’s unclear if any of the original cast or crew from either movie will...
- 8/23/2023
- by Brian Welk
- Indiewire
Exclusive: We first told you about a year ago that Lionsgate was in talks with STX to distribute and market the Bob Simonds-run studio’s movies, and today we can report that both companies have closed a deal.
Under the pact, Lionsgate will handle marketing and distribution for future STX theatrical releases in North America as well as distribute STX’s 75-title library across all platforms. The first title to be released will be Neil Burger’s thriller, The Marsh King’s Daughter, under Lionsgate’s Roadside Attractions on Oct. 6.
The two studios are currently looking at several co-productions for 2024; and it is anticipated they will work together on the Gerard Butler sequel Greenland 2, which will be dated for theatrical release.
In addition, STX and Lionsgate are also planning on developing several scripted television series based on some of the most popular titles in the STX library, including Bad Moms and Hustlers.
Under the pact, Lionsgate will handle marketing and distribution for future STX theatrical releases in North America as well as distribute STX’s 75-title library across all platforms. The first title to be released will be Neil Burger’s thriller, The Marsh King’s Daughter, under Lionsgate’s Roadside Attractions on Oct. 6.
The two studios are currently looking at several co-productions for 2024; and it is anticipated they will work together on the Gerard Butler sequel Greenland 2, which will be dated for theatrical release.
In addition, STX and Lionsgate are also planning on developing several scripted television series based on some of the most popular titles in the STX library, including Bad Moms and Hustlers.
- 8/23/2023
- by Anthony D'Alessandro
- Deadline Film + TV
A few months ago, we heard that filming was underway on a thriller called Sleeping Dogs, starring Russell Crowe (The Pope’s Exorcist). Filming has since wrapped, and now we’ve gotten our hands on the first image from the film! The image features Crowe and co-star Tommy Flanagan (Alien vs. Predator), and you can check it out at the bottom of this article.
Adam Cooper is making his feature directorial debut with this project, working from a screenplay he wrote with his writing partner Bill Collage. Cooper and Collage’s previous collaborations include New York Minute, Accepted, Tower Heist, The Transporter Refueled, Exodus: Gods and Kings, Allegiant, and Assassin’s Creed. The script Cooper and Collage wrote for Sleeping Dogs is based on the novel The Book of Mirrors by E. O. Chirovici. The film has the following synopsis: In the wake of a cutting-edge Alzheimer’s treatment, former homicide detective...
Adam Cooper is making his feature directorial debut with this project, working from a screenplay he wrote with his writing partner Bill Collage. Cooper and Collage’s previous collaborations include New York Minute, Accepted, Tower Heist, The Transporter Refueled, Exodus: Gods and Kings, Allegiant, and Assassin’s Creed. The script Cooper and Collage wrote for Sleeping Dogs is based on the novel The Book of Mirrors by E. O. Chirovici. The film has the following synopsis: In the wake of a cutting-edge Alzheimer’s treatment, former homicide detective...
- 5/22/2023
- by Cody Hamman
- JoBlo.com
Motor City: Alan Ritchson is out for vengeance in an upcoming action thriller from Timur Bekmambetov
Alan Ritchson is on his way to becoming the next big action star. The muscular actor has already made a name for himself, bringing Lee Child’s Jack Reacher character to life in Amazon’s Reacher. He is also appearing in the upcoming installment in the auto-action franchise Fast & Furious with Fast X. Now, Black Bear Pictures has revealed that the hulking star is slated to star in an action thriller from Timur Bekmambetov, the director of Wanted and Abraham Lincoln: Vampire Hunter, titled Motor City.
According to Black Bear International, in Motor City, “Ritchson will play John Miller, a Detroit man released from prison, who unleashes a rampage of brutal vengeance on those who framed him. The Detroit-set film will be characterized by immersive visual storytelling, with stunningly choreographed and stylized action sequences.”
Bekmambetov has expressed his excitement for taking on the project, “We have an incredible script that...
According to Black Bear International, in Motor City, “Ritchson will play John Miller, a Detroit man released from prison, who unleashes a rampage of brutal vengeance on those who framed him. The Detroit-set film will be characterized by immersive visual storytelling, with stunningly choreographed and stylized action sequences.”
Bekmambetov has expressed his excitement for taking on the project, “We have an incredible script that...
- 5/3/2023
- by EJ Tangonan
- JoBlo.com
Alan Ritchson has been set as the lead in “Motor City,” an action thriller from director Timur Bekmambetov. Black Bear Intl. will launch sales at Cannes.
Ritchson will play John Miller, a Detroit man released from prison, who unleashes a rampage of brutal vengeance on those who framed him. The Detroit-set film will be “characterized by immersive visual storytelling, with stunningly choreographed and stylized action sequences,” according to a statement.
Greg Silverman and Jon Berg will produce for Stampede Ventures, alongside Cliff Roberts and Chad St. John, who also penned the script. Executive producers include Chris Bosco and Gideon Yu for Stampede Ventures and John Friedberg for Black Bear Intl.
Black Bear Intl. will introduce the film to international buyers at the upcoming Cannes Marché du Film, and WME Independent are co-repping domestic rights with Stampede.
Following the critical and consumer success and rapid season two pickup of “Reacher,” Ritchson...
Ritchson will play John Miller, a Detroit man released from prison, who unleashes a rampage of brutal vengeance on those who framed him. The Detroit-set film will be “characterized by immersive visual storytelling, with stunningly choreographed and stylized action sequences,” according to a statement.
Greg Silverman and Jon Berg will produce for Stampede Ventures, alongside Cliff Roberts and Chad St. John, who also penned the script. Executive producers include Chris Bosco and Gideon Yu for Stampede Ventures and John Friedberg for Black Bear Intl.
Black Bear Intl. will introduce the film to international buyers at the upcoming Cannes Marché du Film, and WME Independent are co-repping domestic rights with Stampede.
Following the critical and consumer success and rapid season two pickup of “Reacher,” Ritchson...
- 5/3/2023
- by Leo Barraclough
- Variety Film + TV
Exclusive: Sons of Anarchy alum Tommy Flanagan has signed on to star alongside Academy Award winner Russell Crowe, Karen Gillan, Marton Csokas and more in the crime thriller Sleeping Dogs from Nickel City Pictures.
Related Story A24 Sets Disaster Comedy ‘Y2K’, To Be Directed By ‘SNL’ Alum Kyle Mooney; Jaeden Martell, Rachel Zegler, Julian Dennison & More To Star Related Story Jaeden Martell, Maxwell Jenkins & Sadie Soverall Join Nicolas Cage In Survival Action-Thriller 'Sand And Stones' Related Story Rlje Films & Shudder Acquire Neil Marshall's Horror 'The Lair' From Highland Film Group
The film currently in production in Australia adapts the E.O. Chirovici novel, The Book of Mirrors. Its protagonist is former homicide detective Roy Freeman (Crowe), who in the wake of a cutting-edge Alzheimer’s treatment, is tasked with re-examining a brutal murder case from his past — the grisly murder of a college professor (Csokas). Intrigued and fighting to regain his memory,...
Related Story A24 Sets Disaster Comedy ‘Y2K’, To Be Directed By ‘SNL’ Alum Kyle Mooney; Jaeden Martell, Rachel Zegler, Julian Dennison & More To Star Related Story Jaeden Martell, Maxwell Jenkins & Sadie Soverall Join Nicolas Cage In Survival Action-Thriller 'Sand And Stones' Related Story Rlje Films & Shudder Acquire Neil Marshall's Horror 'The Lair' From Highland Film Group
The film currently in production in Australia adapts the E.O. Chirovici novel, The Book of Mirrors. Its protagonist is former homicide detective Roy Freeman (Crowe), who in the wake of a cutting-edge Alzheimer’s treatment, is tasked with re-examining a brutal murder case from his past — the grisly murder of a college professor (Csokas). Intrigued and fighting to regain his memory,...
- 3/23/2023
- by Matt Grobar
- Deadline Film + TV
Russell Crowe (Gladiator) and Karen Gillan (Guardians of the Galaxy) star in Sleeping Dogs, a thriller that started filming in Australia this month. Adam Cooper is making his feature directorial debut with this project, working from a screenplay he wrote with his writing partner Bill Collage. Cooper and Collage’s previous collaborations include New York Minute, Accepted, Tower Heist, The Transporter Refueled, Exodus: Gods and Kings, Allegiant, and Assassin’s Creed.
The script Cooper and Collage wrote for Sleeping Dogs is based on the novel The Book of Mirrors by E. O. Chirovici. The film has the following synopsis: In the wake of a cutting-edge Alzheimer’s treatment, former homicide detective Roy Freeman is tasked with re-examining a brutal murder case from his past – the grisly murder of a college professor. Intrigued and fighting to regain his memory, Roy enlists his former partner to help him revive the investigation. This time though,...
The script Cooper and Collage wrote for Sleeping Dogs is based on the novel The Book of Mirrors by E. O. Chirovici. The film has the following synopsis: In the wake of a cutting-edge Alzheimer’s treatment, former homicide detective Roy Freeman is tasked with re-examining a brutal murder case from his past – the grisly murder of a college professor. Intrigued and fighting to regain his memory, Roy enlists his former partner to help him revive the investigation. This time though,...
- 2/20/2023
- by Cody Hamman
- JoBlo.com
Karen Gillan, Marton Csokas, Harry Greenwood and Thomas M Wright join the cast of book-to-film crime drama film “Sleeping Dogs,” which shoots in Australia from next month. They join the previously announced Russell Crowe in the cast.
The film is a book-to-film adaptation of E.O. Chirovici’s critically acclaimed novel, “The Book of Mirrors,” with a screenplay by Adam Cooper and Bill Collage. The film also marks Cooper’s feature directorial debut.
In the wake of a cutting-edge Alzheimer’s treatment, Crowe’s character, a former homicide detective, is tasked with re-examining a brutal murder case from his past – the grisly murder of a college professor (Csokas). Fighting to regain his memory, the detective enlists his former partner to help him revive the investigation. They encounter a magnetic and mysterious woman (Gillan), a tangle of contradictions and secrets and a horrific reality that changes the detective’s world view in the blink of an eye.
The film is a book-to-film adaptation of E.O. Chirovici’s critically acclaimed novel, “The Book of Mirrors,” with a screenplay by Adam Cooper and Bill Collage. The film also marks Cooper’s feature directorial debut.
In the wake of a cutting-edge Alzheimer’s treatment, Crowe’s character, a former homicide detective, is tasked with re-examining a brutal murder case from his past – the grisly murder of a college professor (Csokas). Fighting to regain his memory, the detective enlists his former partner to help him revive the investigation. They encounter a magnetic and mysterious woman (Gillan), a tangle of contradictions and secrets and a horrific reality that changes the detective’s world view in the blink of an eye.
- 2/18/2023
- by Patrick Frater
- Variety Film + TV
Click here to read the full article.
Will Smith evades cold-blooded hunters and treacherous Louisiana swamps to win his freedom in the trailer for the Apple slavery drama Emancipation, which dropped Wednesday.
The Antoine Fuqua film tells the triumphant story of Peter (Smith), a man who escapes from slavery, that is inspired by the 1863 photos of “Whipped Peter,” taken during a Union Army medical examination, that first appeared in Harper’s Weekly‘s July 4 issue and became indisputable proof of the inhumanity of slavery in America.
In the trailer (below), Peter’s pain and suffering from the cruelty and barbarity of slavery is evidenced by Smith’s clenched-teeth character having to dodge bloodhounds, alligators and slave hunters, only to end up with a bare back covered with scars from the near-fatal whipping.
“They beat me, they whip me, they break the bones in my body more times than I can count.
Will Smith evades cold-blooded hunters and treacherous Louisiana swamps to win his freedom in the trailer for the Apple slavery drama Emancipation, which dropped Wednesday.
The Antoine Fuqua film tells the triumphant story of Peter (Smith), a man who escapes from slavery, that is inspired by the 1863 photos of “Whipped Peter,” taken during a Union Army medical examination, that first appeared in Harper’s Weekly‘s July 4 issue and became indisputable proof of the inhumanity of slavery in America.
In the trailer (below), Peter’s pain and suffering from the cruelty and barbarity of slavery is evidenced by Smith’s clenched-teeth character having to dodge bloodhounds, alligators and slave hunters, only to end up with a bare back covered with scars from the near-fatal whipping.
“They beat me, they whip me, they break the bones in my body more times than I can count.
- 11/16/2022
- by Etan Vlessing
- The Hollywood Reporter - Movie News
Apple has released the official trailer for “Emancipation,” an upcoming historical drama starring Will Smith as an enslaved man named Peter who journeys through the swamps of Louisiana to find freedom.
Directed by Antoine Fuqua, “Emancipation” marks Smith’s first film since the actor became the center of controversy after slapping Chris Rock at the Academy Awards in March. Though Smith apologized for his actions in a video posted online in June, he resigned from the Academy and has largely stayed out of the public eye since.
The nearly three-minute trailer shows Smith’s character sprinting through marshes, fighting off an alligator and serving in the Union army with the hopes of eventually returning to his family. “I fight them. They beat me. They whip me. They break the bones in my body more times than I can count,” Smith says in an emotional monologue. “But they never, never break me.
Directed by Antoine Fuqua, “Emancipation” marks Smith’s first film since the actor became the center of controversy after slapping Chris Rock at the Academy Awards in March. Though Smith apologized for his actions in a video posted online in June, he resigned from the Academy and has largely stayed out of the public eye since.
The nearly three-minute trailer shows Smith’s character sprinting through marshes, fighting off an alligator and serving in the Union army with the hopes of eventually returning to his family. “I fight them. They beat me. They whip me. They break the bones in my body more times than I can count,” Smith says in an emotional monologue. “But they never, never break me.
- 11/16/2022
- by Ellise Shafer
- Variety Film + TV
Will Smith’s first role post-Oscars slap and Best Actor win lands just in time for awards season.
Smith collaborates with “Training Day” director Antoine Fuqua for the Apple Original film “Emancipation,” based on the true story of former slave “Whipped Peter.” Smith stars as Peter and produces the film through his Westbrook Studios company.
“Emancipation” tells the triumphant story of Peter (Smith), a man who escapes from slavery, relying on his wits, unwavering faith and deep love for his family to evade cold-blooded hunters and the unforgiving swamps of Louisiana on his quest for freedom. The film is inspired by the 1863 photos of “Whipped Peter” taken during a Union Army medical examination that first appeared in Harper’s Weekly. One image, known as “The Scourged Back,” showing Peter’s bare back mutilated by a whipping, ultimately contributed to growing public opposition to slavery.
Ben Foster, Charmaine Bingwa, Mustafa Shakir,...
Smith collaborates with “Training Day” director Antoine Fuqua for the Apple Original film “Emancipation,” based on the true story of former slave “Whipped Peter.” Smith stars as Peter and produces the film through his Westbrook Studios company.
“Emancipation” tells the triumphant story of Peter (Smith), a man who escapes from slavery, relying on his wits, unwavering faith and deep love for his family to evade cold-blooded hunters and the unforgiving swamps of Louisiana on his quest for freedom. The film is inspired by the 1863 photos of “Whipped Peter” taken during a Union Army medical examination that first appeared in Harper’s Weekly. One image, known as “The Scourged Back,” showing Peter’s bare back mutilated by a whipping, ultimately contributed to growing public opposition to slavery.
Ben Foster, Charmaine Bingwa, Mustafa Shakir,...
- 11/16/2022
- by Samantha Bergeson
- Indiewire
Highland Film Group has inked distribution deals in key international territories for “Sleeping Dogs,” its upcoming thriller starring Russell Crowe. The film is an adaptation of E.O. Chirovici’s novel “The Book of Mirrors.”
Key partners for “Sleeping Dogs” distribution are Signature Entertainment for the U.K., Rialto Distribution for Australia/New Zealand, California Filmes for Latin America, Key2Media Audiovisual for Spain, Spentzos Film for Greece, Blue Swan Entertainment for Italy and Eagle Films for the Middle East.
The movie centers on former homicide detective Roy Freeman (Crowe), who is undergoing treatment for Alzheimer’s. He is tasked with re-examining a brutal murder case from his past. A death row inmate Roy arrested 10 years prior is now proclaiming his innocence. Intrigued and fighting to regain his memory, Roy enlists his former partner to help him revive the investigation and discover the truth. This time though, things unfold very differently: as...
Key partners for “Sleeping Dogs” distribution are Signature Entertainment for the U.K., Rialto Distribution for Australia/New Zealand, California Filmes for Latin America, Key2Media Audiovisual for Spain, Spentzos Film for Greece, Blue Swan Entertainment for Italy and Eagle Films for the Middle East.
The movie centers on former homicide detective Roy Freeman (Crowe), who is undergoing treatment for Alzheimer’s. He is tasked with re-examining a brutal murder case from his past. A death row inmate Roy arrested 10 years prior is now proclaiming his innocence. Intrigued and fighting to regain his memory, Roy enlists his former partner to help him revive the investigation and discover the truth. This time though, things unfold very differently: as...
- 11/1/2022
- by Brent Lang
- Variety Film + TV
Click here to read the full article.
Three weeks after Apple debuted Antoine Fuqua’s Emancipation in Washington D.C., the Will Smith-starrer screened for an intimate crowd in Los Angeles that included Rihanna and boyfriend Asap Rocky, Tyler Perry, Kenya Barris, music producer Corey Smyth, celebrity stylist Fawn Boardley and writer-producer Esa Lewis, among others.
Perhaps the most notable guest in the room — aside from Smith himself — was Dave Chappelle.
The superstar comedian recently finished a sold-out European arena tour opposite co-headliner Chris Rock, who was slapped by Smith on stage at the Oscars. The slap seen round the world led eventual best actor Oscar winner Smith to being banned from the show for 10 years.
During stand-up sets in the months since the Oscars, Rock hasn’t shied from addressing the slap though he’s kept most of his comments relatively brief. Just last month at a show in the U.
Three weeks after Apple debuted Antoine Fuqua’s Emancipation in Washington D.C., the Will Smith-starrer screened for an intimate crowd in Los Angeles that included Rihanna and boyfriend Asap Rocky, Tyler Perry, Kenya Barris, music producer Corey Smyth, celebrity stylist Fawn Boardley and writer-producer Esa Lewis, among others.
Perhaps the most notable guest in the room — aside from Smith himself — was Dave Chappelle.
The superstar comedian recently finished a sold-out European arena tour opposite co-headliner Chris Rock, who was slapped by Smith on stage at the Oscars. The slap seen round the world led eventual best actor Oscar winner Smith to being banned from the show for 10 years.
During stand-up sets in the months since the Oscars, Rock hasn’t shied from addressing the slap though he’s kept most of his comments relatively brief. Just last month at a show in the U.
- 10/25/2022
- by Chris Gardner
- The Hollywood Reporter - Movie News
Apple Original Films is hoping that by December 2, 2022 moviegoers are going to be willing to take in a new film starring Will Smith. Emancipation, directed by Antoine Fuqua (Training Day), stars the disgraced actor and marks his first major film project to be released following the slap heard around the world.
For those who need a refresher, Will Smith reacted with violence during the 2022 Oscars after Chris Rock made a joke about Smith’s wife, Jada Pinkett Smith. Smith walked on stage and slapped Rock, and then warned him to keep Jada’s name out of his mouth. Smith was subsequently barred from attending the Oscars for 10 years and he resigned from the Academy of Motion Pictures Arts & Sciences.
In addition to Will Smith, the Emancipation cast includes Ben Foster, Charmaine Bingwa, Gilbert Owuor, Mustafa Shakir, and Steven Ogg. Grant Harvey, Ronnie Gene Bivens, Jayson Warner Smith, Jabbar Lewis, Michael Luwoye,...
For those who need a refresher, Will Smith reacted with violence during the 2022 Oscars after Chris Rock made a joke about Smith’s wife, Jada Pinkett Smith. Smith walked on stage and slapped Rock, and then warned him to keep Jada’s name out of his mouth. Smith was subsequently barred from attending the Oscars for 10 years and he resigned from the Academy of Motion Pictures Arts & Sciences.
In addition to Will Smith, the Emancipation cast includes Ben Foster, Charmaine Bingwa, Gilbert Owuor, Mustafa Shakir, and Steven Ogg. Grant Harvey, Ronnie Gene Bivens, Jayson Warner Smith, Jabbar Lewis, Michael Luwoye,...
- 10/3/2022
- by Rebecca Murray
- Showbiz Junkies
Will Smith is back in business sooner than expected with the action thriller “Emancipation,” as Apple Original Films has set the film for a Dec. 2 theatrical release, followed by a Dec. 9 release on Apple TV+.
Though “Emancipation” had originally been set for a 2022 release date, Apple delayed the film to 2023. Now that delay has been reversed, making this film a potential Oscar contender.
The teaser shows Smith as Peter, a slave who escapes from a Lousiana plantation after being whipped nearly to death. The film follows Peter on his journey to freedom, as he outwits his hunters and makes his way north, where he joins the Union Army. The film is based on the true story of “Whipped Peter,” after photos of his bare back, which was mutilated by a whipping, were published in 1863, revealing the brutality of slavery.
Also Read:
Willem Dafoe Thriller ‘Inside’ Lands at Focus Features for...
Though “Emancipation” had originally been set for a 2022 release date, Apple delayed the film to 2023. Now that delay has been reversed, making this film a potential Oscar contender.
The teaser shows Smith as Peter, a slave who escapes from a Lousiana plantation after being whipped nearly to death. The film follows Peter on his journey to freedom, as he outwits his hunters and makes his way north, where he joins the Union Army. The film is based on the true story of “Whipped Peter,” after photos of his bare back, which was mutilated by a whipping, were published in 1863, revealing the brutality of slavery.
Also Read:
Willem Dafoe Thriller ‘Inside’ Lands at Focus Features for...
- 10/3/2022
- by Aarohi Sheth
- The Wrap
Click here to read the full article.
Apple held the first screening for Will Smith and Antoine Fuqua’s upcoming film, Emancipation, on Saturday in Washington D.C. Though the fate of the project seemingly hung in the balance following Smith’s now-infamous Oscars slap, the screening indicates Apple is looking to release it soon.
At the 2022 Oscars, Smith walked onstage during the ceremony and surprised the world when he slapped presenter Chris Rock, who had made a joke about Smith’s wife, Jada Pinkett Smith. Since then, Smith has resigned from the Academy, some of his projects have been put on hold, and he has apologized to Rock, Rock’s family, his fellow Oscar winners and more.
Apple and NAACP hosted the Emancipation screening during the Congressional Black Caucus Foundation’s 51st Annual Legislative Conference for representatives from the Congressional Black Caucus, Historically Black Colleges and Universities, the Divine...
Apple held the first screening for Will Smith and Antoine Fuqua’s upcoming film, Emancipation, on Saturday in Washington D.C. Though the fate of the project seemingly hung in the balance following Smith’s now-infamous Oscars slap, the screening indicates Apple is looking to release it soon.
At the 2022 Oscars, Smith walked onstage during the ceremony and surprised the world when he slapped presenter Chris Rock, who had made a joke about Smith’s wife, Jada Pinkett Smith. Since then, Smith has resigned from the Academy, some of his projects have been put on hold, and he has apologized to Rock, Rock’s family, his fellow Oscar winners and more.
Apple and NAACP hosted the Emancipation screening during the Congressional Black Caucus Foundation’s 51st Annual Legislative Conference for representatives from the Congressional Black Caucus, Historically Black Colleges and Universities, the Divine...
- 10/2/2022
- by Christy Piña
- The Hollywood Reporter - Movie News
Russell Crowe will play a former homicide detective tasked with re-examining a brutal murder case from his past in “Sleeping Dogs.” The Nickel City Pictures film marks the directorial debut of Adam Cooper, who wrote the script with Bill Collage.
The film is an adaptation of E.O. Chirovici’s acclaimed novel, “The Book of Mirrors.” Cooper and Collage previously penned the scripts for “Assassins Creed” and “Exodus: Gods and Kings.”
Crowe played Roy Freeman, who is undergoing a cutting-edge Alzheimer’s treatment. He is forced to grapple with the impact of an investigation from his former life after a death row inmate that Freeman arrested 10 years prior starts to proclaim his innocence. Intrigued and fighting to regain his memory, Freeman enlists his former partner to help him revive the case and discover the truth. Together, they set off to unravel a tangled web of secrets, forcing Freeman to make some horrific discoveries.
The film is an adaptation of E.O. Chirovici’s acclaimed novel, “The Book of Mirrors.” Cooper and Collage previously penned the scripts for “Assassins Creed” and “Exodus: Gods and Kings.”
Crowe played Roy Freeman, who is undergoing a cutting-edge Alzheimer’s treatment. He is forced to grapple with the impact of an investigation from his former life after a death row inmate that Freeman arrested 10 years prior starts to proclaim his innocence. Intrigued and fighting to regain his memory, Freeman enlists his former partner to help him revive the case and discover the truth. Together, they set off to unravel a tangled web of secrets, forcing Freeman to make some horrific discoveries.
- 8/31/2022
- by Brent Lang
- Variety Film + TV
Marc Guggenheim has signed with CAA for representation, Variety has learned exclusively.
Guggenheim continues to be represented by attorney Wendy Kirk at Johnson Shapiro Slewett & Kole Llp as well as by manager Cliff Roberts at Syndicate Entertainment.
Guggenheim is perhaps best known for his work in The CW’s so-called Arrowverse — its collection of shows based on DC Comics characters. He co-created the first of those shows, “Arrow,” along with Greg Berlanti and Andrew Kreisberg. The show ultimately aired for eight seasons and 170 episodes. Guggenheim, Berlanti, and Kreisberg, along with Phil Klemmer, then went on to create the DC show “Legends of Tomorrow,” which ran for seven seasons and 110 episodes. He also developed the animated DC series “Vixen” and served as a writer and executive producer on “Supergirl.”
Beyond his work in the Arrowverse, Guggenheim and Berlanti co-created the ABC series “Eli Stone.” His other TV credits include “Law & Order,...
Guggenheim continues to be represented by attorney Wendy Kirk at Johnson Shapiro Slewett & Kole Llp as well as by manager Cliff Roberts at Syndicate Entertainment.
Guggenheim is perhaps best known for his work in The CW’s so-called Arrowverse — its collection of shows based on DC Comics characters. He co-created the first of those shows, “Arrow,” along with Greg Berlanti and Andrew Kreisberg. The show ultimately aired for eight seasons and 170 episodes. Guggenheim, Berlanti, and Kreisberg, along with Phil Klemmer, then went on to create the DC show “Legends of Tomorrow,” which ran for seven seasons and 110 episodes. He also developed the animated DC series “Vixen” and served as a writer and executive producer on “Supergirl.”
Beyond his work in the Arrowverse, Guggenheim and Berlanti co-created the ABC series “Eli Stone.” His other TV credits include “Law & Order,...
- 8/15/2022
- by Joe Otterson
- Variety Film + TV
Exclusive: In a seven-figure deal, New Regency Pictures has preemptively acquired film rights to the Peter Heller bestselling novel The Dog Stars, a package that comes with a completed script by Mark L. Smith, whose script work includes The Boys in the Boat, The Revenant and Midnight Sky.
New Regency, Smith and Cliff Roberts will produce. Heller, Lily Brooks-Dalton and Brandon Scott Smith will be executive producers. They are already talking to a big star.
The novel is set in a post-apocalyptic world in which a virus has wiped out most of humanity, with survivors being terrorized by roaming scavengers called “Reapers.” The protagonist is Hig, a pilot who survived the flu that killed everyone he knew, his wife included. He lives in the hangar of a small abandoned airport with his dog, his only neighbor a gun-toting ex-Marine. Hig sometimes heads off in his 1956 Cessna,...
New Regency, Smith and Cliff Roberts will produce. Heller, Lily Brooks-Dalton and Brandon Scott Smith will be executive producers. They are already talking to a big star.
The novel is set in a post-apocalyptic world in which a virus has wiped out most of humanity, with survivors being terrorized by roaming scavengers called “Reapers.” The protagonist is Hig, a pilot who survived the flu that killed everyone he knew, his wife included. He lives in the hangar of a small abandoned airport with his dog, his only neighbor a gun-toting ex-Marine. Hig sometimes heads off in his 1956 Cessna,...
- 6/29/2022
- by Mike Fleming Jr
- Deadline Film + TV
"They came after the impact when the sun went dark." In the aftermath of a comet hitting Earth, vampires rule the world with a bloodthirsty vengeance in Skybound Entertainment and Anonymous Content's new audio drama Impact Winter. Created by Travis Beacham, Impact Winter is now streaming on Audible, and we have the complete release details and official trailer for the post-apocalyptic vampire tale:
Press Release: Newark, N.J. – Audible Inc., the leading creator and provider of premium audio storytelling, multiplatform content company Skybound Entertainment, and visionary and disruptive media company Anonymous Content today announced the cast and premiere date of the epic post-apocalyptic drama, Impact Winter, debuting exclusively on Audible on February 17. The cast includes Himesh Patel, Holliday Grainger, David Gyasi, Esme Creed-Miles (Hanna), Liam Cunningham (Game of Thrones), Bella Ramsey (Game of Thrones), Caroline Ford (Carnival Row), Chloe Pirrie, Indira Varma, Freddy Carter, and an ensemble cast. Skybound...
Press Release: Newark, N.J. – Audible Inc., the leading creator and provider of premium audio storytelling, multiplatform content company Skybound Entertainment, and visionary and disruptive media company Anonymous Content today announced the cast and premiere date of the epic post-apocalyptic drama, Impact Winter, debuting exclusively on Audible on February 17. The cast includes Himesh Patel, Holliday Grainger, David Gyasi, Esme Creed-Miles (Hanna), Liam Cunningham (Game of Thrones), Bella Ramsey (Game of Thrones), Caroline Ford (Carnival Row), Chloe Pirrie, Indira Varma, Freddy Carter, and an ensemble cast. Skybound...
- 2/17/2022
- by Derek Anderson
- DailyDead
Exclusive: Universal Pictures has acquired the John Fusco spec script Phantom, a package that includes producers Harvey Mason Jr of Harvey Mason Media, and John Legend and his Get Lifted Film Co producing partner Mike Jackson. Pic will be an adaptation of the 1910 Gaston Leroux novel Phantom of the Opera, set in contemporary New Orleans.
Ty Stiklorius is the executive producer.
Fusco, whose script work includes Crossroads and Hidalgo, came up with the idea after becoming reacquainted with the French Quarter music scene where he began, while shooting the Bonnie and Clyde pic The Highwaymen.
“I was in New Orleans with Costner, Woody and John Lee Hancock and found myself reconnecting with my old musical haunts, and the next generation of my music cronies,” he told Deadline. “I began playing with them again, writing music and recorded two albums and during the pandemic I reflected on that journey and wanted...
Ty Stiklorius is the executive producer.
Fusco, whose script work includes Crossroads and Hidalgo, came up with the idea after becoming reacquainted with the French Quarter music scene where he began, while shooting the Bonnie and Clyde pic The Highwaymen.
“I was in New Orleans with Costner, Woody and John Lee Hancock and found myself reconnecting with my old musical haunts, and the next generation of my music cronies,” he told Deadline. “I began playing with them again, writing music and recorded two albums and during the pandemic I reflected on that journey and wanted...
- 12/10/2021
- by Mike Fleming Jr
- Deadline Film + TV
Exclusive: Antoine Fuqua’s Apple thriller Emancipation has rounded out its cast, with Steven Ogg, Grant Harvey, Ronnie Gene Blevins, Jayson Warner Smith, Jabbar Lewis, Michael Luwoye and Aaron Moten signing on.
The actors join an ensemble led by Will Smith, which also features Ben Foster, Charmaine Bingwa, Gilbert Owuor and Mustafa Shakir, as previously announced.
The Apple Original Film currently in production in New Orleans tells the story of Peter (Smith), a man who escapes from slavery—relying on his wits, unwavering faith and deep love for his family to evade cold-blooded hunters and the unforgiving swamps of Louisiana on his quest for freedom. The film is inspired by the 1863 photos of “Whipped Peter,...
The actors join an ensemble led by Will Smith, which also features Ben Foster, Charmaine Bingwa, Gilbert Owuor and Mustafa Shakir, as previously announced.
The Apple Original Film currently in production in New Orleans tells the story of Peter (Smith), a man who escapes from slavery—relying on his wits, unwavering faith and deep love for his family to evade cold-blooded hunters and the unforgiving swamps of Louisiana on his quest for freedom. The film is inspired by the 1863 photos of “Whipped Peter,...
- 11/11/2021
- by Matt Grobar
- Deadline Film + TV
Producers Adam Mirels and Robbie Mirels of 141 Entertainment, the team behind Ana Lily Amirpour’s hotly anticipated “Mona Lisa and the Blood Moon,” which plays Sunday in competition at the Venice Film Festival, have signed an option to remake director-writer Sameh Zoabi’s 2018 Venice Horizons Award entry “Tel Aviv on Fire.” The adaptation will be set on the border between the Sonora region of Mexico and a small Arizona town.
Zoabi’s original film nabbed the best actor award in Venice Horizons and went on to receive a host of international kudos. The film uses comedy to explore the absurdity of everyday life under a militarized border force. The remake will utilize these themes and the universal romantic-comedy at its core.
141 Entertainment will attach a Spanish-speaking writer and director to adapt the work to its new U.S. border setting. Zoabi will remain involved creatively and will also serve...
Zoabi’s original film nabbed the best actor award in Venice Horizons and went on to receive a host of international kudos. The film uses comedy to explore the absurdity of everyday life under a militarized border force. The remake will utilize these themes and the universal romantic-comedy at its core.
141 Entertainment will attach a Spanish-speaking writer and director to adapt the work to its new U.S. border setting. Zoabi will remain involved creatively and will also serve...
- 9/4/2021
- by Alissa Simon
- Variety Film + TV
Ben Foster (Leave No Trace), Charmaine Bingwa (The Good Fight), Gilbert Owuor (Montana Story) and Mustafa Shakir have joined the cast of Emancipation.
The Apple Original Film from director Antoine Fuqua tells the triumphant story of Peter (Will Smith), a man who escapes from slavery. As he looks to evade cold-blooded hunters and the unforgiving swamps of Louisiana, Peter relies on his wits, his unwavering faith and his deep love for his family.
In the action-thriller, Foster will play Fassel, who doggedly pursues any enslaved person who attempts to flee to freedom, including Peter.
Bingwa was cast as Peter’s beloved wife Dodienne. Owuor will play Gordon, an enslaved man working at the same camp as Peter, with Shakir portraying Cailloux, a free Black man who serves in the Union Army.
Emancipation was scripted by Willam N. Collage.
The film will be produced by Apple Studios,...
The Apple Original Film from director Antoine Fuqua tells the triumphant story of Peter (Will Smith), a man who escapes from slavery. As he looks to evade cold-blooded hunters and the unforgiving swamps of Louisiana, Peter relies on his wits, his unwavering faith and his deep love for his family.
In the action-thriller, Foster will play Fassel, who doggedly pursues any enslaved person who attempts to flee to freedom, including Peter.
Bingwa was cast as Peter’s beloved wife Dodienne. Owuor will play Gordon, an enslaved man working at the same camp as Peter, with Shakir portraying Cailloux, a free Black man who serves in the Union Army.
Emancipation was scripted by Willam N. Collage.
The film will be produced by Apple Studios,...
- 8/3/2021
- by Matt Grobar
- Deadline Film + TV
Ben Foster, Charmaine Bingwa, Gilbert Owuor and Mustafa Shakir have joined the cast of Antoine Fuqua’s upcoming thriller “Emancipation,” starring Will Smith.
Smith stars as Peter, a runaway slave who flees Louisiana in hopes of traveling north to freedom. “Emancipation” is inspired by the true story of “Whipped Peter,” an enslaved person who emancipated himself from a southern plantation and joined the Union Army. In 1863, photos taken of Peter during an Army medical examination first appeared in Harper’s Weekly. One image, known as “The Scourged Back,” shows the scars from a whipping on Peter’s bare back, illustrating the true cruelty of slavery and ultimately contributed to growing public opposition.
Fuqua will direct from a script by William N. Collage. Fuqua Films and Smith’s media company Westbrook Inc. are backing the project, which sold to Apple Studios for a reported $120 million.
Foster stars opposite Smith, playing Fassel,...
Smith stars as Peter, a runaway slave who flees Louisiana in hopes of traveling north to freedom. “Emancipation” is inspired by the true story of “Whipped Peter,” an enslaved person who emancipated himself from a southern plantation and joined the Union Army. In 1863, photos taken of Peter during an Army medical examination first appeared in Harper’s Weekly. One image, known as “The Scourged Back,” shows the scars from a whipping on Peter’s bare back, illustrating the true cruelty of slavery and ultimately contributed to growing public opposition.
Fuqua will direct from a script by William N. Collage. Fuqua Films and Smith’s media company Westbrook Inc. are backing the project, which sold to Apple Studios for a reported $120 million.
Foster stars opposite Smith, playing Fassel,...
- 8/3/2021
- by Angelique Jackson
- Variety Film + TV
Ben Foster, Charmaine Bingwa, Gilbert Owuor and Mustafa Shakir have joined the cast of “Emancipation,” the runaway slave drama starring Will Smith that’s set up at Apple.
Antoine Fuqua is directing the film from a script by Bill Collage, which is based on true events and is the story of Peter, a runaway slave forced to outwit cold-blooded hunters and the punishing Louisiana swamp on a tortuous journey to the Union Army and his only chance at freedom. Smith is playing the lead.
Foster (“Hell or High Water”) in the film will play Fassel, a man who doggedly pursues any enslaved person who attempts to flee to freedom. Bingwa will play Peter’s beloved wife Dodienne. Owuor will play Gordon, an enslaved man working at the same camp as Peter. And Shakir plays Cailloux, a free Black man who serves in the Union Army.
The film is inspired by...
Antoine Fuqua is directing the film from a script by Bill Collage, which is based on true events and is the story of Peter, a runaway slave forced to outwit cold-blooded hunters and the punishing Louisiana swamp on a tortuous journey to the Union Army and his only chance at freedom. Smith is playing the lead.
Foster (“Hell or High Water”) in the film will play Fassel, a man who doggedly pursues any enslaved person who attempts to flee to freedom. Bingwa will play Peter’s beloved wife Dodienne. Owuor will play Gordon, an enslaved man working at the same camp as Peter. And Shakir plays Cailloux, a free Black man who serves in the Union Army.
The film is inspired by...
- 8/3/2021
- by Brian Welk
- The Wrap
Exclusive: Lionsgate won an auction and is paying north of $1 million and under $2 million for Black Collar, a heist thriller pitch to be written by William N. Collage and produced by Kenya Barris through his Khalabo Ink Society banner. Lionsgate took it off the table as bidders were circling. It is one of the biggest pitch deals of the year.
Specific plot under wraps, but this is a globe trotting suspense action heist adventure said to be reminiscent of hits like The Thomas Crown Affair and Inside Man, but with a fresh contemporary way in with timely themes. Collage scripted Emancipation, which became a $4 million spec script that sold to Apple for a film currently in production starring Will Smith and directed by Antoine Fuqua. Collage also scripted Exodus, Assassin’s Creed, the final installment of Divergent, and the ABC series Of Kings and Prophets among his credits. Collage is exec producing.
Specific plot under wraps, but this is a globe trotting suspense action heist adventure said to be reminiscent of hits like The Thomas Crown Affair and Inside Man, but with a fresh contemporary way in with timely themes. Collage scripted Emancipation, which became a $4 million spec script that sold to Apple for a film currently in production starring Will Smith and directed by Antoine Fuqua. Collage also scripted Exodus, Assassin’s Creed, the final installment of Divergent, and the ABC series Of Kings and Prophets among his credits. Collage is exec producing.
- 7/23/2021
- by Mike Fleming Jr
- Deadline Film + TV
“The Marsh King’s Daughter” has rounded out its cast with Brooklynn Prince, Gil Birmingham, and Caren Pistorius joining the ensemble of the psychological thriller. They will appear alongside the previously announced Daisy Ridley and Ben Mendelsohn in the big-screen adaptation of Karen Dionne’s best-selling novel of the same name. Neil Burger, the director of “Limitless” and “The Illusionist,” will slide behind the camera on this one.
STXfilms, Black Bear Pictures and Anonymous Content have joined forces on the film, which started production in Canada this week.
Here’s the official logline: “‘The Marsh King’s Daughter’ follows Helena (Ridley), a woman living a seemingly ordinary life with her husband and young daughter, but hiding a dark secret within: that her father is the infamous ‘Marsh King,’ the man who kept Helena and her mother captive in the wilderness for years. Helena is forced to face her demons when her father escapes from prison unexpectedly.
STXfilms, Black Bear Pictures and Anonymous Content have joined forces on the film, which started production in Canada this week.
Here’s the official logline: “‘The Marsh King’s Daughter’ follows Helena (Ridley), a woman living a seemingly ordinary life with her husband and young daughter, but hiding a dark secret within: that her father is the infamous ‘Marsh King,’ the man who kept Helena and her mother captive in the wilderness for years. Helena is forced to face her demons when her father escapes from prison unexpectedly.
- 6/16/2021
- by Brent Lang
- Variety Film + TV
Exclusive: An intriguing package is about to be shopped for a series commitment — an hourlong drama on the contradictions that were part of the first term of George Washington. Antoine Fuqua is aboard to direct a pilot and be executive producer with series creators Blue Bloods EP/writer Brian Burns and William N. Collage.
The latter wrote the runaway-slave script Emancipation, which Fuqua is directing with Will Smith starring for Apple Studios. That film is about to begin production in Louisiana.
The President has a pilot script and an eight-episode bible for a series that tells the complex story of America’s first elected leader and the contradictions behind the man who, after leading the country to victory in the Revolutionary War, made an indelible mark on setting up a democratic government as its first president. In his first 153 days, Washington unified the warring factions of the country; organized the State,...
The latter wrote the runaway-slave script Emancipation, which Fuqua is directing with Will Smith starring for Apple Studios. That film is about to begin production in Louisiana.
The President has a pilot script and an eight-episode bible for a series that tells the complex story of America’s first elected leader and the contradictions behind the man who, after leading the country to victory in the Revolutionary War, made an indelible mark on setting up a democratic government as its first president. In his first 153 days, Washington unified the warring factions of the country; organized the State,...
- 6/2/2021
- by Mike Fleming Jr
- Deadline Film + TV
Exclusive: Rogue One: A Star Wars Story and Animal Kingdom actor Ben Mendelsohn is set to star opposite Daisy Ridley in Neil Burger’s (Limitless) upcoming psychological thriller The Marsh King’s Daughter.
Mendelsohn will play Jacob Holbrook, the infamous “Marsh King,” who years ago kept his young daughter, Helena, and her mother captive in the wilderness for years. After a lifetime of trying to escape her past, the now grown Helena (Ridley) is forced to face her demons when her father unexpectedly returns.
Principal photography is set to begin in Canada next month on the movie, which heralds from Black Bear, Anonymous Content and STX, which recently acquired U.S. rights.
The adaptation of Karen Dionne’s popular page-turner of the same name was written by Elle Smith and Mark L. Smith (The Revenant). Producers are Black Bear Pictures’ Teddy Schwarzman (The Imitation Game), Anonymous Content’s Keith Redmon (The Revenant) and Mark L.
Mendelsohn will play Jacob Holbrook, the infamous “Marsh King,” who years ago kept his young daughter, Helena, and her mother captive in the wilderness for years. After a lifetime of trying to escape her past, the now grown Helena (Ridley) is forced to face her demons when her father unexpectedly returns.
Principal photography is set to begin in Canada next month on the movie, which heralds from Black Bear, Anonymous Content and STX, which recently acquired U.S. rights.
The adaptation of Karen Dionne’s popular page-turner of the same name was written by Elle Smith and Mark L. Smith (The Revenant). Producers are Black Bear Pictures’ Teddy Schwarzman (The Imitation Game), Anonymous Content’s Keith Redmon (The Revenant) and Mark L.
- 5/5/2021
- by Andreas Wiseman
- Deadline Film + TV
STXfilms has landed rights to “The Marsh King’s Daughter,” a psychological thriller starring Daisy Ridley.
The film, from director Neil Burger, is expected to begin production in Canada this June.
Based on Karen Dionne’s novel, which has been published in 25 languages, the story follows Helena (Ridley) as a woman living a seemingly ordinary life. Yet she harbors a dark secret: her father is the infamous Marsh King, the moniker appointed after he kept Helena and her mother captive in the wilderness for years. After a lifetime of trying to escape her past, Helena is forced to face her demons when her father unexpectedly escapes from prison.
The acquisition reunites STXfilms with Burger, having previously collaborated on the feel-good drama “The Upside,” which generated more than $100 million at the domestic box office. STXinternational had already secured the international rights for “The Marsh King’s Daughter” and will directly distribute the film in the U.
The film, from director Neil Burger, is expected to begin production in Canada this June.
Based on Karen Dionne’s novel, which has been published in 25 languages, the story follows Helena (Ridley) as a woman living a seemingly ordinary life. Yet she harbors a dark secret: her father is the infamous Marsh King, the moniker appointed after he kept Helena and her mother captive in the wilderness for years. After a lifetime of trying to escape her past, Helena is forced to face her demons when her father unexpectedly escapes from prison.
The acquisition reunites STXfilms with Burger, having previously collaborated on the feel-good drama “The Upside,” which generated more than $100 million at the domestic box office. STXinternational had already secured the international rights for “The Marsh King’s Daughter” and will directly distribute the film in the U.
- 4/21/2021
- by Rebecca Rubin
- Variety Film + TV
We first told you about the Neil Burger-directed thriller The Marsh King’s Daughter, starring Daisy Ridley, which Black Bear Pictures, Anonymous Content and STX International were selling at EFM. Today, STXfilms is taking U.S. rights to the feature, putting them back in business with Burger who directed the $100M-plus B.O. hit for them, The Upside, which the studio licensed from Lantern Entertainment.
Based on Karen Dionne’s international bestseller, The Marsh King’s Daughter follows Ridley as Helena, a woman living a seemingly ordinary life, but hiding a dark secret: her father is the infamous “Marsh King,” the man who kept her and her mother captive in the wilderness for years. After a lifetime of trying to escape her past, Helena is forced to face her demons when her father unexpectedly escapes from prison.
Elle Smith and Mark L. Smith adapted Dionne’s novel. Black Bear Pictures’ Teddy Schwarzman,...
Based on Karen Dionne’s international bestseller, The Marsh King’s Daughter follows Ridley as Helena, a woman living a seemingly ordinary life, but hiding a dark secret: her father is the infamous “Marsh King,” the man who kept her and her mother captive in the wilderness for years. After a lifetime of trying to escape her past, Helena is forced to face her demons when her father unexpectedly escapes from prison.
Elle Smith and Mark L. Smith adapted Dionne’s novel. Black Bear Pictures’ Teddy Schwarzman,...
- 4/21/2021
- by Anthony D'Alessandro
- Deadline Film + TV
Psychological thriller will begin filming in June in Canada
STXfilms has acquired the U.S. distribution rights to “The Marsh King’s Daughter,” a psychological thriller that will be directed by “Divergent” filmmaker Neil Burger and star Daisy Ridley.
“The Marsh King’s Daughter” is based on Karen Dionne’s 2017 book of the same name. It tells the story of Helena, who was kidnapped as a teenager by her father and kept in a remote cabin in the marshlands. After years of trying to escape her past, she must now hunt her father down after he escapes from prison. “The Revenant” writers Mark L. Smith and Elle Smith adapted the screenplay based on Dionne’s book.
Black Bear Pictures will fully finance the movie that hopes to begin filming in Canada this June.
Also Read:
‘Chaos Walking’ Film Review: Tom Holland and Daisy Ridley Plod Through Limp Sci-Fi Saga
The film is...
STXfilms has acquired the U.S. distribution rights to “The Marsh King’s Daughter,” a psychological thriller that will be directed by “Divergent” filmmaker Neil Burger and star Daisy Ridley.
“The Marsh King’s Daughter” is based on Karen Dionne’s 2017 book of the same name. It tells the story of Helena, who was kidnapped as a teenager by her father and kept in a remote cabin in the marshlands. After years of trying to escape her past, she must now hunt her father down after he escapes from prison. “The Revenant” writers Mark L. Smith and Elle Smith adapted the screenplay based on Dionne’s book.
Black Bear Pictures will fully finance the movie that hopes to begin filming in Canada this June.
Also Read:
‘Chaos Walking’ Film Review: Tom Holland and Daisy Ridley Plod Through Limp Sci-Fi Saga
The film is...
- 4/21/2021
- by Brian Welk
- The Wrap
Production on psychological thriller set to begin in Canada in June.
STXfilms has acquired US rights to The Marsh King’s Daughter starring Daisy Ridley from Black Bear and Anonymous Content.
Neil Burger directs, and production on the psychological thriller is set to begin in Canada in June. Black Bear is fully financing the project.
Elle Smith & Mark L. Smith adapted the screenplay from Karen Dionne’s novel of the same name.
Ridley (Star Wars franchise) will play Helena, a seemingly ordinary woman who learns her father is the infamous ‘Marsh King’ who kept her and her mother captive in the wilderness for years.
STXfilms has acquired US rights to The Marsh King’s Daughter starring Daisy Ridley from Black Bear and Anonymous Content.
Neil Burger directs, and production on the psychological thriller is set to begin in Canada in June. Black Bear is fully financing the project.
Elle Smith & Mark L. Smith adapted the screenplay from Karen Dionne’s novel of the same name.
Ridley (Star Wars franchise) will play Helena, a seemingly ordinary woman who learns her father is the infamous ‘Marsh King’ who kept her and her mother captive in the wilderness for years.
- 4/21/2021
- by Jeremy Kay
- ScreenDaily
Exclusive: Netflix has landed The 39 Steps, a limited series star vehicle for Benedict Cumberbatch. Edward Berger, who previously teamed with Cumberbatch on Patrick Melrose, will direct and The Revenant scribe Mark L. Smith will write the series. It’s an update of the classic thriller novel by John Buchan that was famously turned into the 1935 film classic by Alfred Hitchcock.
Anonymous Content, Chapter One Pictures and SunnyMarch are producing. I’m told there will be six or more hourlong episodes, most likely to shoot next year in Europe when schedules clear. Netflix moved most aggressively and committed to make the series when Anonymous Content took the package to the marketplace in late February.
Cumberbatch most recently starred in The Mauritanian and will next be seen starring in the Cold War thriller The Courier. Berger is coming off directing episodes and serving as EP on the superb Showtime limited series Your Honor with Bryan Cranston,...
Anonymous Content, Chapter One Pictures and SunnyMarch are producing. I’m told there will be six or more hourlong episodes, most likely to shoot next year in Europe when schedules clear. Netflix moved most aggressively and committed to make the series when Anonymous Content took the package to the marketplace in late February.
Cumberbatch most recently starred in The Mauritanian and will next be seen starring in the Cold War thriller The Courier. Berger is coming off directing episodes and serving as EP on the superb Showtime limited series Your Honor with Bryan Cranston,...
- 4/9/2021
- by Mike Fleming Jr
- Deadline Film + TV
Exclusive: Benedict Cumberbatch will star in the Anonymous Content limited series update of the classic thriller The 39 Steps. Series is created by The Revenant scribe Mark L. Smith and directed by Edward Berger. Berger teamed previously with Cumberbatch on Patrick Melrose, and was a director and executive producer of the just completed Showtime limited series Your Honor.
Anonymous Content takes the limited series to networks and streaming platforms immediately.
Anonymous Content, Chapter One Pictures and SunnyMarch are producing the limited series inspired by John Buchan’s novel, which was turned into the 1935 film classic by Alfred Hitchcock. Cumberbatch is set to star, Berger to direct, and the scripts are by Smith who most recently scripted the George Clooney-directed The Midnight Sky.
The 39 Steps is a provocative, action-packed conspiracy thriller series that updates the classic novel for our times. An ordinary man, Richard Hannay, becomes an unwitting pawn in a vast,...
Anonymous Content takes the limited series to networks and streaming platforms immediately.
Anonymous Content, Chapter One Pictures and SunnyMarch are producing the limited series inspired by John Buchan’s novel, which was turned into the 1935 film classic by Alfred Hitchcock. Cumberbatch is set to star, Berger to direct, and the scripts are by Smith who most recently scripted the George Clooney-directed The Midnight Sky.
The 39 Steps is a provocative, action-packed conspiracy thriller series that updates the classic novel for our times. An ordinary man, Richard Hannay, becomes an unwitting pawn in a vast,...
- 2/19/2021
- by Mike Fleming Jr
- Deadline Film + TV
Exclusive: Showtime may have found its next Homeland. The network is tying up a preemptive deal to acquire and turn the Nathan Englander Israeli-Palestine conflict novel Dinner at the Center of the Earth into a series that Homeland architects Howard Gordon & Alex Gansa will write and run as executive producers. Deal is being made through Sony Pictures Television Studios, where Gordon and Gansa made a four-year overall deal last year.
Showtime isn’t commenting, but Deadline hears the commitment is for a pilot that will be written by Gordon & Gansa, who steered Homeland through eight solid seasons. The hope is for this to be the next major series for the duo.
The novel is a sprawling drama that has some basis in real players in the Israeli-Palestinian conflict, set in the Middle East and Europe, but the simplest way to describe it is a spy thriller in the vein of Homeland and The Night Manager.
Showtime isn’t commenting, but Deadline hears the commitment is for a pilot that will be written by Gordon & Gansa, who steered Homeland through eight solid seasons. The hope is for this to be the next major series for the duo.
The novel is a sprawling drama that has some basis in real players in the Israeli-Palestinian conflict, set in the Middle East and Europe, but the simplest way to describe it is a spy thriller in the vein of Homeland and The Night Manager.
- 11/24/2020
- by Mike Fleming Jr
- Deadline Film + TV
Apple has won the bidding for the runaway slave thriller “Emancipation” starring Will Smith and directed by Antoine Fuqua.
Warner Bros, MGM, Lionsgate and Universal also made offers on the property starting last week at the Cannes virtual market. CAA Media Finance, which arranged the financing for the film, represents U.S. rights at the market. Film Nation Entertainment represents international sales.
“Emancipation” is written by William N. Collage and centered on a runaway slave named Peter, who escaped to the Union Army during the Civil War and outwitted bounty hunters over 10 days through the Louisiana swamps, masking his scent with onions. Army photos taken of Peter showing the scars on his back from being whipped were published in 1863 and became known as the “scourged back” photos, which became a means to illustrate the cruelty of slavery.
Production is expected to launch in early 2021. Smith will produce “Emancipation” through Westbrook Studios...
Warner Bros, MGM, Lionsgate and Universal also made offers on the property starting last week at the Cannes virtual market. CAA Media Finance, which arranged the financing for the film, represents U.S. rights at the market. Film Nation Entertainment represents international sales.
“Emancipation” is written by William N. Collage and centered on a runaway slave named Peter, who escaped to the Union Army during the Civil War and outwitted bounty hunters over 10 days through the Louisiana swamps, masking his scent with onions. Army photos taken of Peter showing the scars on his back from being whipped were published in 1863 and became known as the “scourged back” photos, which became a means to illustrate the cruelty of slavery.
Production is expected to launch in early 2021. Smith will produce “Emancipation” through Westbrook Studios...
- 7/1/2020
- by Dave McNary
- Variety Film + TV
Exclusive: The largest film festival acquisition deal in film history is now closed. Apple Studios has acquired world rights to Emancipation, the film package with Antoine Fuqua directing Will Smith in a Willam N. Collage-scripted action thriller about the harrowing escape of Peter, a runaway slave forced to outwit cold-blooded hunters and the unforgiving swamps of Louisiana on a tortuous journey North where he joined the Union Army.
There were seven bidders when the package was brought to market last week as the signature film in the Virtual Cannes market. Bidding zoomed past $75 million, and the field got down to Warner Bros and Apple, and the latter finally closed the deal last night. Sources said the commitment comes in at $105 million net, but when backend gross buyouts are factored in, deal will exceed $120 million when all is said and done. Collage is being paid mid seven figures for his script.
There were seven bidders when the package was brought to market last week as the signature film in the Virtual Cannes market. Bidding zoomed past $75 million, and the field got down to Warner Bros and Apple, and the latter finally closed the deal last night. Sources said the commitment comes in at $105 million net, but when backend gross buyouts are factored in, deal will exceed $120 million when all is said and done. Collage is being paid mid seven figures for his script.
- 7/1/2020
- by Mike Fleming Jr
- Deadline Film + TV
Exclusive: It is a close race down to the wire on Emancipation between Apple and Warner Bros, and when the dust settles, sources said that there will be a record breaking deal for a festival pre-buy, as the bidding is in the $130 million vicinity from a gross standpoint, with around $110 million net. This is leaps and bounds higher than any festival acquisition deal I can recall. CAA Media Finance and FilmNation Entertainment is brokering.
I hear Apple has the edge, but the auction isn’t over. The film package will have Antoine Fuqua direct Will Smith in a Willam N. Collage-scripted action thriller about the harrowing escape of Peter, a runaway slave forced to outwit cold-blooded hunters and the unforgiving swamps of Louisiana on a tortuous journey North where he joined the Union Army.
Since Deadline first revealed the project and Fuqua and Smith’s intention to make it together,...
I hear Apple has the edge, but the auction isn’t over. The film package will have Antoine Fuqua direct Will Smith in a Willam N. Collage-scripted action thriller about the harrowing escape of Peter, a runaway slave forced to outwit cold-blooded hunters and the unforgiving swamps of Louisiana on a tortuous journey North where he joined the Union Army.
Since Deadline first revealed the project and Fuqua and Smith’s intention to make it together,...
- 6/26/2020
- by Mike Fleming Jr
- Deadline Film + TV
FilmNation, CAA Media Finance handle rights.
Warner Bros and Apple are understood to be vying for runaway slave thriller Emancipation, the most high profile sales title of the virtual Cannes market that pairs Will Smith with director Antoine Fuqua and is, according to sources and reports, driving up bids towards the high eight-figure range.
FilmNation and CAA Media Finance introduced the project at the Us-led A Demain virtual Cannes market this week and hosted an online presentation.
The project is timely given the renewed focus on race relations and waves of protests around the world stemming from police killings and...
Warner Bros and Apple are understood to be vying for runaway slave thriller Emancipation, the most high profile sales title of the virtual Cannes market that pairs Will Smith with director Antoine Fuqua and is, according to sources and reports, driving up bids towards the high eight-figure range.
FilmNation and CAA Media Finance introduced the project at the Us-led A Demain virtual Cannes market this week and hosted an online presentation.
The project is timely given the renewed focus on race relations and waves of protests around the world stemming from police killings and...
- 6/24/2020
- by 36¦Jeremy Kay¦54¦
- ScreenDaily
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