Three new execs will develop their own film and TV slates.
Ann Phillips, former Film4, House Productions and Ray Pictures exec, is re-joining film and TV outfit See-Saw Films as head of development for film and executive producer for limited TV series, as part of an expansion drive by Iain Canning and Emile Sherman’s UK-Australian outfit.
Phillips previously worked at See-Saw as head of development before joining Tessa Ross and Juliette Howell’s House Productions in 2016. Prior to that Phillips had worked as a creative exec at Film4. She was named a Screen Future Leader in 2012.
She joins from...
Ann Phillips, former Film4, House Productions and Ray Pictures exec, is re-joining film and TV outfit See-Saw Films as head of development for film and executive producer for limited TV series, as part of an expansion drive by Iain Canning and Emile Sherman’s UK-Australian outfit.
Phillips previously worked at See-Saw as head of development before joining Tessa Ross and Juliette Howell’s House Productions in 2016. Prior to that Phillips had worked as a creative exec at Film4. She was named a Screen Future Leader in 2012.
She joins from...
- 11/1/2022
- by John Elmes Broadcast
- ScreenDaily
Phillips joins from Tessa Ross and Juliette Howell’s House Productions.
Ray Pictures, the recently-launched UK and Us-based production company headed by Ink Factory alumni Alexei Boltho and Rhodri Thomas, has hired Ann Phillips as head of development.
Phillips joins from Tessa Ross’ and Juliette Howell’s House Productions, where she had been a development executive since 2016, working with filmmakers including Sean Durkin, Clio Barnard and Rebecca Lenkiewicz.
She previously worked as head of development at See-Saw Films, and before that as a creative executive at Film4 and head of development and acquisitions at sales and financing company WestEnd Films.
Ray Pictures, the recently-launched UK and Us-based production company headed by Ink Factory alumni Alexei Boltho and Rhodri Thomas, has hired Ann Phillips as head of development.
Phillips joins from Tessa Ross’ and Juliette Howell’s House Productions, where she had been a development executive since 2016, working with filmmakers including Sean Durkin, Clio Barnard and Rebecca Lenkiewicz.
She previously worked as head of development at See-Saw Films, and before that as a creative executive at Film4 and head of development and acquisitions at sales and financing company WestEnd Films.
- 5/15/2019
- by Ben Dalton
- ScreenDaily
Exclusive: Endeavor Content and MediaNet-backed Ray Pictures has hired former House Productions and Film4 exec Ann Phillips as Head Of Development, marking the fledgling outfit’s first senior hire.
Former Ink Factory partners Alexei Boltho and Rhodri Thomas, executive producers on The Night Manager, launched TV and film banner Ray earlier this year.
At Tessa Ross and Juliette Howell’s film and TV indie House Productions, Phillips worked with writers and directors such as Sean Durkin, Peter Straughan, Clio Barnard and Rebecca Lenkiewicz. She previously held posts at See-Saw Films, Film4 as Creative Executive and WestEnd Films as Head Of Development and Acquisitions.
Ray co-CEOs Rhodri Thomas and Alexei Boltho said of today’s hire, “We’re delighted that Ann has joined Ray to work across our fast growing film and TV slate. She has phenomenal taste and filmmaker relationships, and arrives having worked at some of the best companies in the business.
Former Ink Factory partners Alexei Boltho and Rhodri Thomas, executive producers on The Night Manager, launched TV and film banner Ray earlier this year.
At Tessa Ross and Juliette Howell’s film and TV indie House Productions, Phillips worked with writers and directors such as Sean Durkin, Peter Straughan, Clio Barnard and Rebecca Lenkiewicz. She previously held posts at See-Saw Films, Film4 as Creative Executive and WestEnd Films as Head Of Development and Acquisitions.
Ray co-CEOs Rhodri Thomas and Alexei Boltho said of today’s hire, “We’re delighted that Ann has joined Ray to work across our fast growing film and TV slate. She has phenomenal taste and filmmaker relationships, and arrives having worked at some of the best companies in the business.
- 5/15/2019
- by Andreas Wiseman
- Deadline Film + TV
The final panel of this year’s Stella Artois & Deadline Sundance Series kicks off now with Fighting With My Family, the movie Deadline broke earlier this month is this year’s surprise screening at the Sundance Film Festival. The comedic drama about a family of wrestlers, from MGM and Dwayne Johnson and Dany Garcia’s Seven Bucks Production,s hits theaters February 14, but not before it has its world bow tonight at 9:30 Park City time at the Ray Theatre.
Writer-director Stephen Merchant joins the film’s stars Vince Vaughn, Florence Pugh, Lena Headey, Nick Frost, Jack Lowden and WWE superstar Paige to sit with Deadline moderator Dominic Patten at Stella’s Film Lounge to discuss the film, which is based on Paige’s real-life upbringing in the UK.
The movie centers on Saraya (Pugh) and her brother Zak (Lowden), members of a wrestling-obsessed family, who get the once-in-a-lifetime opportunity to try out for WWE.
Writer-director Stephen Merchant joins the film’s stars Vince Vaughn, Florence Pugh, Lena Headey, Nick Frost, Jack Lowden and WWE superstar Paige to sit with Deadline moderator Dominic Patten at Stella’s Film Lounge to discuss the film, which is based on Paige’s real-life upbringing in the UK.
The movie centers on Saraya (Pugh) and her brother Zak (Lowden), members of a wrestling-obsessed family, who get the once-in-a-lifetime opportunity to try out for WWE.
- 1/28/2019
- by Patrick Hipes
- Deadline Film + TV
Projects on debut slate include Aquarium starring Gugu Mbatha-Raw.
Alexei Boltho and Rhodri Thomas, the former partners at UK production outfit The Ink Factory whose credits include The Night Manager, have officially launched their new production company Ray Pictures.
The company has backing from Us sales and packaging outfit Endeavor Content and private asset management firm MediaNet Partners. It will be based in London and Los Angeles.
Ray Pictures will develop, finance and produce work across multiple platforms, with a focus on premium scripted drama and feature films.
Boltho and Thomas are launching with a debut slate that includes Aquarium,...
Alexei Boltho and Rhodri Thomas, the former partners at UK production outfit The Ink Factory whose credits include The Night Manager, have officially launched their new production company Ray Pictures.
The company has backing from Us sales and packaging outfit Endeavor Content and private asset management firm MediaNet Partners. It will be based in London and Los Angeles.
Ray Pictures will develop, finance and produce work across multiple platforms, with a focus on premium scripted drama and feature films.
Boltho and Thomas are launching with a debut slate that includes Aquarium,...
- 1/25/2019
- by Tom Grater
- ScreenDaily
Former Ink Factory partners Alexei Boltho and Rhodri Thomas, executive producers on The Night Manager, have launched new production company Ray Pictures, we can reveal. Backed by Endeavor Content and MediaNet Partners the company will develop, finance and produce for film and TV but will focus on scripted drama.
The London and La-based company’s first projects include a feature film adaptation of John Boyne’s novel, A Ladder to the Sky, with filmmakers to be announced shortly, and a Tokyo-set TV series, Occupied City, written by Ben Hervey (Taboo) from the novel by David Peace. Currently casting is feature film Aquarium adapted from David Vann’s book by Marnie Dickens (Gold Digger), to be directed by debut feature director Lauren Caris Cohan and set to star Gugu Mbatha-Raw (Belle).
At The Ink Factory the duo worked on hit series The Night Manager (sold by Wme-img) and movies such as...
The London and La-based company’s first projects include a feature film adaptation of John Boyne’s novel, A Ladder to the Sky, with filmmakers to be announced shortly, and a Tokyo-set TV series, Occupied City, written by Ben Hervey (Taboo) from the novel by David Peace. Currently casting is feature film Aquarium adapted from David Vann’s book by Marnie Dickens (Gold Digger), to be directed by debut feature director Lauren Caris Cohan and set to star Gugu Mbatha-Raw (Belle).
At The Ink Factory the duo worked on hit series The Night Manager (sold by Wme-img) and movies such as...
- 1/24/2019
- by Andreas Wiseman
- Deadline Film + TV
Exclusive: We’ve been hearing about this since early October and now it’s official: Dwayne Johnson and Dany Garcia’s Seven Bucks-MGM movie Fighting With My Family will makes its world premiere at the Sundance Film Festival as the surprise screening on Monday, Jan. 28th. The movie, from MGM, opens on Feb. 14.
Previous Sundance surprise screenings include Universal/Blumhouse’s ultimate blockbuster and Oscar winner, Jordan Peele’s Get Out, Fox’s Eddie the Eagle and last year’s Jason Reitman-directed pic Tully.
This is the first time a Seven Bucks film has been selected to screen at Sundance. Johnson and Dany Garcia, along with their Seven Bucks President of Production, Hiram Garcia and Fighting With My Family writer/director Stephen Merchant, put their blood, sweat and tears into making this and are extremely proud of the film and they will all be attending the festival...
Previous Sundance surprise screenings include Universal/Blumhouse’s ultimate blockbuster and Oscar winner, Jordan Peele’s Get Out, Fox’s Eddie the Eagle and last year’s Jason Reitman-directed pic Tully.
This is the first time a Seven Bucks film has been selected to screen at Sundance. Johnson and Dany Garcia, along with their Seven Bucks President of Production, Hiram Garcia and Fighting With My Family writer/director Stephen Merchant, put their blood, sweat and tears into making this and are extremely proud of the film and they will all be attending the festival...
- 1/11/2019
- by Anthony D'Alessandro
- Deadline Film + TV
If you’ve smelled what Stephen Merchant has been cooking, you’re probably pretty excited to watch the first trailer for his upcoming movie, “Fighting With My Family,” which tells the life story of retired WWE Superstar and current “SmackDown Live” commissioner Paige.
Below is the dramedy’s logline, per MGM:
Based on a true story, “Fighting With My Family” follows reformed gangster Ricky, wife Julia, daughter Paige and son Zak as they make a living wrestling together in tiny venues. When Paige and Zak get the opportunity to try out for WWE, the family grabs a once-in-a-lifetime chance to turn their wildest dreams into a dazzling future. However, brother and sister quickly discover that to become superstars, both their talent and their relationship will be put to the test. “Fighting With My Family” is a heartwarming and smart comedy that proves everything is worth fighting for when it comes to family.
Below is the dramedy’s logline, per MGM:
Based on a true story, “Fighting With My Family” follows reformed gangster Ricky, wife Julia, daughter Paige and son Zak as they make a living wrestling together in tiny venues. When Paige and Zak get the opportunity to try out for WWE, the family grabs a once-in-a-lifetime chance to turn their wildest dreams into a dazzling future. However, brother and sister quickly discover that to become superstars, both their talent and their relationship will be put to the test. “Fighting With My Family” is a heartwarming and smart comedy that proves everything is worth fighting for when it comes to family.
- 11/14/2018
- by Tony Maglio
- The Wrap
Canne panel debate rise of digital giants at UK Film Centre.
UTA agent nm2817693 autoDavid Flynn[/link], whose clients include Michael Winterbottom, Laszlo Nemes and Rupert Wyatt, has claimed that everyone in the film business should be looking to benefit from the rise of digital giants Netflix and Amazon.
Speaking in Cannes during a panel at the UK Film Centre - Star Power: How to develop film projects to attract world-class talent - Flynn took the opportunity to weigh in on the subject matter that has dominated this year’s festival since day one.
“We can all benefit from it [the rise of Netflix and Amazon]. It’s not just agents – it’s producers, crews, everyone involved,” Flynn said.
“The Netflix model is an extraordinary business [which is] driven to increase its subscriber base. Amazon is one of the biggest companies in the world, and it now makes content.
“It’s forcing the studios to reassess how they do business. Whenever you have...
UTA agent nm2817693 autoDavid Flynn[/link], whose clients include Michael Winterbottom, Laszlo Nemes and Rupert Wyatt, has claimed that everyone in the film business should be looking to benefit from the rise of digital giants Netflix and Amazon.
Speaking in Cannes during a panel at the UK Film Centre - Star Power: How to develop film projects to attract world-class talent - Flynn took the opportunity to weigh in on the subject matter that has dominated this year’s festival since day one.
“We can all benefit from it [the rise of Netflix and Amazon]. It’s not just agents – it’s producers, crews, everyone involved,” Flynn said.
“The Netflix model is an extraordinary business [which is] driven to increase its subscriber base. Amazon is one of the biggest companies in the world, and it now makes content.
“It’s forcing the studios to reassess how they do business. Whenever you have...
- 5/21/2017
- by tom.grater@screendaily.com (Tom Grater)
- ScreenDaily
On Sunday agents and producers discuss what feature film offers talent in the boom era of high-end TV.
The line-up for the UK Film Centre at this year’s Cannes Film Festival (May 18-27) includes a talent talk with the producers of Yorgos Lanthimos’ The Killing Of A Sacred Deer, a discussion about Brexit and a panel on attracting world-class talent (hosted by Screen International editor Matt Mueller).
The UK Film Centre is run by We Are UK Film, whose partners include the British Film Institute (BFI), the British Film Commission (Bfc), British Council, Creative Scotland, Film London and Northern Ireland Screen.
The UK Film Centre will be in Cannes from May 17-26 at Pavilion 119 of the International Village Riviera and is open for international and UK delegates from 9am – 6pm.
The full events line-up is below:
Monday 22Nd
The Practical Guide to Closing your Film (In association with European Film Bonds): 10.00 - 11.00
Experts including [link=nm...
The line-up for the UK Film Centre at this year’s Cannes Film Festival (May 18-27) includes a talent talk with the producers of Yorgos Lanthimos’ The Killing Of A Sacred Deer, a discussion about Brexit and a panel on attracting world-class talent (hosted by Screen International editor Matt Mueller).
The UK Film Centre is run by We Are UK Film, whose partners include the British Film Institute (BFI), the British Film Commission (Bfc), British Council, Creative Scotland, Film London and Northern Ireland Screen.
The UK Film Centre will be in Cannes from May 17-26 at Pavilion 119 of the International Village Riviera and is open for international and UK delegates from 9am – 6pm.
The full events line-up is below:
Monday 22Nd
The Practical Guide to Closing your Film (In association with European Film Bonds): 10.00 - 11.00
Experts including [link=nm...
- 5/21/2017
- ScreenDaily
Panels will tackle Brexit, attracting world class talent and working with Yorgos Lanthimos.
The line-up for the UK Film Centre at this year’s Cannes Film Festival (May 18-27) has been announced.
The free events include a talent talk with the producers of Yorgos Lanthimos’ The Killing Of A Sacred Deer, a discussion about Brexit and a panel on attracting world-class talent (hosted by Screen International editor Matt Mueller).
The UK Film Centre is run by We Are UK Film, whose partners include the British Film Institute (BFI), the British Film Commission (Bfc), British Council, Creative Scotland, Film London and Northern Ireland Screen.
The UK Film Centre will be in Cannes from May 17-26 at Pavilion 119 of the International Village Riviera and is open for international and UK delegates from 9am – 6pm.
The full events line-up is below:
Thursday 18th
Films without Borders (screening): 14.00 - 15.00
A showcase of films from young people living in challenging circumstances...
The line-up for the UK Film Centre at this year’s Cannes Film Festival (May 18-27) has been announced.
The free events include a talent talk with the producers of Yorgos Lanthimos’ The Killing Of A Sacred Deer, a discussion about Brexit and a panel on attracting world-class talent (hosted by Screen International editor Matt Mueller).
The UK Film Centre is run by We Are UK Film, whose partners include the British Film Institute (BFI), the British Film Commission (Bfc), British Council, Creative Scotland, Film London and Northern Ireland Screen.
The UK Film Centre will be in Cannes from May 17-26 at Pavilion 119 of the International Village Riviera and is open for international and UK delegates from 9am – 6pm.
The full events line-up is below:
Thursday 18th
Films without Borders (screening): 14.00 - 15.00
A showcase of films from young people living in challenging circumstances...
- 5/15/2017
- ScreenDaily
“Your story Billy, no longer belongs to you. It’s America story now.”
Visionary Director Ang Lee’s Billy Lynn’S Long Halftime Walk Arrives on 4K Ultra HD for the Ultimate Immersive Home Entertainment Experience.
A two-time Academy Award® winner for Best Director, Ang Lee (Brokeback Mountain, 2005; Life of Pi, 2012) brings his extraordinary vision to Billy Lynn’S Long Halftime Walk, debuting on three-disc 4K Ultra HD™/Blu-ray 3D™/Blu-ray™ Combo Pack, Blu-ray, DVD and digital February 14 from Sony Pictures Home Entertainment. In an industrywide first, the 4K presentation of the film is displayed at 60 frames per second (Fps), versus the standard 24 Fps, offering a first-of-its-kind, unique, and immersive viewing experience. Dubbed a “groundbreaking masterpiece” (Mark S. Allen, ABC-tv), Billy Lynn’S Long Halftime Walk follows a 19-year-old soldier as he is brought home for a victory tour after a harrowing battle in Iraq. Through flashbacks,...
Visionary Director Ang Lee’s Billy Lynn’S Long Halftime Walk Arrives on 4K Ultra HD for the Ultimate Immersive Home Entertainment Experience.
A two-time Academy Award® winner for Best Director, Ang Lee (Brokeback Mountain, 2005; Life of Pi, 2012) brings his extraordinary vision to Billy Lynn’S Long Halftime Walk, debuting on three-disc 4K Ultra HD™/Blu-ray 3D™/Blu-ray™ Combo Pack, Blu-ray, DVD and digital February 14 from Sony Pictures Home Entertainment. In an industrywide first, the 4K presentation of the film is displayed at 60 frames per second (Fps), versus the standard 24 Fps, offering a first-of-its-kind, unique, and immersive viewing experience. Dubbed a “groundbreaking masterpiece” (Mark S. Allen, ABC-tv), Billy Lynn’S Long Halftime Walk follows a 19-year-old soldier as he is brought home for a victory tour after a harrowing battle in Iraq. Through flashbacks,...
- 2/4/2017
- by Tom Stockman
- WeAreMovieGeeks.com
Ang Lee’s drama will receive its world premiere as a special presentation on October 14 in what will be the first public screening of a narrative film shot in 4K, native 3D and 120 frames per second.
TriStar Pictures and Studio 8 film produced Billy Lynn’s Long Halftime Walk in association with LStar Capital, Film4, Bona Film Group and Fosun Media. TriStar will release the film in a range of 2D and 3D formats in North America on November 11.
“Billy Lynn’s Long Halftime Walk astonished me, and it moved me deeply – in the grandest way, as a story of America in the years after the invasion of Iraq, and on the most intimate person-to-person wavelength,” said New York Film Festival director and selection committee chair Kent Jones.
“Ang Lee has always gone deep into the nuances of the emotions between his characters, and that’s exactly what drove him to push cinema technology to new levels. It’s all...
TriStar Pictures and Studio 8 film produced Billy Lynn’s Long Halftime Walk in association with LStar Capital, Film4, Bona Film Group and Fosun Media. TriStar will release the film in a range of 2D and 3D formats in North America on November 11.
“Billy Lynn’s Long Halftime Walk astonished me, and it moved me deeply – in the grandest way, as a story of America in the years after the invasion of Iraq, and on the most intimate person-to-person wavelength,” said New York Film Festival director and selection committee chair Kent Jones.
“Ang Lee has always gone deep into the nuances of the emotions between his characters, and that’s exactly what drove him to push cinema technology to new levels. It’s all...
- 8/22/2016
- by jeremykay67@gmail.com (Jeremy Kay)
- ScreenDaily
The Film Society of Lincoln Center has added, as expected, Ang Lee’s latest technological advance, “Billy Lynn’s Long Halftime Walk.” The special world premiere presentation of the film will screen on Friday, October 14, at AMC Lincoln Square. The Nyff presents the first public screening of a full-length narrative film shot in 4K, native 3D at the ultra high rate of 120 frames-per-second.
At CinemaCon, Sony studio chairman Tom Rothman, much as he did when he introduced Ang Lee’s “Life of Pi” — in his old guise at Fox — in 2012 as a potential Oscar contender and game-changer, launched the Sony show with Lee’s follow-up, a true-life drama about an Iraq War vet who is turned into a hero. Kristen Stewart co-stars as his sister. Nyff opener “Life of Pi” went on to win Lee the Best Director Oscar; Sony will push for Lee’s new film as an Oscar contender.
At CinemaCon, Sony studio chairman Tom Rothman, much as he did when he introduced Ang Lee’s “Life of Pi” — in his old guise at Fox — in 2012 as a potential Oscar contender and game-changer, launched the Sony show with Lee’s follow-up, a true-life drama about an Iraq War vet who is turned into a hero. Kristen Stewart co-stars as his sister. Nyff opener “Life of Pi” went on to win Lee the Best Director Oscar; Sony will push for Lee’s new film as an Oscar contender.
- 8/22/2016
- by Anne Thompson
- Thompson on Hollywood
The Film Society of Lincoln Center has added, as expected, Ang Lee’s latest technological advance, “Billy Lynn’s Long Halftime Walk.” The special world premiere presentation of the film will screen on Friday, October 14, at AMC Lincoln Square. The Nyff presents the first public screening of a full-length narrative film shot in 4K, native 3D at the ultra high rate of 120 frames-per-second.
At CinemaCon, Sony studio chairman Tom Rothman, much as he did when he introduced Ang Lee’s “Life of Pi” — in his old guise at Fox — in 2012 as a potential Oscar contender and game-changer, launched the Sony show with Lee’s follow-up, a true-life drama about an Iraq War vet who is turned into a hero. Kristen Stewart co-stars as his sister. Nyff opener “Life of Pi” went on to win Lee the Best Director Oscar; Sony will push for Lee’s new film as an Oscar contender.
At CinemaCon, Sony studio chairman Tom Rothman, much as he did when he introduced Ang Lee’s “Life of Pi” — in his old guise at Fox — in 2012 as a potential Oscar contender and game-changer, launched the Sony show with Lee’s follow-up, a true-life drama about an Iraq War vet who is turned into a hero. Kristen Stewart co-stars as his sister. Nyff opener “Life of Pi” went on to win Lee the Best Director Oscar; Sony will push for Lee’s new film as an Oscar contender.
- 8/22/2016
- by Anne Thompson
- Indiewire
Vin Diesel and Chris Tucker have joined the cast of Ang Lee's upcoming film adaptation of Ben Fountain's acclaimed novel "Billy Lynn's Long Halftime Walk" at TriStar Pictures.
Shot in native 3D and 4K, and aiming to be filmed at a high frame rate, the film unfolds in real time during the course of a football game (though does contain flashbacks). Joe Alwyn plays a 19-year-old private who survives a harrowing Iraq battle that is captured by news cameras.
His team are brought home by the U.S. administration for a promotional tour, culminating in the halftime show of a Thanksgiving Day football game. Unbeknownst to all, there is turmoil as the group faces an imminent return to the war.
Joe Alwyn, Steve Martin, Garrett Hedlund and Kristen Stewart also star in the film which Lee, Marc Platt, Stephen Cornwell, Rhodri Thomas and Simon Cornwell are producing. Filming begins this month.
Shot in native 3D and 4K, and aiming to be filmed at a high frame rate, the film unfolds in real time during the course of a football game (though does contain flashbacks). Joe Alwyn plays a 19-year-old private who survives a harrowing Iraq battle that is captured by news cameras.
His team are brought home by the U.S. administration for a promotional tour, culminating in the halftime show of a Thanksgiving Day football game. Unbeknownst to all, there is turmoil as the group faces an imminent return to the war.
Joe Alwyn, Steve Martin, Garrett Hedlund and Kristen Stewart also star in the film which Lee, Marc Platt, Stephen Cornwell, Rhodri Thomas and Simon Cornwell are producing. Filming begins this month.
- 4/8/2015
- by Garth Franklin
- Dark Horizons
Ang Lee has found the star for his next film. Newcomer Joe Alwyn is in talks to play the titular role in “Billy Lynn’s Long Halftime Walk,” an individual with knowledge of the project told TheWrap. Jeff Robinov’s Studio 8 and Chinese distribution company Bona Film Group are onboard alongside Tristar and Film4. Simon Beaufoy, who won an Oscar for writing “Slumdog Millionaire,” adapted the book for Film4 and The Ink Factory. The film will be produced by Marc Platt, Ink Factory’s Stephen Cornwell, Rhodri Thomas and Simon Cornwell, and Lee. Filming is set for April. The...
- 2/26/2015
- by Linda Ge
- The Wrap
Studio 8 and Bona to Partner With Tristar on Ang Lee’s Adaptation of Billy Lynn’S Long Halftime Walk
Jeff Robinov’s Fosun-backed Studio 8, together with Chinese distribution company Bona Film Group, will partner with Tom Rothman’s TriStar and Film4 on the adaptation of Ben Fountain’s acclaimed novel Billy Lynn’s Long Halftime Walk, to be directed by three-time Oscar-winner Ang Lee.
The deal brings together several members of the family of companies at Sony Pictures, which will distribute the film worldwide, except for Greater China, which Bona Film Group Ltd will handle. Film 4 will have UK free television.
The film is now set for start of principal photography in mid-April and casting is underway.
In the film, Bravo Company, and 19-year-old private Billy Lynn, survive a harrowing Iraq battle that is captured by news cameras. They are brought home by the Us administration for a promotional tour, culminating at the spectacular halftime show of aThanksgiving Day football game, all while facing an imminent return to the war.
The deal brings together several members of the family of companies at Sony Pictures, which will distribute the film worldwide, except for Greater China, which Bona Film Group Ltd will handle. Film 4 will have UK free television.
The film is now set for start of principal photography in mid-April and casting is underway.
In the film, Bravo Company, and 19-year-old private Billy Lynn, survive a harrowing Iraq battle that is captured by news cameras. They are brought home by the Us administration for a promotional tour, culminating at the spectacular halftime show of aThanksgiving Day football game, all while facing an imminent return to the war.
- 1/28/2015
- by Melissa Thompson
- WeAreMovieGeeks.com
Jeff Robinov‘s Studio 8 and Chinese distribution company Bona Film Group have come onboard Tristar and Film 4’s “Billy Lynn’s Long Halftime Walk,” to be directed by Ang Lee.
Simon Beaufoy, who won an Oscar for writing “Slumdog Millionaire,” adapted the book for Film4 and The Ink Factory. The film will be produced by Marc Platt, Ink Factory’s Stephen Cornwell, Rhodri Thomas and Simon Cornwell, and Lee.
Also Read: TheWrap’s 25 Most Anticipated Movies of 2015: From ‘Fifty Shades’ to ‘Star Wars’ and ‘Spectre’
Filming is set for April and casting is now underway.
The dark satire...
Simon Beaufoy, who won an Oscar for writing “Slumdog Millionaire,” adapted the book for Film4 and The Ink Factory. The film will be produced by Marc Platt, Ink Factory’s Stephen Cornwell, Rhodri Thomas and Simon Cornwell, and Lee.
Also Read: TheWrap’s 25 Most Anticipated Movies of 2015: From ‘Fifty Shades’ to ‘Star Wars’ and ‘Spectre’
Filming is set for April and casting is now underway.
The dark satire...
- 1/27/2015
- by Linda Ge
- The Wrap
Ang Lee never met a literary adaptation he couldn’t tackle, it seems. The multi-Oscar winner, who’s been largely absent since winning Best Director for Life of Pi, has picked his next project: Ben Fountain’s celebrated 2012 novel Billy Lynn’s Long Halftime Walk, about a group of Iraq war vets, including 19-year-old Billy Lynn, who must endure a Thanksgiving Day football game in Texas on their exhaustive “Victory Tour” before they return to the war. TriStar Productions and Film4 announced the news Thursday.
“I am very excited to be going back to work and to be collaborating with my old friend Tom Rothman,...
“I am very excited to be going back to work and to be collaborating with my old friend Tom Rothman,...
- 9/19/2014
- by Lindsey Bahr
- EW - Inside Movies
Tom Rothman’s TriStar Productions and Film4 announced today that the three-time Oscar-winner Ang Lee has chosen an adaptation of Ben Fountain’s acclaimed novel Billy Lynn’s Long Halftime Walk as his next film, his first since winning the Academy Award for directing the groundbreaking Life of Pi.
The film will be produced by Lee, Ink Factory’s Stephen Cornwell, Rhodri Thomas and Simon Cornwell and by Film4, who originally optioned the book. Simon Beaufoy wrote the script. TriStar has been developing the project with Film4 and Ink Factory since opening its doors at the end of last year. Tessa Ross, who oversaw Film and Drama for Film4 until recently being named to run the UK’s National Theatre, was instrumental on behalf of that studio.
Making the movie for TriStar returns Lee to the Sony Pictures umbrella, where he enjoyed great success with Crouching Tiger, Hidden Dragon and Sense and Sensibility.
The film will be produced by Lee, Ink Factory’s Stephen Cornwell, Rhodri Thomas and Simon Cornwell and by Film4, who originally optioned the book. Simon Beaufoy wrote the script. TriStar has been developing the project with Film4 and Ink Factory since opening its doors at the end of last year. Tessa Ross, who oversaw Film and Drama for Film4 until recently being named to run the UK’s National Theatre, was instrumental on behalf of that studio.
Making the movie for TriStar returns Lee to the Sony Pictures umbrella, where he enjoyed great success with Crouching Tiger, Hidden Dragon and Sense and Sensibility.
- 9/19/2014
- by Michelle McCue
- WeAreMovieGeeks.com
Exclusive: Ang Lee will next direct an adaptation of Ben Fountain’s novel Billy Lynn’s Long Halftime Walk. It is Lee’s first film since he won the Best Director Oscar for Life Of Pi, and he’s reuniting with Tom Rothman at TriStar. Rothman, who continues to put together filmmaker-centric projects at his Sony-based label, ran Fox and worked closely with Lee on that difficult, groundbreaking, Oscar-winning 3D film that grossed $600 million worldwide. TriStar is teamed with Film4 on the picture, which will begin production in the spring.
It was expected Lee’s next film would be the Peter Morgan-scripted boxing pic about the Thrilla In Manila bout between Muhammad Ali and Joe Frazier, shot in 3D at Universal. They are still working on a budget and the visual effects and look of that picture, but clearly Lee was eager to get back behind the camera.
Billy Lynn...
It was expected Lee’s next film would be the Peter Morgan-scripted boxing pic about the Thrilla In Manila bout between Muhammad Ali and Joe Frazier, shot in 3D at Universal. They are still working on a budget and the visual effects and look of that picture, but clearly Lee was eager to get back behind the camera.
Billy Lynn...
- 9/18/2014
- by Mike Fleming Jr
- Deadline
Ang Lee will adapt Billy Lynn’s Long Halftime Walk at Tom Rothman’s TriStar, his first project after Life Of Pi earned him a best director Oscar in 2013.
The Taiwan-born filmmaker will direct from Simon Beaufoy’s adapted screenplay of Ben Fountain’s 2012 National Book Critics Circle Award winner.
The story tells of a squad of Iraq veterans who embark on a bizarre victory tour in the Us before redeploying.
TriStar partners on the production with Film4, which optioned the book. Lee will produce with Ink Factory’s Stephen Cornwell, Rhodri Thomas and Simon Cornwell and Film4.
Filming is set to commence in spring 2015. David Beaubaire will oversee for TriStar.
Lee also earned a best director Academy Award for Brokeback Mountain in 2006.
The Taiwan-born filmmaker will direct from Simon Beaufoy’s adapted screenplay of Ben Fountain’s 2012 National Book Critics Circle Award winner.
The story tells of a squad of Iraq veterans who embark on a bizarre victory tour in the Us before redeploying.
TriStar partners on the production with Film4, which optioned the book. Lee will produce with Ink Factory’s Stephen Cornwell, Rhodri Thomas and Simon Cornwell and Film4.
Filming is set to commence in spring 2015. David Beaubaire will oversee for TriStar.
Lee also earned a best director Academy Award for Brokeback Mountain in 2006.
- 9/18/2014
- by jeremykay67@gmail.com (Jeremy Kay)
- ScreenDaily
"Life of Pi" and "Brokeback Mountain" director Ang Lee is the frontrunner to helm "Billy Lynn's Long Halftime Walk," a film adaptation of Ben Fountain's acclaimed Iraq War novel for Film4 and The Ink Factory.
The dark satire follows a ninteen-year-old Texas-born infantryman and his fellow U.S. servicemen who survive a firefight in Iraq in 2005. The Bush administration brings them home for a victory lap that leads them to the Dallas Cowboys’ football stadium where they're honored during the team's Thanksgiving halftime show. Then they return to war.
Lee has been working on a 3D boxing film for Universal that will include the famed 'Thrilla in Manila' fight between Frazier and Ali, however that project is said to be on hold for now due to budgetary reasons.
Simon Beaufoy ("Slumdog Millionaire") has adapted the book while Simon Cornwell, Stephen Cornwell and Rhodri Thomas are slated to produce.
The dark satire follows a ninteen-year-old Texas-born infantryman and his fellow U.S. servicemen who survive a firefight in Iraq in 2005. The Bush administration brings them home for a victory lap that leads them to the Dallas Cowboys’ football stadium where they're honored during the team's Thanksgiving halftime show. Then they return to war.
Lee has been working on a 3D boxing film for Universal that will include the famed 'Thrilla in Manila' fight between Frazier and Ali, however that project is said to be on hold for now due to budgetary reasons.
Simon Beaufoy ("Slumdog Millionaire") has adapted the book while Simon Cornwell, Stephen Cornwell and Rhodri Thomas are slated to produce.
- 9/12/2014
- by Garth Franklin
- Dark Horizons
Two-time Oscar winner Ang Lee is the frontrunner to direct “Billy Lynn's Long Halftime Walk” based on the critically acclaimed Iraq War novel by Ben Fountain, an individual familiar with the project has told TheWrap. Simon Beaufoy, who won an Oscar for writing “Slumdog Millionaire,” adapted the book for Film4 and The Ink Factory, whose Simon Cornwell, Stephen Cornwell and Rhodri Thomas are producing “Billy Lynn.” A representative for Lee had no comment, while The Ink Factory did not immediately respond to a request for comment. Also read: Ang Lee Drops Out of FX's ‘Tyrant’ Pilot Described as the...
- 9/12/2014
- by Jeff Sneider
- The Wrap
Mads Mikkelsen has emerged as the favourite for a starring role in "Snowtown" director Justin Kurzel's upcoming adaptation of John le Carré's espionage thriller "Our Kind of Traitor".
Hossein Amini ("Drive," "Snow White and the Huntsman") penned the script which follows a young couple who are persuaded into helping a charismatic Russian millionaire to defect to British Intelligence. The story takes place across London, Paris, Moscow and Tangiers.
Ralph Fiennes and Jessica Chastain have also been rumored for the project. Stephen Cornwell, Simon Cornwell, Rhodri Thomas, Gail Egan and Andrea Calderwood will produce.
Source: The Wrap...
Hossein Amini ("Drive," "Snow White and the Huntsman") penned the script which follows a young couple who are persuaded into helping a charismatic Russian millionaire to defect to British Intelligence. The story takes place across London, Paris, Moscow and Tangiers.
Ralph Fiennes and Jessica Chastain have also been rumored for the project. Stephen Cornwell, Simon Cornwell, Rhodri Thomas, Gail Egan and Andrea Calderwood will produce.
Source: The Wrap...
- 11/11/2012
- by Garth Franklin
- Dark Horizons
Our Kind of Traitor lands Snowtown Murders' Justin Kurzel Australian director Kurzel is set to take the wheel of the contemporary thriller which follows a relationship between a young couple and a charismatic Russian criminal they are aiding to defect, reports The Hollywood Reporter. Stephen Cornwell and Simon Cornwell are producing alongside The Ink Factory's Rhodri Thomas and Potboiler Productions' Andrea Calderwood, with filming starting in the fall later this year in London, Paris, Moscow and Tangiers. Tessa Ross of Film4 is serving as executive producer alongside with John le Carre...
- 5/8/2012
- Upcoming-Movies.com
Our Kind of Traitor lands Snowtown Murders' Justin Kurzel Australian director Kurzel is set to take the wheel of the contemporary thriller which follows a relationship between a young couple and a charismatic Russian criminal they are aiding to defect, reports The Hollywood Reporter. Stephen Cornwell and Simon Cornwell are producing alongside The Ink Factory's Rhodri Thomas and Potboiler Productions' Andrea Calderwood, with filming starting in the fall later this year in London, Paris, Moscow and Tangiers. Tessa Ross of Film4 is serving as executive producer alongside with John le Carre...
- 5/8/2012
- Upcoming-Movies.com
Aussie filmmaker Justin Kurzel ("The Snowtown Murders") is set to direct an adaptation of John le Carre's novel "Our Kind of Traitor" for The Ink Factory and Potboiler Productions says Variety.
Hossein Amini ("Drive," "Snow White and the Huntsman") penned the script which follows a young couple who are persuaded into helping a charismatic Russian criminal to defect. The story takes place across London, Paris, Moscow and Tangiers.
Stephen Cornwell, Simon Cornwell, Rhodri Thomas, Gail Egan and Andrea Calderwood will produce. Shooting aims to kick off this Fall.
Hossein Amini ("Drive," "Snow White and the Huntsman") penned the script which follows a young couple who are persuaded into helping a charismatic Russian criminal to defect. The story takes place across London, Paris, Moscow and Tangiers.
Stephen Cornwell, Simon Cornwell, Rhodri Thomas, Gail Egan and Andrea Calderwood will produce. Shooting aims to kick off this Fall.
- 5/5/2012
- by Garth Franklin
- Dark Horizons
James McTeigue is probably best known as V For Vendetta helmer, but we’ll soon have a chance to add another title next to his name, because according to the latest reports, he has come on board to direct the character-driven thriller Message from the King.
Well, this definitely sounds like an interesting project for man who recently wrapped the Edgar Allen Poe-centered thriller The Raven.
At this moment we know that McTeigue’s newest project will center on Jacob King, an enigmatic outsider who comes to Los Angeles to investigate the sudden and mysterious disappearance of his sister.
Oliver Butcher and Stephen Cornwell wrote the script which FilmNation Entertainment’s head of production Aaron Ryder is producing with Rhodri Thomas of The Ink Factory and Ash Shah.
That’s an interesting team, indeed. In addition to that, Rhodri Thomas from The Ink Factory revealed that “this script harks...
Well, this definitely sounds like an interesting project for man who recently wrapped the Edgar Allen Poe-centered thriller The Raven.
At this moment we know that McTeigue’s newest project will center on Jacob King, an enigmatic outsider who comes to Los Angeles to investigate the sudden and mysterious disappearance of his sister.
Oliver Butcher and Stephen Cornwell wrote the script which FilmNation Entertainment’s head of production Aaron Ryder is producing with Rhodri Thomas of The Ink Factory and Ash Shah.
That’s an interesting team, indeed. In addition to that, Rhodri Thomas from The Ink Factory revealed that “this script harks...
- 7/21/2011
- by Fiona
- Filmofilia
James McTeigue has signed on to direct thriller "Message from the King" for FilmNation, the company announced Wednesday. The movie follows Jacob King, "an enigmatic outsider who comes to Los Angeles to investigate the sudden and mysterious disappearance of his sister," according to a FilmNation press release. Oliver Butcher and Stephen Cornwell ("Unknown") wrote the script. Ryder is producing with Rhodri Thomas of The Ink Factory and Ash Shah. McTeigue, who directed "V for Vendetta," just wrapped "The Raven," which FilmNation and Intrepid Pictures produced and which Relativity Media will release on March...
- 7/21/2011
- by Joshua L. Weinstein
- The Wrap
V for Vendetta and The Raven director James McTeigue has now attached himself to helm Message from the King. Screenplay writers Oliver Butcher and Stephen Cornwell penned the scripwhich FilmNation Entertainment’s head of production Aaron Ryder is producing with Rhodri Thomas of The Ink Factory and Ash Shah. According to the press release, filming is scheduled to begin in the late fall.
This character-driven thriller centers on Jacob King, an enigmatic outsider who comes to Los Angeles to investigate the sudden and mysterious disappearance of his sister.
This will be McTeigue’s second outing with FilmNation Entertainment, the director has wrapped The Raven starring John Cusack as Edgar Allen Poe. The FilmNation produced film will be released on March 9th. The Raven will make an appearance at this year’s Comic-Con with both McTeigue and Ryder making an appearance to promote the film.
“After working with James on ‘The Raven...
This character-driven thriller centers on Jacob King, an enigmatic outsider who comes to Los Angeles to investigate the sudden and mysterious disappearance of his sister.
This will be McTeigue’s second outing with FilmNation Entertainment, the director has wrapped The Raven starring John Cusack as Edgar Allen Poe. The FilmNation produced film will be released on March 9th. The Raven will make an appearance at this year’s Comic-Con with both McTeigue and Ryder making an appearance to promote the film.
“After working with James on ‘The Raven...
- 7/21/2011
- by Mike Lee
- FusedFilm
While this one is perhaps best filed under the category of 'thriller', the word is that the upcoming Message From the King has enough of a sadistic bent to it that genre fans will probably really dig it too. Which is why it's getting a little mention here on DC.
Ninja Assassin director James McTeigue has signed on to direct Message From the King, a mystery/thriller in which the titular King is a rogue stranger who arrives in La to investigate the sudden disappearance of his sister. McTeigue will direct from a script penned by Oliver Butcher and Stephen Cornwell (the duo behind the terrible Unknown).
The film is to be produced by FilmNation Entertainment and The Ink Factory, whose head of production, Rhodri Thomas, delivered the following tidbit: “This script harks back to our favorite character-led thrillers of the 1970s but depicts Los Angeles in a distinctive, contemporary light.
Ninja Assassin director James McTeigue has signed on to direct Message From the King, a mystery/thriller in which the titular King is a rogue stranger who arrives in La to investigate the sudden disappearance of his sister. McTeigue will direct from a script penned by Oliver Butcher and Stephen Cornwell (the duo behind the terrible Unknown).
The film is to be produced by FilmNation Entertainment and The Ink Factory, whose head of production, Rhodri Thomas, delivered the following tidbit: “This script harks back to our favorite character-led thrillers of the 1970s but depicts Los Angeles in a distinctive, contemporary light.
- 7/20/2011
- by Masked Slasher
- DreadCentral.com
Comic Con is officially here. And, one of the hottest films to check out this week in Hall H is The Raven, directed by James McTeigue (V for Vendetta). The film is a thriller that revolves around a string of mysteries that take place towards the end of Edgar Allen Poe’s life. FilmNation, one of the production studios behind the film, was so happy with McTeigue’s work on The Raven that the studio has already signed on the Director to make Message from the King, from writers Oliver Butcher and Stephen Cornwell (Unknown). The Ink Factory and Ash Shah will also produce the film, slated to begin shooting late this year. FilmNation’s Aaron Ryder said, “After working with James on The Raven and then seeing a cut of the film, it was very clear to us that we needed to make his next movie. We are thrilled...
- 7/20/2011
- by Bags H.
- BuzzFocus.com
James McTeigue ("V For Vendetta") is set to direct "Message From the King" for FilmNation Entertainment reports Deadline.
The thriller centers on Jacob King, an enigmatic outsider who comes to La to investigate the sudden disappearance of his sister.
Oliver Butcher and Stephen Cornwell ("Unknown") penned the script. Aaron Ryder, Rhodri Thomas and Ash Shah will produce. Shooting begins in the late Fall.
The thriller centers on Jacob King, an enigmatic outsider who comes to La to investigate the sudden disappearance of his sister.
Oliver Butcher and Stephen Cornwell ("Unknown") penned the script. Aaron Ryder, Rhodri Thomas and Ash Shah will produce. Shooting begins in the late Fall.
- 7/20/2011
- by Garth Franklin
- Dark Horizons
Exclusive: V For Vendetta helmer James McTeigue has been set to direct Message From the King for FilmNation Entertainment. Scripted by Oliver Butcher and Stephen Cornwell (Unknown), the thriller centers on Jacob King, an enigmatic outsider who comes to La to investigate the sudden disappearance of his sister. FilmNation Entertainment production head Aaron Ryder will produce with Rhodri Thomas of The Ink Factory and Ash Shah and production will begin in late fall with FilmNation handling international sales. McTeigue just completed the John Cusack as Edgar Allan Poe thriller The Raven for FilmNation and Intrepid Pictures. Relativity Media releasing the film March 9 and McTeigue and Ryder will do a little tub-thumping for the film at Comic-Con. "After working with James on The Raven and then seeing a cut of the film, it was very clear to us that we needed to make his next movie," Ryder said. Cornwell and Butcher...
- 7/20/2011
- by MIKE FLEMING
- Deadline
James McTeigue's (V For Vendetta) next project is going to be Message From The King. He will direct a screenplay from Oliver Butcher and Stephen Cornwell (Unknown). The thriller centers on, "Jacob King, an enigmatic outsider who comes to La to investigate the sudden disappearance of his sister." FilmNation Entertainment production head Aaron Ryder will be producing with Rhodri Thomas and Ash Shah. McTeigue recently completed The Raven with John Cusack as Edgar Allan Poe....
- 7/20/2011
- by Niki Stephens
- JoBlo.com
James McTeigue ( V For Vendetta ) has come on board to direct Message from the King . Oliver Butcher and Stephen Cornwell ( Unknown ) wrote the script which FilmNation Entertainment's head of production Aaron Ryder is producing with Rhodri Thomas of The Ink Factory and Ash Shah. The film is slated to begin production in the late fall and FilmNation will also be handling international sales. This character-driven thriller centers on Jacob King, an enigmatic outsider who comes to Los Angeles to investigate the sudden and mysterious disappearance of his sister. This will be McTeigue's second outing with FilmNation Entertainment; he recently wrapped The Raven starring John Cusack as Edgar Allan Poe which FilmNation and Intrepid Pictures produced. Relativity Media will release The...
- 7/20/2011
- Comingsoon.net
Variety reports that Vin Diesel is attached to star in and produce an untitled action thriller written by Unknown screenwriters Oliver Butcher and Stephen Cornwell. The trade says that Diesel's One Race Productions is teaming with newly formed company the Ink Factory to produce the project. Diesel and his One Race partner Samantha Vincent will produce with the Ink Factory's Simon Cornwell and Rhodri Thomas. The project is based on a pitch from the writers though the storyline is being kept under wraps. Diesel is currently developing with writer/director David Twohy a new Riddick movie, which is scheduled to start filming this September in Canada. He is also attached to topline and produce MGM's The Machine . Diesel is scheduled to return as Dom in Fast & Furious 6...
- 7/13/2011
- Comingsoon.net
Untitled action thriller casts Vin Diesel. Diesel will also produce via his One Race Productions, teaming with the new Ink Factory, reports Variety. Project is being fast-tracked. Samantha Vincent of One Race is also producing with Ink Factory's Simon Cornwell and Rhodri Thomas. Logline is being kept under wraps for the untitled action thriller, however, the project will be based on a pitch from the writers. Diesel is enjoying a good run with the Fast and Furious franchise where he stars alongside frequent collaborator Paul Walker.
- 7/12/2011
- Upcoming-Movies.com
Untitled action thriller casts Vin Diesel. Diesel will also produce via his One Race Productions, teaming with the new Ink Factory, reports Variety. Project is being fast-tracked. Samantha Vincent of One Race is also producing with Ink Factory's Simon Cornwell and Rhodri Thomas. Logline is being kept under wraps for the untitled action thriller, however, the project will be based on a pitch from the writers. Diesel is enjoying a good run with the Fast and Furious franchise where he stars alongside frequent collaborator Paul Walker.
- 7/12/2011
- Upcoming-Movies.com
Untitled action thriller casts Vin Diesel. Diesel will also produce via his One Race Productions, teaming with the new Ink Factory, reports Variety. Project is being fast-tracked. Samantha Vincent of One Race is also producing with Ink Factory's Simon Cornwell and Rhodri Thomas. Logline is being kept under wraps for the untitled action thriller, however, the project will be based on a pitch from the writers. Diesel is enjoying a good run with the Fast and Furious franchise where he stars alongside frequent collaborator Paul Walker.
- 7/12/2011
- Upcoming-Movies.com
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