Sam Raimi is set to direct the island thriller Send Help, working from a screenplay by Freddy vs. Jason writers Damian Shannon and Mark Swift
Back in 2007, it was rumored that Sam Raimi would be producing a fantasy film with a screenplay written by Freddy vs. Jason and Friday the 13th 2009 writers Damian Shannon and Mark Swift. That didn’t pan out, but a decade later Raimi considered directing a Bermuda Triangle project that once had Shannon and Swift working on the script. Again, that didn’t pan out, with Scott Derrickson and more recently Marc Webb picking up the project after Raimi dropped it. In 2019, it was announced that Raimi would be directing an untitled island horror thriller for Columbia Pictures, working from a script by Shannon and Swift. Then the pandemic hit and Raimi went on to direct Doctor Strange in the Multiverse of Madness… but after spending some time in the Marvel universe, the Evil Dead creator has circled back to horror. Film scooper Daniel Richtman has revealed that the “untitled island horror thriller” is still alive and now going by the title Send Help – and he went on to share a logline and character details!
Here’s the logline: Comedy-adventure horror about a female put-upon employee and her jerk boss. On a business flight together with their company, the plane crashes on an island and only those two make it. She has serious survival skills which means she’s his only hope.
Character details:
LINDA: Smartest person in the room, but no one takes her seriously. Actor can’t be overly comedic, has to be believable in serious office setting. Eyed Sandra Bullock
BRADLEY: LINDA’S misogynistic boss.
When Send Help was first announced, it was said to be like “Misery meets Cast Away” in tone. Raimi said, “I am thrilled to be reunited with Columbia Pictures and reteaming with [Sony Motion Picture Group president] Sanford [Panitch] and [Columbia executive vp production] Ange [Giannetti]. I have been a fan of Shannon and Swift and we have found the perfect adventure to share with the world.“
Raimi is producing the film alongside Zainab Azizi for Raimi Productions.
I will always watch anything Sam Raimi makes, and it sounds like Send Help could be a fun addition to his filmography.
How does Send Help sound to you? Let us know by leaving a comment below.
JoBlo Media and NORTH STAR MACHINE CO. are teaming up to bring the joy of pinball to more pinheads in Montréal, Canada!
JoBlo Media and NORTH STAR COIN MACHINE CO. are joining forces to bring the joy of pinball to more pinheads in Montréal, Canada! On Monday, NORTH STAR COIN MACHINE CO. announced a new partnership with JoBlo CEO and resident pinball wizard Berge Garabedian (aka JoBlo) to fund an expansion of the amusement and arcade arena. After working with the City of Montréal to make pinball legal after decades of laws against it, NORTH STAR COIN MACHINE CO. expanded pinball and arcade machines around the city, bringing the joy of manipulating plungers, flippers, and bumpers to several locations, including Time Out Market, Centre Bell, and Montreal-Trudeau International Airport, and more!
Mr. Garabedian joins previous investors Charles Bombardier and Justin Evans (co-founder of Landr.com), and the primary executive team of Adam Kiesler and Charlotte Fillmore-Handlon for this exciting new venture.
“The world is in a bad place these days. People want to get away and just let loose, enjoy the day-to-day and that’s where a company like North Star comes in,” Garabedian said as part of an official press release. “I’m very proud to be a part of a team who’ve being doing an incredible job of cultivating happiness in the world, while building a highly profitable business at the same time. Watching their accelerated growth after surviving the Covid shutdowns has gotten me very excited to join this team and help them reach the next level.”
With Mr. Garabedian on board, NORTH STAR COIN MACHINE CO. aims to introduce more opportunities to enjoy the thrill of gaming in select parts of Montréal, such as the Montreal-Trudeau International Airport. The expansion also strives to increase its presence in multiple Montréal brew pubs and enable the launch of a new large-scale arcade location in Montréal.
Berge Garabedian’s personal arcade-style basement.
“I consider myself very lucky to have found a passion in my life that I was able to make a living from as an adult,” Garabedian said while taking stock in his hard work to build an essential and creative corner of the entertainment industry. “One that allowed me to combine my pure love of movies with my entrepreneurial business background. Today I’m happy to announce a new investment that allows me to partner with the best pinball/arcade company in all of Montreal, Canada, dudes who had to take the city to court in order to get pinball back in the bars! Gotta love it.”
JoBlo himself playing pinball
In addition to founding JoBlo.com, producing film projects, and establishing an expansive YouTube network focusing on the film and entertainment industry, Mr. Garabedian is an avid pinball and arcade cabinet player, libation enthusiast, and a hell of a Halloween party planner. If you’re lucky enough to be invited to his place, prepare for an evening of pinball, delicious beer, and a showcase of movie memorabilia (pictured above).
This new pact marks the beginning of an exciting era for pinball and arcade gaming. Put your quarters up, and shoot for the high score! If you’d like to see more of what North Star is all about, check out their Instagram below:
DOYLESTOWN, Pa., November 2, 2023 (Newswire.com)
-
Dwayne Johnson’s Project Rock and Under Armour are teaming up through the latest Project Rock X UA Freedom Collection to highlight the impact of Travis Manion Foundation (TMF), one of the nation’s leading veteran service organizations. Through the support of Under Armour and the UA Freedom initiative, Travis Manion Foundation empowers veterans and families of fallen military members to serve their communities and develop the next generation of leaders.
In partnership with Under Armour, Project Rock is releasing its newest line, designed with gratitude for all our veterans do. The collection proudly supports the Travis Manion Foundation in their inspiring efforts to unite communities by developing programs, training opportunities and events to empower veterans and families of the fallen. Dedicated to 1stLt Travis Manion, who made the ultimate sacrifice for the safety of his patrol in 2007, the foundation carries on the legacy of selfless service and leadership embodied by Manion.
Through the campaign, Under Armour and Project Rock released a video sharing the story of Brian “Tosh” Chontosh, a United States Marine Corps veteran, recipient of the prestigious Navy Cross, and current United States Congressional Medal of Honor nominee. Since hanging up his uniform after 20 years of service, Tosh has embraced his passion for helping veterans, primarily by continuing their personal development journey. Through his work with TMF, Tosh has led expeditions for the organization’s Spartan Leadership Program, a seven-month leadership experience for veterans and families of the fallen. He has been credited for pushing participants to improve their sense of resilience and grit, ultimately delivering what many have called a “life-changing” experience.
“It’s a privilege for Under Armour and Project Rock to support Brian Chontosh and the Travis Manion Foundation,” said Stephanie Linnartz, President & CEO of Under Armour. “UA Freedom is honored to stand behind the work Brian is doing to fight for something bigger than himself, and to support our military and veteran communities.”
“Travis Manion Foundation is honored to collaborate once again with Under Armour and Dwayne Johnson’s Project Rock this Veterans Day to highlight the work of TMF and all of those who have served our nation,” said Ryan Manion, CEO, Travis Manion Foundation. “Through this collaboration and Under Armour’s ongoing support of the Character Does Matter program, TMF is able to empower more veterans like Brian Chontosh on their own journey to identify their sense of purpose, lead in their communities and serve as positive role models for future generations.”
“Proud to drop our Veteran’s Day Project Rock collection in honor and gratitude of our men and women who have served and continue to serve our great country,” said Dwayne Johnson. “Always a privilege to sweat in this empowering gear. Thank you for your service.”
TMF’s Character Does Matter Program provides opportunities for veterans and families of fallen heroes to teach character and leadership lessons to youth and young adults. The Character Does Matter Program addresses two major issues: First, more than 55% of veterans report feeling disconnected from civilian life after separating from the military. Second, more than one in three young adults have never had a positive role model or mentor. Through this program, veterans gain purpose and a new role in their community, as well as the platform to engage our youth in the essential discussion of character and servant leadership. This process benefits our veterans, our youth, and our nation--one community at a time.
Under Armour is the exclusive Athletic Apparel Sponsor for TMF and the exclusive National Presenting Sponsor of Travis Manion Foundation’s Character Does Matter Program. Through this partnership, Travis Manion Foundation's Character Does Matter program powered by Under Armour has provided over 550,000 youth nationwide with character education delivered by trained and vetted Veteran Mentors.
Under Armour proudly offers a Military and First Responder discount year-round in-store and on UA.com and has doubled its standing discount in recognition of Military Family Appreciation Month. For full details, visit this link.
About Travis Manion Foundation: Travis Manion Foundation (TMF) unites communities to strengthen America's national character by empowering veterans and families of fallen heroes to develop and lead future generations. In 2007, 1stLt Travis Manion (USMC) was killed in Iraq while saving his wounded teammates. Today, Travis' legacy lives on in the words he spoke before leaving for his final deployment, "If Not Me, Then Who..." Guided by this mantra, veterans continue their service, develop strong relationships with their communities, and thrive in their post-military lives by serving as character role models to youth. As a result, communities prosper and the character of our nation’s heroes lives on in the next generation. Learn more at www.travismanion.org.
About Under Armour Freedom Initiative: Under Armour, Inc., headquartered in Baltimore, Maryland, is a leading innovator, marketer and distributor of branded performance athletic apparel, footwear, and accessories. Designed to make all athletes better, Under Armour’s – UA Freedom Initiative – started in 2010 with a singular mission to support and inspire the brave men and women dedicated to protecting us, every day.
About Project Rock: Founded in 2017, Project Rock is the innovative performance brand from Dwayne Johnson and Under Armour, built for the hardest workers in the room. Wear-tested by Johnson in the Iron Paradise, Project Rock gives you the tools and the motivation to support the most intense workouts. Featuring training footwear, apparel, and accessories, the brand represents the strength, resilience and mana needed to power through any obstacle.
Media Contact - Ed Donovan, Director, Communications, Travis Manion Foundation, (610) 220-1441, [email protected]
Contact Information:
Elizabeth Aucamp
Account Executive [email protected]
(704) 249-1430
SEATTLE, November 2, 2023 (Newswire.com)
-
The "Son of Hamas" author and Award Recipient for Best Documentary - The Green Prince, Mosab Hassan Yousef, will be joining the Pursuit NW Church.
Sunday - Nov. 5th - 4:30 p.m. - Pro-Israel march starting in Red Square (UW) and ending at the Pursuit Seattle Campus. The march will be a unity demonstration with Christians and Jews standing together to voice their support for the State of Israel and the Jewish people.
Sunday - Nov. 5th - 6 p.m. - Service with Mosab atPursuit Seattle Campus. Mosab will share his incredible story about leaving behind a life of terror.
Monday, Nov. 6th - 6 p.m. - Special screeningof The Green Prince (documentary movie on Mosab’s life) and Q+A book signing at Pursuit Snohomish Campus.
About Mosab
Mosab was born on the West Bank of Ramallah, in 1978, His father, Sheikh Hassan Yousef, is the founder of Hamas, an infamous terrorist organization responsible for countless suicide bombings and other deadly attacks against Israel. Yousef was an integral part of the movement and was imprisoned several times by the Israeli intelligence service. He withstood torture in prison only to discover Hamas was torturing its own people in an endless search for collaborators.
He began to question who his enemies really were—Israel? Hamas? America? After a random encounter with a British tourist, Yousef started a six-year quest that jeopardized Hamas, endangered his family, and threatened his life. He has since embraced the Christian faith and sought political asylum in America.
The Pursuit Northwest is a non-denominational church that has campuses in Snohomish, Seattle, and online. They exist to glorify Jesus and, in doing so, bring people into an encounter with the presence of God. These events will be co-sponsored with two Jewish organizations- www.standwithus.com and Oregon for Israel. For more information: [email protected].
4740 17th Ave NE Seattle, WA / 265 Pine Ave Snohomish, WA.
Contact Information:
Russell Johnson
Pastor [email protected]
206-383-9286
Scott Adkins discusses his rise to martial arts fame, playing Killa in John Wick: Chapter 4, and his ambitions for the future.
When most people think of martial arts masters, names like Bruce Lee, Donnie Yen, Chuck Norris, Michael Jai White, Cynthia Rothrock, Jean-Claude Van Damme, and Michelle Yeoh come to mind. Still, Hollywood is ripe with what some would call unsung industry heroes, such as Scott Adkins, a powerhouse of talent on several fronts. In a detailed article featured in The Hollywood Reporter, Alex Ritman delves into Adkins’ origin, a quest for the spotlight, and reputation for being one of the hardest working badasses in Tinseltown.
In addition to being a charismatic actor, Adkins is a gifted student of many martial arts disciplines, including Taekwondo, Judo, Karate, Ninjitsu, Capoeira, Krav Maga, Wushu, Muay Thai, Kung Fu, Jeet Kune Do, Kickboxing and Brazilian and Jui Jitsu. His passion for elevating his body and spirit began near the age of 10 when the captivating Bruce Lee inspired Adkins to study Judo. After getting mugged at age 13, Adkins expanded his training to include Taekwondo and Kickboxing, with Jean-Claude Van Damme as a source of inspiration. Adkins likens Van Damme’s Kickboxer as a gateway into the martial arts arena, as his desire to kick ass on screens grew with every passing day.
Appearing in over 60 titles, most of Adkins’ roles involve making an impression from the backline or straight-to-DVD affairs. However, Adkins got a chance at the big time when he joined the cast of John Wick Chapter 4 as the German mob boss Killa. Still, the high-profile part came at a sacrifice, with Adkins slipping into a fat suit, obscuring his chiseled physique. Making the most of an outstanding opportunity, Adkins owns the role and then some, giving Keanu Reeve’s Mr. Wick a run for his money while battling the Baba Yaga in the rain. The fight between Killa and Mr. Wick is a highlight of the Chad Stahelski-directed film and a fine display of Adkins’ ability to take advantage of any opportunity.
“It’s a weird one, because I’m not very recognizable,” Akins told THR. “Even though it’s a great character to play and I really relished the opportunity to create him and do something different, I’m still under the radar.”
While Adkins is more than aware of his worth, others feel he’s criminally underrated in Hollywood.
“Scott should have been James Bond, he should have been Batman,” says Isaac Florentine, the action filmmaker who’s worked with Adkins on several projects. “Because people will see someone who not only can act, but can move like nobody else, with no stunt guys and no doubles. He deserves to be a mainstream star.”
Speaking with THR, Florentine says Adkins almost missed the chance to play the Russian prison fighter and MMA champion Boyka in 2006’s Undisputed II: Last Man Standing. Michael Jai White is the film’s leading man, but esteemed members of the martial arts community highly regard Adkins’ role. Florentine fought to give Adkins the part after concerns about him being too attractive and only 5’10. Adkins grew a beard and slipped on heeled shoes, transforming him into a more imposing and gruff figure. His performance spread like wildfire among action aficionados, bolstering his reputation as a force to be reckoned with.
Thankfully, Adkins says a “new wave of stuntmen turned directors,” know a good thing when they see it.
“So you’ve got those guys that look at what I’ve done in the past and they’re not snobby about it,” Adkins says. “Because they understand what it is and that you need to have somebody who can do the action to make their films better.”
With high-profile filmmakers like Chad Stahelski and Keanu Reeves in his corner, it could only be a matter of time before we see Adkins’ name center stage for an action blockbuster or franchise. While Adkins remains humble and is happy being who he is, he keeps the dream of going bigger close at hand.
The virtual care providers’ solutions will bring greater value to employer-clients and members with their steadfast dedication to delivering value-based healthcare experiences.
CHICAGO, November 2, 2023 (Newswire.com)
-
First Stop Health, a leading virtual care company for primary, urgent and mental health care needs, announced today the acquisition of SentryHealth Inc., an employee health and well-being platform.
SentryHealth is an AI-driven care management and advocacy solution that focuses on personalized care. Its programs will enhance FSH’s virtual care solutions and strengthen its offerings for employers and their employees. The two companies are aligned in providing high-quality, low-to-no-cost, patient-centered care.
"SentryHealth enriches our virtual care offerings with care advocacy and improved navigation to help patients feel supported and engaged in their health," says Teira Gunlock, CEO of First Stop Health. “By continuing to expand on providing delightful healthcare experiences to our members, we are poised to deliver more value to our employer-clients. 2023 has been a year of thrilling growth in the number of patients we serve and in how we can help them live healthier lives.”
“This represents a strategic alignment of vision and values,” says Kevin Porter, President & CEO of SentryHealth. “Through a shared focus on quality, accessibility and cost savings, together we are poised to create a healthcare experience that supports better employee health and wellbeing and contributes to the overall success of our clients.”
Teira Gunlock will be CEO of the combined company with Kevin Porter joining as a Strategic Advisor. The recent strategic investment of Sverica Capital Management and recognition in Inc. Magazine’s 5000 Fastest Growing Companies list represents a time of significant growth for FSH. The acquisition of SentryHealth will bolster this growth with added talent and services.
As a virtual medical home designed for everyone, FSH and SentryHealth’s care tactics will deliver unparalleled experiences to its members. FSH’s Virtual Primary Care was launched in 2022 based on the response to patient need for accessible, value-based care and to specifically address preventive, chronic disease and mental health care. FSH Virtual Primary Care is the one-stop for whole-person health guidance. There is no one-size-fits-all solution for patients, and the acquisition of SentryHealth will further support both companies’ dedication to delivering personalized care that people love.®
About SentryHealth Inc.
SentryHealth is leading the charge in employee health and well-being. Its integrated health solution is the perfect combination of technology and personalized support from caring medical professionals. The company analyzes data from multiple sources to develop unique Intelligent Profiles complete with personalized recommendations. Pairing these profiles with smart technology and Registered Nurse Advocates, it engages with each employee to ensure they receive the right care at the right time. The result is better participation, higher satisfaction, greater outcomes, and lower costs.
About First Stop Health
First Stop Health (FSH) provides care that people love® with various digital healthcare services. Patients can access virtual care 24/7 via app, website or phone. We help them save time and money with safe, convenient, high-quality virtual care solutions – Primary Care, Urgent Care & Mental Health. FSH was named one of Inc. Magazine’s Best Workplaces of 2022 and 2023, and ranked one of the fastest-growing private companies for the past 5 years by Inc. 5000. In 2023, FSH was also recognized in Crain’s Chicago Business Fast 50 as one of the Chicago-areas' fastest growing companies and as a 2023 Well-Being Trailblazer presented by Archetype and WELCOA. For more information, please visit www.fshealth.com.
About Sverica Capital Management
Sverica Capital Management is a leading growth-oriented private equity firm that has raised $2.0 billion across six funds. The firm acquires, invests in and actively builds companies that are, or could become, leaders in their industries. Since inception, Sverica has followed a “business builder” approach to investing and takes an active supporting role in its portfolio companies. Sverica devotes significant internal time and resources to help its management teams develop and execute growth strategies and proactively looks for levers to pull to accelerate growth by reinvesting back into those companies. Sverica firmly believes in building businesses collaboratively that can endure for the long term by starting with a durable foundation and bringing the right people and playbook to drive reinvestment and, ultimately, strong returns for its investors. For more information, please visit https://sverica.com.
NEW YORK, November 2, 2023 (Newswire.com)
-
The Sickle Cell Consortium and Cleverly Changing LLC are excited to announce the highly anticipated 3rd Annual Sickle Cell Caregiver Summit, taking place virtually Nov. 16-19, 2023. This global event aims to empower and support caregivers of individuals with sickle cell disease, providing a platform for education, networking, and inspiration. Elle Cole, a caregiver and mom of a 15-year-old living with sickle cell disease, says, “I look forward to the Sickle Cell Caregiver Summit because it’s a great way to get to know new people and learn valuable lessons that I never knew my family needed, but we cherish the experience for the knowledge and joy it brings us each year.”
The Sickle Cell Caregiver Summit is a must-attend event for anyone involved in sickle cell caregiving, including caregivers, healthcare professionals, and advocates. Sponsored by Vertex Pharmaceuticals (Title Sponsor), Pfizer Pharmaceuticals (Platinum Sponsor), and many others, this year's Summit promises to be extraordinary, with an impressive lineup of speakers, informative sessions, and interactive workshops.
Highlights of the Third Annual Sickle Cell Caregiver Summit include:
Comprehensive Workshops and Educational Sessions: Participants will benefit from a range of workshops and educational sessions covering a variety of topics, including navigating the healthcare system, holistic caregiving practices, self-care for caregivers, and advocating for individuals with sickle cell disease.
Global Networking Opportunities: The virtual format of the Summit enables attendees to connect and network with caregivers, healthcare professionals, and advocates from around the world. Engage in interactive breakout sessions, participate in virtual networking events, and join dedicated online forums to foster collaborations and share experiences.
Online Registration: To secure your spot at this groundbreaking event, visit scdcaregivers.org and register online. Early registration is strongly encouraged, as space is limited. Don't miss this opportunity to join an inclusive community of caregivers, healthcare professionals, and advocates dedicated to improving the lives of individuals with sickle cell disease.
Educational sessions are geared towards caregivers who are parents, grandparents, siblings, guardians, friends, and care workers of individuals living with sickle cell disease. Activities will include family games, trivia games, networking opportunities, and more.
The Sickle Cell Community Consortium is a 501(c)(3) non-profit formed in 2014 to "harness and amplify the power of the patient voice." The Consortium includes sickle cell community-based organizations (CBOs), patient and caregiver advocates, community partners, and medical and research advisers. Donations to the Sickle Cell Consortium help provide a platform for sickle cell patients and caregivers to define problems and gaps in the sickle cell community, identify strategies to address those needs and gaps and determine the CBO, Community, and Corporate partnerships best equipped to implement those strategies to achieve significant and sustainable change. To learn more, visit SickleCellConsortium.org. Follow The Sickle Cell Community Consortium at facebook.com/SCCConsortium, instagram.com/SCCConsortium, and @SCCConsortium on Twitter, and watch the VitaminSC3 Podcast.
Cleverly Changing, LLC is a media company established by Carley Cole-Cavins. The company empowers moms and homeschool families. In addition, the small business advocates for children with special needs such as Sickle Cell Disease and Type 1 Diabetes. The company publishes literature for children living with sickle cell disease, hosts a homeschool podcast called the Cleverly Changing Podcast and creates online content for health literacy and wellness. Follow Cleverly Changing at facebook.com/CleverlyChanging, instagram.com/CleverlyChanging, and @CleverlyChangin on Twitter.
Contact Information:
Sharonda Sikes
Director of Operations
(469) 213-8025
MIAMI, November 2, 2023 (Newswire.com)
-
Mowi, www.mowisalmon.us, proudly recognizes and celebrates the extraordinary accomplishments of Jim Freiss, a seasoned engineer and dedicated colleague, for his commendable efforts in engineering and beyond. Recently, Jim Freiss surpassed his limits by participating in the grueling MOAB 240 ultra-marathon, all for a noble cause.
The MOAB 240 is not for the faint-hearted. It challenges athletes to cover 240 miles across harsh desert terrain and two daunting mountain ranges, demanding a climb of over 31,000 ft, all to be completed in under 116 hours. Out of the 200 registered participants this year, only 112 saw the finish line. Amongst them was Freiss, who completed the run in 4 days, 14 hours, 3 minutes, and 41 seconds, securing the 84th position.
Freiss's motivation for such extreme challenges stems from his mantra, “Going the Distance for the Puppies!” Specifically, he runs and cycles to raise funds for Seeing Eye®, Inc., a non-profit dedicated to training special dogs that aid the visually impaired in leading more independent lives. Freiss has raised $45,000 this year alone through his athletic pursuits for The Seeing Eye, Inc.
Beyond his athletic accomplishments, Freiss attributes his success and drive to the support he receives from Mowi. "I've always felt a strong alignment with Mowi’s commitment to sustainability, health, athleticism, and community engagement. It’s been a great experience being part of an organization that resonates with my personal values," said Freiss.
The company is equally proud. "Jim’s achievements remind us of the power of personal commitment and how it can make a world of difference. We're honored to have him as part of our Mowi family," said Joe Fidalgo, MowiCP of Americas - Managing Director.
Lastly, Mowi teases an upcoming episode on its podcast, "Decoding Seafood," scheduled for November 16th, which promises further insights into these inspiring stories. The podcast is available at www.mowisalmon.usa.
About Mowi:
Mowi, a Norwegian company, has consistently delivered healthy and delicious seafood since 1964 and has become a leading aquaculture company. Mowi works with the ocean to produce nutritious, delicious, and supreme-quality seafood, with high standards in aquaculture practices. Fulfilling one-fifth of the global demand for farm-raised Atlantic salmon, Mowi works exclusively with farmers who follow the most responsible harvesting practices. Mowi has operations in 25 countries and more than 14,000 employees. Go to https://mowi.com/about/ to learn more about the world's largest supplier of Atlantic salmon. As the world’s leading salmon producer, MOWI Salmon is available in grocery stores, National food chains, and food service. For more information, go to www.mowisalmon.us
Daisy Ridley has signed on to star in We Bury the Dead, a survival thriller being directed by 1922’s Zak Hilditch
Star Wars sequel trilogy star Daisy Ridley is set to return to the Star Wars universe for another film that is meant to launch “the next chapter” of the franchise – but before she picks up Rey’s lightsaber again, Deadline reports that Ridley will be starring in We Bury the Dead, a survival thriller from Zak Hilditch, the director of the Stephen King adaptation 1922 (which featured an incredible performance from star Thomas Jane).
Scripted by Hilditch, We Bury the Dead is said to be “a story about grief, loss, and the undead.” Ridley will be taking on the role of Ava, a desperate woman whose husband is missing in the aftermath of a catastrophic military experiment. Hoping to find him alive, Ava joins a “body retrieval unit,” but her search takes a chilling turn when the corpses she’s burying start showing signs of life.
The project has been fully financed by Screen Australia, Screenwest, Lotterywest, the WA Regional Screen Fund, and Gramercy Park Media. It will comply with the terms of the MEAA / SAG-AFTRA agreement as part of Global Rule One, and therefore will be able to begin filming in Western Australia in February of 2024, whether or not the Screen Actors Guild strike has come to an end by then.
We Bury the Dead is being produced by Kelvin Munro and Grant Sputore of The Penguin Empire, as well as Ross Dinerstein of Campfire Studios and Joshua Harris and Mark Fasano of Gramercy Park Media. Nathan Klingher and Ford Corbett are executive producing.
Australian distribution has already been secured with Umbrella Entertainment. Neon and UTA Independent Film Group will be handling international and domestic sales at the American Film Market.
Sputore provided the following statement: “We’re thrilled to join forces with Zak and Campfire on this project. Zak is uniquely gifted when it comes to making movies that are just as moving as they are terrifying. Bringing one of his projects to our home state of Western Australia is especially exciting.“
Dinerstein added: “Zak is an immensely talented storyteller, and we’re ecstatic to reteam for our third feature together. With the brilliant Daisy Ridley onboard and Zak’s spectacularly unnerving and poignant script, we can’t wait to dig into production and bring this film to audiences.“
And Hilditch had this to say: “Having Daisy play the role of Ava is an absolute dream come true. She embodies the perfect mix of vulnerability, grit, and determination that Ava exudes throughout the film.“
Does We Bury the Dead sound interesting to you? What do you think of Daisy Ridley starring in a story of the undead? Let us know by leaving a comment below.
J.J. Abrams’ Constantine TV series has been officially scrapped, but development got further ahead than you might have thought.
It was announced several years ago that J.J. Abrams’ Bad Robot Productions was developing a new Constantine TV series for Max, but a recent report from Variety confirms that the project has officially been scrapped. I know, not exactly a surprise, but the series got further ahead than you might have thought.
According to the report, the Constantine TV series was far enough along that they were already in talks with an actor to play the leading role before it was scrapped. There had been rumours that Sope Dirisu (Gangs of London) was being eyed to play Constantine, but nothing was ever confirmed. The series would have been set in contemporary London, and four scripts had been written.
While we might not see Constantine on the small screen, Keanu Reeves is still slated to return for the long-belated Constantine sequel. Francis Lawrence will also return to direct the sequel, which is aiming for an R-rating this time around. The WGA strike obviously brought the project to a halt, but Lawrence recently confirmed that it’s back in the works now that the strike has concluded.
“So Constantine 2 got obviously held up by the writers’ strike. And we had to jump through a bunch of hurdles to get control of the character again, because other people had control of the Vertigo stuff,” Lawrence said. “We have control. Keanu and Akiva Goldsman and I have been in meetings and have been hashing out what we think the story is going to be, and there’s more meetings of those that have to happen–the script has to be written–but really hoping that we get to do Constantine 2, and make a real rated R version of it.“
Should Constantine 2 move forward, it likely won’t be part of the new DC Universe being cooked up by James Gunn and Peter Safran, but would fall into the DC Elseworlds banner occupied by Joker: Folie à Deux and The Batman Part II.
