FilmNation Entertainment has acquired the majority of worldwide rights to futuristic actioner “The Rover” from “Animal Kingdom” writer-director David Michod.
FilmNation made the announcement Monday at Cannes and touted “The Rover” as marking the company’s migration into the acquisition space after ramping up its film investments and development slate.
“In addition to a full-fledged international sales arm, the banner now effectively develops, finances, and produces projects inhouse as well as acquiring filmmaker-driven content,” the company said. UTA, which repped sales, negotiated the deal with FilmNation; it also reps Michod.
Producers are aiming to start shooting late this year in Australia with Michod directing from his own script, based on a story he conceived with Australian actor Joel Edgerton. Guy Pearce and Robert Pattinson are in negotiations to star.
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David Linde will produce for Lava Bear Films, while Liz Watts will produce for Porchlight Films. The film will also be produced in association with Blue Tongue Films, the directors collective to which Michod belongs.
“The Rover,” set in the Australian desert in a dangerous near-future, centers on a man, who, when his car is stolen by dangerous criminals, tracks them down, enlisting the help of one of gang’s members.
Lava Bear prexy Tory Metzger will oversee the production for the company.
“I loved ‘Animal Kingdom’ and am thrilled to collaborate with such an exciting talent as David Michod,” said FilmNation topper Glen Basner. “This film represents another big step for FilmNation as we continue to invest in high-caliber films. ‘The Rover’ is going to be one kick-ass flick.”
Territories excluded in FilmNation’s deal are the U.K., Latin America, Australia & New Zealand, Benelux, Scandinavia, Greece, Indonesia, Middle East, Poland, Croatia/Slovenia, Romania/Bulgaria/Hungary, Serbia and Turkey.
