Mt. Vesuvius will erupt again in less than a year. FilmDistrict has acquired domestic distribution rights to “Pompeii,” Paul W.S. Anderson‘s retelling of the volcanic eruption that destroyed the titular Roman city.
The period film is in production, and FilmDistrict will release the film through TriStar Pictures on Feb.28, 2014, almost 2000 years after Mount Vesuvius covered Pompeii in lava, ash and volcanic rock. FilmDistrict and TriStar have previously partnered on films such as “Soul Surfer” and “Looper.”
“Pompeii,” a Constantin FIlms and Impact Pictures production, is both an action movie and a love story. The script, credited to five different screenwriters, follows a Celtic gladiator who falls in love on the eve of the eruption.
Also read: How 'Olympus Has Fallen' Pulled Off the Year's Biggest Box-Office Surprise
Kit Harington of “Game of Thrones” stars as the gladiator while Emily Browning plays the noblewoman who steals his heart. Jared Harris of “Mad Men,” Kiefer Sutherland and Carrie-Anne Moss of “The Matrix” all appear in the film as well.
“‘Pompeii’ is the kind of big and bold film we all love to go to the movies to experience," FilmDistirct CEO Peter Schlessel said in a statement. Schlessel with executive produce the film with Jon Brown while Jeremy Bolt, Don Carmody, Robert Kulzer and Anderson will all produce. Lionsgate will handle international sales.
“We believe the film’s scope and story line will resonate well with U.S. moviegoers and we are pleased to once again team with Sony on bringing a film to theaters and beyond," Schlessel said. "We look forward to working closely with Paul, Jeremy, Robert, Don, Martin and Jon as their U.S. distribution partner.”