Saban Films have secured the worldwide rights to the western “The Last Manhunt,” which charts the legend of Willie Boy, the distributor announced on Tuesday. The Christian Camargo–directed film features a story by Jason Mamoa (who’s also executive producing) and screenwriter Thomas Pa’a Sibbett.
True to its name, “The Last Manhunt” is the real-world story of the last great American manhunt of the old west, based on the oral history of the Chemehuevi tribe within the boundaries of what became Joshua Tree National Park. The project features a largely Native American ensemble cast, including Martin Sensmeier, Mainei Kinimaka, Zahn McClarnon, Lily Gladstone, Raoul Max Trujillo, Brandon Oakes and Tantoo Cardinal.
Set in 1909 when a reputed murder spawns a tragedy reminiscent of Romeo and Juliet, “The Last Manhunt” follows Willie Boy (Sensmeier) and his love Carlota (Kinimaka) who go on the run after he accidentally shoots her father in a confrontation. With President Taft coming to the area, the local sheriff leads two Native American trackers seeking justice for their dead tribal leader.
Saban Films will release the film in November 2022.
Saban Films previously collaborated with Momoa on the 2018 film “Braven,” which to date was one of the distributor’s most successful films.
“We are thrilled to be working with Jason again, especially on ‘The Last Manhunt,’ a story about a misrepresented culture. As Jason noted: The ‘true story of Willie Boy is a beautiful one,’” Bill Bromiley, president of Saban Films, said in a statement.
Momoa is currently in production on Universal’s latest “Fast & Furious” installment, “Fast X,” and he recently wrapped production on “Aquaman and the Lost Kingdom,” DC’s sequel to “Aquaman.” The latter film is scheduled to be released theatrically on March 17, 2023.
Variety first reported the news.