In a preemptive deal prior to the start of the Toronto International Film Festival, Lionsgate has acquired North American distribution rights to the apocalyptic thriller “Maggie,” which stars Arnold Schwarzenegger, Oscar nominated actress Abigail Breslin and Joely Richardson, the studio announced Tuesday.
Henry Hobson directed from a Black List script by John Scott 3. Bill Johnson and Ara Keshishian produced alongside Colin Bates, Joey Tufaro, Pierre-Ange Le Pogam, Matthew Baer and Schwarzenegger. Claudia Blumhuber and Jim Seibel executive produced the film, which was financed by Silver Reel and Gold Star Films.
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Lotus Entertainment produced the film and handled international sales, while CAA brokered the deal with Lionsgate, which plans to release the film in theaters early next year.
Set after a deadly zombie virus has put a plague on the world, “Maggie” follows a young girl (Breslin) who becomes infected is brought home by her father to be with her family. As Maggie’s condition worsens, their relationship is tested, with a father’s love holding on stronger than the disease. The films aims to put a human face on an inexplicable horror in the wake of a zombie apocalypse.
“Maggie” has all the ingredients that spell commercial excitement – a compelling script and an “A” list superstar surrounded by a world-class cast,” said Steve Beeks, Lionsgate’s co-chief operating officer and Motion Picture Group president Steve Beeks. “We’re delighted to continue our relationship with Arnold Schwarzenegger, who turns in a performance that marks a dramatic departure from his action persona, and partner with our friends at Lotus Entertainment on a film that will resonate with thriller aficionados everywhere.”
“Lionsgate is a world-renowned brand, and we’re pleased to collaborate with Steve Beeks, Rob Friedman, Patrick Wachsberger and a motion picture team that has established a superb track record with this kind of material,” Lotus Entertainment co-chairs Johnson and Seibel said in a joint statement. “‘Maggie’ takes the zombie genre in exciting new directions, and it offers something for everyone – star power, horror, suspense and riveting performances that will keep moviegoers on the edge of their seats.”