Sony Pictures Classics has acquired North American rights to “The Silent Man,” a film about the life of Mark Felt, the secret high-ranking FBI informant during the Watergate scandal, famously known as “Deep Throat.” Liam Neeson plays the title role.
The company has set a September release for the drama from “Concussion” filmmaker Peter Landesman. Diane Lane, Marton Csokas, Josh Lucas, Tony Goldwyn, Michael C. Hall and Tom Sizemore also star.
The true identify of “Deep Throat” remained a mystery for more than 30 years. In 2005, special agent Felt shocked the world when he revealed himself as the tipster. “The Silent Man” chronicles his personal and professional life, offering insight into why he outed himself.
“Mark Felt was one of the most instrumental figures in American history and yet very little is known of him and the risks he took to reveal the truth,” said a representative for Sony Classics in a statement. “This is an incredible story well told by Peter and his creative team, with a top-notch cast led by an extraordinary performance from Liam. This film could be not more timely and relevant for audiences.”
The film was produced by Scott Free, MadRiver Pictures, Endurance Media, Torridon Films, and Riverstone Pictures with Ridley Scott, Giannina Scott, Marc Butan, Anthony Katagas, Landesman, Steve Richards and Jay Roach producing. It was executive produced by Yale Badik, Des Carey, Colin Wilson, Peter Guber, Jeffrey Vinik, Nik Bower, Deepak Nayar and Michael Schaefer.
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The deal was negotiated between CAA and SPC.
Watch a first look clip of “The Silent Man” above.