Lionsgate Acquire the UK Rights to 'Eddie the Eagle'
Lionsgate UK have taken the UK rights to distribute ‘Eddie the Eagle’ the inspirational biopic which is being produced by Matthew Vaughn's Marv Films.
The film has just started production in the Alps and will move to the UK very shortly to continue production. The story details the exploits of Michael Edwards, better known as Eddie the Eagle, the most famous ski jumper in British history. The role of Eddie will be played by Taron Egerton, who also appeared in Vaughn’s Kingsman: The Secret Service, which has so far grossed more than $250 million, with several major territories still due to release.
Regarding the acquisition, Lionsgate UK CEO Zygi Kamasa said, “When you combine Eddie the Eagle, Hugh Jackman, Taron Egerton, Matthew Vaughn and Dexter Fletcher making one of the biggest British movies for many years you’ve got something that’s unmissable. I’m the first one in line to pay to see that film and I don’t think there isn’t an adult in the U.K. who won’t want to join me. Charming, funny and emotional — audiences are going to love this.”
Eddie the Eagle will be directed by Dexter Fletcher and stars Taron Egerton and Hugh Jackman. Vaughn, Adam Bohling, David Reid, Rupert Maconick and Valerie Van Galder are producing the film from a screenplay written by Sean Macaulay. The film is set for release in the Spring of 2016.
