Lionsgate has finalized an eight-figure deal for the domestic rights to the long justating reboot of 1994’s “The Crow.” The original film centers around a man who is brutally murdered along with his finacee the night before their wedding. But he comes back from the grave to seek vengance for their deaths. Both films are based on the 1989 graphic novel written and illustrated by James O’Barr.
“The Crow” reboot will star Bill Skarsgård (“It”), FKA twigs (“Honeyboy”), and Danny Huston (“Succession”). Alongside Laura Birn (“Foundation”), Sami Bouajila (“A Son”), and Jordan Bolger (“The Woman King”). The film is direced by Rupert Sanders (“Snow White and the Huntsman”) from a script by Oscar nominee Zach Baylin (“King Richard”) and Will Schneider.
CAA Media Finance handled the deal for the domestic rights to the film. Which John Biondo oversaw on behalf of Lionsgate. Everything was finalized on Wednesday night as the Toronto International Film Festival kicks off.
“The Crow” is produced by Victor Hadida, Molly Hassell, John Jencks, the late Samuel Hadida, and the late Edward R. Pressman. Pressman also produced the original film adaptation. Production companies involved include Davis Films, Hassell Free Productions, Electric Shadow Company, and Pressman Film, now led by Sam Pressman.
“We appreciate what the Crow character and original movie mean to legions of fans and believe this new film will offer audiences an authentic and visceral reinterpretation of its emotional power and mythology,” Lionsgate’s EVP Acquisitions and Co-Productions, Charlotte Koh said. “To work with a creative team led by Rupert’s unparalleled visual style and storytelling and with a producing team who have made some of the most popular and impactful films of the last several decades is a true privilege.”
“The original film left an indelible mark on our culture that lives on,” the producers added in a joint statement. “We are thrilled to bring a new adaptation for today’s audiences that respects this legacy. Rupert has masterfully brought new dimensions to create a contemporary universe for this timeless saga of undying love, and we can’t wait to share this vision with film audiences.”
Unfortunately, the first film adaptation will always be marred by the tragic onset death of star Brandon Lee. Honoring his memory and what the movie means to fans has made a reboot a touchy subject for decades. There was a previous reboot in the works starring Jason Momoa, but that one didn’t end up happening.
“The Crow” is currently expected to release sometime next year. We’ll keep you posted on updates as they become available.
