EXCLUSIVE: On the eve of the virtual EFM, buyers circle the rights to Tom Hanks’ comedy A man called Ottowhich is one of the most sought-after packages on the market.
We understand that there are several big offers for the project from independent streamers, studios and distributors, including an eight-figure offer that would mark a national record buy at the EFM.
While some shoppers we spoke to complained about the scarcity of must-have packages at this year’s virtual event, Otto is one that grabs their attention given Hanks’ involvement, strong creative elements, and acclaimed original source material. We hear that the budget is in the order of $50 million.
Hanks recorded a video message that was sent to buyers this week as the closing of a deal was about to begin.
The project is scheduled to begin this month on site in Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania. STX International handles international sales and CAA Media Finance handles domestic sales alongside Lichter Grossman Nichols Adler Feldman & Clark.
Join Oscar-winning actor Hanks in the comedy adaptation of the Scandinavian hit A man called Ove are Mariana Treviño (At the sea), Rachel Keller (Legion) and Manuel Garcia-Rulfo (6 Underground).
As we revealed earlier this month, Marc Forster will helm the SF Studios film, which is adapted from Fredrik Backman’s novel and the original 2017 Oscar-nominated Swedish film written and directed by Hannes Holm. The titular character was renamed to reflect the American setting.
The film will follow Otto (Hanks), a lonely grumpy widower with dedicated principles, strict routines and a short fuse, who gives everyone in his neighborhood a hard time by watching him like a hawk. When he seems to have finally given up on life, an unlikely and reluctant friendship forms with his new neighbors. Gradually, Otto undergoes a subtle transformation.
The new script comes from two-time Oscar nominee David Magee (Pi’s life) who will also serve as an executive producer. A man called Otto sees the couple reuniting for the first time after their successful collaboration on the famous Finding Neverland.
Fredrik Wikstrom Nicastro (A man called Ove) from SF Studios is producing the film starring Rita Wilson (Mama Mia!) and Playtone partners Tom Hanks and Gary Goetzman. Marc Forster and Renée Wolfe will serve as executive producers through their production company 2DUX2 (World War Z). SF Studios is funding the project.
