Lionsgate Seals Eight-Figure Deal for 'The Crow' Reboot
EXCLUSIVE: Film giant, Lionsgate, has sealed a substantial eight-figure deal for domestic rights to the upcoming reboot of The Crow. The revival of the cult classic originally from 1994, stars globally acclaimed actors and artists, including Bill Skarsgård (It), singer-songwriter FKA twigs (Honeyboy), and Danny Huston (Succession). Directed by Rupert Sanders (Snow White and the Huntsman), the film promises a translation of the original narrative which saw a revenger rising from the dead, based on the graphic novel of the gothic character created by James O'Barr.
CAA Media Finance undertook negotiations for domestic rights, finalized late Wednesday, with John Biondo overseeing on behalf of Lionsgate, as the Toronto International Film Festival hits its stride. The much-anticipated release is set for 2022.
Penned by Oscar nominee, Zach Baylin (King Richard) and Will Schneider, the star-studded cast also includes Laura Birn (Foundation), Sami Bouajila (A Son), and Jordan Bolger (The Woman King). Producers Victor Hadida (Resident Evil), Molly Hassell (Terminal), John Jencks (Honest Thief), the late Samuel Hadida (True Romance), and the late Edward R. Pressman (The Crow) oversee production with powerhouse companies like Davis Films, Hassell Free Productions, Electric Shadow Company, and Pressman Film (now led by Sam Pressman) at the helm. This $50M film was primarily shot on location in Prague and Munich with international sales left in FilmNation's capable hands, which reported a myriad of closed deals already.
"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,” stated Lionsgate’s EVP Acquisitions and Co-Productions, Charlotte Koh. The stronger emphasis on authenticity and original's emotional power was middlingly echoed by the joint statement of the Producers, applauding Rupert's "contemporary universe for this timeless saga of undying love."
First published by Caliber Comics in 1989, the original Crow graphic novel was adapted to film by director Alex Proyas. After the tragic accidental shooting and death of star Brandon Lee, son of Bruce Lee, the film developed a marked cultural resonance.
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And there you have it, folks: Hollywood is once again hitting the time machine and sprucing up a '90s classic. Although recycling vintage narratives always raises a skeptical eyebrow, I must direct your attention to the astonishing constellation of talent lighting up this production. Just imagine Skarsgård in gothic glory, twigs' sonic world bridging the gap between gut-wrenching emotions and ethereal aesthetics, and Huston - a HBO darling - bringing his knack for surfing between chilling coolness and underlying menace. The presales may not jingle yet, but we could expect something unique here.
Yes, my dear readers, "authentic and visceral reinterpretation" - as Charlotte Koh phrases it - sounds thrilling, yet, we've heard similar spiels before, haven't we? However, the mention of honoring the original's gravitas and emotional depth does loosen my grip on cynicism and makes one wonder: Are we hoping for a daring reinvention or a reverential redo? Arguably, either could fly if they capture the psychotically romantic essence of the original narrative.
Robbing the cradle of dark '90s nostalgia brings its risks, including potentially inciting the wrath of die-hard fans. Director Rupert, shield yourself - you're tampering with a cherished classic shrouded in a legend as tragic as its storyline. Though, we must remember that it's the same man who dared imbuing the ancient tale of Snow White with a tint of modernity.
So, will the reboot of The Crow soar high or face a fall from grace? Along with countless other eager spectators, I shall be there, popcorn in hand, eager to find out. For now, here's to hoping the remake honors the original while adding a distinctive flair that shows off this remarkable lineup of talent. Quite succinctly, history, don't repeat but, do rhyme.
