STXfilms has acquiredThe Upside, theKevin HartandBryan Cranston-led remake of the French hitThe Intouchablesthat found itself in limbo after The Weinstein Co. declared bankruptcy in the wake of theHarvey Weinsteinaccusations.
Directed byNeil Burger(Divergent),The Upsideis a heartfelt comedy about a recently paroled ex-convict (Hart) who strikes up an unusual and unlikely friendship with a paralyzed billionaire (Cranston). Oscar winnerNicole Kidmanco-stars alongside Emmy winnerJulianna MarguliesandAja Naomi King(Birth of a Nation).
STX has partnered with Lantern Entertainment on the global release of the film, which is said to walk a fine line between comedy and drama. The star-driven film certainly fits with STX’s model, and the studio is said to have beaten out stiff competition for the acquisition title, which several distributors had been circling once it became available.
“This is a hilariously funny and emotionally affecting film. It evokes elements of films likeTrading PlacesandScent of a Woman, while still being completely fresh with characters that are as memorable as they are hysterical,” said STXfilms chairmanAdam Fogelson. “This [is a] heartwarming film that has universal appeal and features world-class performances,” added Lantern’sAndy Mitchell.
The original French film was inspired by a true story and went on to gross $416 million overseas.Jon Hartmerewrote the remake, which premiered at the 2017 Toronto International Film Festival, and was produced by the Escape Artists trio ofJason Blumenthal,Todd BlackandSteve Tisch.
The Upsideacquisition comes in the midst of a big month for STX, which has theMark Wahlbergaction movieMile 22revving into theaters this weekend, and theMelissa McCarthycomedyThe Happytime Murdersopening next week. Its upcoming films include the romantic comedySecond ActstarringJennifer Lopez, the submarine thrillerKurskstarringColin Firth, and the action moviePeppermintstarringJennifer Garner.
