The Weinstein Company (TWC) has acquired from HanWay Films all US, Latin America and German rights to Ecosse Films’ Nowhere Boy, the John Lennon coming of age story directed by Sam Taylor-Wood, starring Aaron Johnson, Kristin Scott Thomas, Thomas Sangster, David Morrissey and Anne-Marie Duff. The announcement was made today by David Glasser, TWC’s president of international distribution, Tom Ortenberg, TWC’s president of theatrical films and Tim Haslam, CEO of HanWay Films.
Nowhere Boy tells the never before seen story of John Lennon’s (Johnson) childhood. John Lennon is an ordinary fifteen year old boy on the streets of Liverpool. Funny, smart, naughty, a real edge to him. But life is not simple for John – he grew up in a family of secrets and was raised by his Aunt Mimi from the age of five. When he is suddenly reacquainted with his mother, Julia, they form an unbreakable bond. A bitter war rages between the two sisters for John’s love. Faced with bringing it to an end, he learns the secret heartbreak of his past. But his mother gives him one great gift – music. A wayward boy finds his voice, and walks into The Beatles.
“The story of John Lennon’s childhood has never been told, and now Beatles’ fans will be able to gain insight into his fascinating life,” said Ortenberg. “Matt [Greenhalgh] wrote an amazing script and Sam has brought together an incredibly talented cast. We’re thrilled to be working with Ecosse and Film4 the latter straight off of their success of ‘Slumdog Millionaire’ and all of the other accomplished producers on board.”
“Reading the last page of the screenplay, I knew this was a film I had to make,” said Taylor-Wood. “We’ve brought together a really dynamic cast and made a phenomenal start. I’m very excited.”
“We are very pleased to be working with the Weinstein Company on Sam Taylor-Wood’s exciting debut,” said Robert Bernstein, who is producing the film for Ecosse Films.
Principal photography started on March 8th on location in Liverpool and at Ealing Studios. TWC plans for a year-end release.
