The Weinstein Company has announced its acquisition of the French film Untouchable and is eyeing both distribution of the original and an English-language remake. Details from the official announcement are as follows:
UNTOUCHABLE is directed by Eric Toledano and Olivier Nakache, produced by Nicolas Duval Adassovsky, Yann Zenou and Laurent Zeitoun, and written by Eric Toledano and Olivier Nakache. It stars acclaimed actor François Cluzet (IN THE BEGINNING, TELL NO ONE) and Omar Sy (THOSE HAPPY DAYS). A 2012 US theatrical release is expected.
Based on a true story, UNTOUCHABLE follows the unlikely friendship between wealthy paraplegic Philippe (Cluzet) and Driss (Sy), a guy from the street. When Philippe appoints Driss as his right-hand aide, he counts on Driss’ pitiless, strong-arm approach to keep their relationship functional and straightforward. What neither expects is the friendship that develops between the two men. Inspiring, heartbreaking and outright hilarious at points, UNTOUCHABLE follows their journey of self discovery, as both men uncover aspects of themselves that they never would have believed existed.
Said Toledano and Nakache “We are extremely proud to entrust our film with Harvey Weinstein and his dream team and look forward to presenting our untouchable and unexpected buddy duet to the world.”
Said Cecile Gaget, Gaumont Head of International Sales, “We are very thrilled to have UNTOUCHABLE released by The Weinstein Company, who will be able to do a great campaign and bring this amazing emotional movie to a wide audience.”
Said Lawson, UNTOUCHABLE is a breathtakingly moving piece of filmmaking with performances that speak straight to the heart. Acquiring this film was an opportunity we did not want to miss — and we spent the holiday weekend making sure that we didnt!
Said Harvey Weinstein, TWC Co-Chairman, “Occasionally, you find a story that translates universally, and UNTOUCHABLE is a perfect example. We look forward to bringing this beautiful and entertaining film to a worldwide audience.”
