In one of the biggest deals of the Cannes market, Universal has acquired U.S. rights to 355, the female-dominated spy film.
The price tag is about $20 million, for a film that will cost at least $75 million to make.
Starring Three Oscar Winners, One Oscar Nominee
Jessica Chastain, Marion Cotillard, Penelope Cruz, Fan Bingbing and Lupita Nyong’o star in the James Bond like spy pic.
Simon Kinberg-helmed 355 was expected to cause the biggest stir given the star power of the quintet, each bringing in a fan base from a disparate box-office territory. Fan Bingbing is one of the biggest stars in China.
The script, written by Theresa Rebeck (Catwoman), revolves around five spies from agencies around the world who form their own team, dubbed 355.
The timely project is set against the larger cultural phenomenon of women demanding their equal place amid the #MeToo and Time’s Up movements. Ironically, Cruz previously had been rumored to be taking a role as a so-called “Bond girl” in the next 007 outing. But instead she will topline what is hoped to be a franchise starter with 355.
One of the most vocal actresses on gender equity issues in Hollywood, Chastain is producing through her Freckle Films banner.