Saban Films Acquires U.S. Rights To Stephen King Adaptation Of CELL

Saban Films has acquired the US distribution rights to sci-fi horror film Cell starring Golden Globe nominee John Cusack (Love & Mercy, Being John Malkovich, 2012), Academy Award nominee Samuel L. Jackson (Avengers: Age of Ultron, Django Unchained, Pulp Fiction) and Isabelle Fuhrman (Orphan, The Hunger Games).

Directed by Tod Williams (Paranormal Activity 2, The Door in the Floor), Cell is based on the apocalyptic novel of the same name by Stephen King, who adapted the screenplay along with Adam Alleca (The Last House on the Left).

When a mysterious cell phone signal is broadcast across the network and turns the population into mindless animals, struggling graphic artist Clay Riddell (Cusack) bands together with a small group of fellow survivors to trek across a decimated New England to seek answers and reunite with his son.

Saban Films President Bill Bromiley said, “Stephen King is widely recognized as a master of the horror genre. Combining his talent along with Todd’s vision and this dynamic cast, which reteams King, John Cusak and Samuel L. Jackson for the first time since 1408, delivers a truly unique modern tale of survival.”

“I enjoyed working on Cell and love the way it turned out,” said Stephen King. “Kip Williams has made a scary and thoroughly entertaining movie. But you may want to put your cell phone in the freezer after seeing it.”

Producer Michael Benaroya said, “Working on a film based on a book by such a legendary master of this genre, Stephen King, is truly a honor. Mr. King was a wonderful partner and the film benefited in a number of ways from his insights and experience. Director Tod Williams delivered on the film by really sticking to the book and maintaining all its finest elements and creating a film that I believe will truly please King’s fans. Working with actors of the caliber and talent of Cusack, Jackson and Fuhrmam really was a pleasure, and brought the story to life in an exciting way. I feel the audience will care about each character and be rooting for them throughout the film! Saban is a superb partner for the film. They have released numerous successful films in this space and they absolutely understood our vision and goals for the film. I feel they are highly capable of marketing and releasing the film in a smart and effective way. I feel fortunate to have such a great partner on the film.”

Cell was fully financed by Benaroya Pictures and produced by Benaroya Pictures and The Genre Company.

Jonathan Saba and Ness Saban negotiated the deal on behalf of Saban Films, and Ben Weiss of Paradigm, Ben Kramer and Nick Ogiony of CAA, and Joseph Lanius of International Film Trust on behalf of the producers.

Saban Films most recently acquired domestic rights to Renny Harlin’s action comedy Skiptrace, starring Jackie Chan and Johnny Knoxville, out of Berlin. Upcoming titles, to be dated, in the Saban Films slate are: Tom Tykwer’s A Hologram for the King starring two-time Academy Award winner Tom Hanks, where Saban will partner with Lionsgate and Roadside Attractions on the theatrical release; Alex and Ben Brewer’s The Trust starring Nicolas Cage and Elijah Wood; I Am Wrath with John Travolta; and USS Indianapolis starring Nicolas Cage.