Lionsgate UK falls for Mister Smith's Love, Rosie

Lionsgate UK chief executive Zygi Kamasa and head of production and acquisitions Nick Manzi secured the deal with Mister Smith CEO David Garrett.

In-demand actors Claflin and Collins will star in the Constantin Film-produced rom-com about two young best friends whose lives take very different paths after one unexpectedly becomes pregnant.

French for Beginners’ Christian Ditter directs from a screenplay by Calendar Girls screenwriter Juliette Towhidi, based on the best-selling novel Where Rainbows End by Cecelia Ahern.

The film, which begins production in May, will shoot in Ireland.

Constantin Film’s Robert Kulzer and Canyon Creek Films’ Simon Brooks will produce. Constantin Film’s head of Film & TV, Martin Moszkowicz will executive produce.

Zygi Kamasa stated: “We’re really excited to be in business with Constantin and Mr Smith on this exciting production with two such rising stars as Lily Collins and Sam Claflin. It also continues our support for British Films where we intend to be the dominant financier and backers of British films within the industry.”

David Garrett commented: “Both Constantin and ourselves are equally delighted to have concluded this deal with Lionsgate. It’s a reflection of the strength of the project that Lionsgate has come on board so quickly as casting was confirmed earlier this week. We are thrilled to be in Berlin with this wonderful project.”