Hurricanna, the buzzy upcoming feature about the tragic final days of Anna Nicole Smith which Sierra/Affinity continues to pre-sell at the EFM, has found its new lead heading into an anticipated May production start.
Sylvia Hoeks will step into the role recently vacated by Betty Gilpin due to scheduling issues. The Dutch-born actor broke out in Blade Runner 2049 and has also starred in The Girl In The Spider’s Web and TV series See.
Screen understands UK star Jamie Bell, who stars in the upcoming musical biopic Fred & Ginger and is renowned for films including Rocketman and Billy Elliot, has also joined the cast and will play a lawyer.
Hoeks will star opposite previously announced Holly Hunter who plays Smith’s devoted therapist Khristine who, in an attempt to save her client’s life, embarks on a 36-hour odyssey in which she unknowingly delivers the fatal blow.
Smith, a former ’Playboy’ centrefold and Guess model, died in 2007 at the age of 39 from a prescription drug overdose.
Francesca Gregorini is preparing to direct from a screenplay by Rachel Sarnoff and Matt Sarnoff. Producers are Rory Koslow (Lost Girls) of Well Told Entertainment, Cassian Elwes (Mudbound) of Elevated, and Gregorini. Executive producers are Jere Hausfater and the screenwriters.
UTA Independent Film Group represents US sales.
Hoeks is represented by UTA and Untitled Entertainment, Hunter is represented by CAA and Entertainment 360, and Gregorini by UTA, Curtis Brown and HJTH.
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