Writer/directorJan Dunn and producer Elaine Wickham of Medb Films are following up their British Dogme film Gypo with a second feature, Ruby Red Chequer.

Ruby Red Chequer will star Bob Hoskins,French actress Josiane Balasko,and film newcomer Jody Latham (TV's Shameless)in the story of a widower who falls for his foreign neighbour. The Kent-basedshoot will run May 10-June 1.

Thefeature marks the first film project for London's Old Vic theatre company.The Old Vic's chief executive Sally Greene will executive produce alongsideCharles Finch of Pink Sands and Alison Rayson, CEO ofsales company Target Entertainment, which is partially financing and alsohandling international sales.

"Gypo was aninspired piece of filmmaking so I was thrilled to be approached by Jan andElaine for their second feature," said Greene. "This is a hugely excitingopportunity for Old Vic Productions to extend its production experience tofilm, particularly alongside a producer/director team with such creativedynamism and flair. We look forward to a long and fruitful relationship."

CharlesFinch adds, "When I saw Gypo I realised immediately the energy and talent of thisproducer/director duo, and wanted to work with them, thus my involvement in Ruby Red Chequer.These film-makers understand that money is not a barrier and conventions arethere to be broken."

Writer/director Dunn adds, "Coming from a theatrebackground myself, I am absolutely delighted that Sally Greene will be bringingher expertise and profile to the film. Bob Hoskins to star is the icing on thecake. I cast French actress Josiane Balasko, also as a fellow writer/director, trusting thatshe can create something wonderful in the part of a French woman misplaced."

MusicianKT Tunstall will write and record the film's themesong.

Meanwhile,Lionsgate UK will release Gypo inSeptember.

Formore on Medb Films, see this week's Screen International.

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