Maggie News: Lionsgate Obtains Domestic Rights to Arnold's Zombie Film!

While the small independent film 'Maggie' was originally intended to hit a limited number of art-house theaters and film festivals, Lionsgate feels the film is something much grander and should be celebrated with a large theatrical release. Director Henry Hobson was even shocked by today's news that the large film studio had bought the rights for Maggie's entire North American distribution. Hobson tweeted, "Just found out, Lionsgate have bought my film, which is nice."

 

Even Schwarzenegger, who signed on to the 10 million budget zombie film in hopes to shine in his first art film, may have been surprised about this news of a wider distribution. The Hollywood Reporter says Maggie could still have his chance for a bid for Sundance in January. Earlier rumors suggested Maggie might have gone straight to cable and Blu-ray after it played in film festivals. However, Lionsgate fell in love with the indie zombie film and believes strongly that it has what it takes to go BIG!  

“Maggie has all the ingredients that spell commercial excitement, from a compelling script and an A-llist superstar surrounded by a world-class cast,” said Steve Beeks of Lionsgate. “We’re delighted to continue our relationship with Arnold Schwarzenegger, who turns in a performance that marks a dramatic departure from his action persona, and partner with our friends at Lotus Entertainment on a film that will resonate with thriller aficionados everywhere.”

 

"Maggie takes the zombie genre in exciting new directions, and it offers something for everyone – star power, horror, suspense and riveting performances that will keep moviegoers on the edge of their seats,” says Lotus co-chairs Bill Johnson and Jim Seibel.

As a result of Lionsgate's deal, Maggie will no longer premiere at the Toronto International Film Festival next month. Instead, Maggie will come to a theater near you in early 2015! 

Wade (Arnold Schwarzenegger) is a farmer and father of three, living with his family in America's rural Midwest. When his eldest daughter Maggie (Abigail Breslin) becomes infected with a mysterious disease that slowly turns its victims into zombie-like creatures, Wade is left with a decision that no father should have to face — while Maggie, still a typical teenager at heart, is acutely aware that life as she knows it is soon to end. As she changes slowly but surely, her loving father remains by her side. But with her sense of smell heightening and her cravings for meat intensifying, how long can they delay the inevitable?