LOS ANGELES, CA (April 21, 2011) – Hollywood Studios International Films president, Eric Christenson has secured Global sales representation of “L.U.V.” starring world-renowned actor and musician Common (Terminator Salvation, Wanted). The film follows a day in the life of William “Woody” Watson (played by Michael Rainey Jr.), a shy and somewhat timid 13-year old in search of a family and a better life. Looking to his ex-con Uncle Vincent (Common), Woody hopes he’s found the father figure he’s never had. But when his Uncle’s desire to create a legitimate life for himself clashes with the chaos of his past, Woody must decide where to stand, with his beloved Uncle, or against him.
No newcomer to the big screen, Common has recently wrapped up roles in New Years Eve (New Line, December 9th), The Odd Life of Timothy Green (Disney) and as soon as filming is wrapped on L.U.V., he will begin shooting a starring role in AMC’s new series Hell on Wheels. His much anticipated new album “The Dreamer/The Believer” will be released in Fall of 2011.
“Vincent is a uniquely conflicted character,” said Common. “I found an appeal in his desire to move past his failures and onto the right track, and the challenges that presents.”
Director Sheldon Candis’ film also stars Dennis Haysbert (24, Jarhead), Danny Glover (Death at a Funeral, 2012, the Lethal Weapon franchise), Charles S. Dutton (The Obama Effect, Fame), Meagan Good (Jumping the Broom, Brick), Michael K. Williams (HBO’s Boardwalk Empire, he Road), Russell Hornsby (Lincoln Heights, In Treatment), Lonette McKee (Honey, Malcolm X) and newcomers Michael Rainey Jr. and Marz Lovejoy. An original script by Candis and Justin Wilson, L.U.V. will shoot in Baltimore.
L.U.V. is a co-production of FilmForward Independent, Bijelonic/Turner Films and Stony Island Films. Producers are Jason M. Berman (Seven Days in Utopia), Gordon Bijelonic (Another Happy Day), Michael Jenson, Joel Newton (The Kids Are All Right), Datari Turner (Video Girl), Common and Derek Dudley. The film was cast by Mary Vernieu, C.S.A. and Lindsay Graham.
About Hollywood Studios International:
Hollywood Studios International is a media holding company focused on the intelligent deployment of capital in the entertainment industry. The Company has developed a portfolio of fee-based businesses ranging from talent representation to international distribution.
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About HSI Films:
HSI Films is a worldwide theatrical motion picture financing, production and distribution company, led by industry veteran Eric Christenson in partnership with movie producer Paul Schiff, who recently joined HSI to oversee all HSI Films’ productions. The Company handles all aspects of marketing and distribution for both its own internally developed motion pictures, as well as acquired films. HSI Films also represents international sales for both its own slate and third party product. For more than 20 years, Christenson has participated in every aspect of film development, financing, production, distribution, marketing and business affairs. He has licensed films that represent more than 50 Academy Award nominations, including 2010 Academy Award “Best Picture” winner “The Hurt Locker,” and “The Whistleblower,” Martin Scorsese’s 2008 Academy Award winner “The Departed,” “The Aviator,” and “Gangs of New York”; Lasse Hallstrom’s “An Unfinished Life” and “What’s Eating Gilbert Grape,” “The Young Victoria,” “Next,” “Bangkok Dangerous;” Steven Soderbergh’s “Traffic,” Michael Mann’s “Ali,” Peter Berg’s “Very Bad Things,” “Dungeons & Dragons,” Rudyard Kipling’s “Jungle Book” and National Lampoon’s “Van Wilder.” Paul Schiff has produced over 28 films during a prolific 25-year career, including director Jon Amiel’s upcoming crime thriller “Masterwork,” Wes Anderson’s critically acclaimed “Rushmore,” and “Walking Tall,” “Mona Lisa Smile,” Young Guns,” and “Maid in Manhattan” to name just a few.
About Artist International:
Artist International is a management/production company which partners with artists to create great content. The company provides professional representation to actors, writers, directors, athletes, music performers, artists, and other entertainment properties. Its four divisions—music, literary, sports, and talent—operate with the singular focus of understanding the goals, passions, and talents of its clients and maximizing their potential. As a wholly owned subsidiary of Hollywood Studios International, Artist International is positioned to collaborate with artists to bring new content to life, whether by internal means or external partnerships.
MEDIA CONTACT:
Insignia, Inc.
Eddie Michaels/Susie Carnes
scarnes@insigniapr.com
