James Purefoy in negotiations to star
James Purefoy is in negotiations to star in the period actioner "Ironclad," the first pic from newly minted production, financing and sales entity Mythic International Entertainment. Paul Giamatti is circling a role in the $30 million project, which is being helmed by Jonathan English ("Minotaur").
Based on a legendary story, "Ironclad" is set in 13th century England and tells the story of a formidable Knight Templar and his "Magnificent Seven" who defended historic Rochester Castle against the tyrant, King John, and his mercenary army. Purefoy would play the knight opposite Giamatti's King John.
Richard Attenborough, Pete Postlethwaite, Angus Macfadyen and Colm Meany have also joined the project, set to begin filming this fall in Europe.
Co-producing with Mythic are Zephyr Films and Picture Park. Sales veteran Glenn Kendrick Ackermann is selling the film in Cannes and has already closed multiple territories.
Mythic was launched earlier this year by U.S.-based producer Rick Benattar ("Shoot 'Em Up") and U.K. producer/attorney Andrew Curtis ("Lost in La Mancha"). Curtis, with a background in entertainment law, is doing double duty as partner and head of legal and business affairs. Ackermann is running the sales arm.
Mythic will act as a fully-fledged production company which develops and finances its projects. It also provides gap financing and is currently negotiating a substantial revolving facility with Adrian Ward of National Bank of California. Two private equity groups in London and New York provide financing for the company's slate.
Borys Kit reported from Los Angeles; Stuart Kemp reported from Cannes.
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