WestEnd Films has closed multiple international sales on “Ignition,” the high-concept thriller starring Emmy nominee Maisie Williams (“Game of Thrones,” “The New Look”) that launched in Cannes.
First announced by Variety, “Ignition” was written and directed by Emmy-nominated filmmaker James Erskine (“Copa 71,” “Billie”) and co-stars BAFTA nominee Rory Kinnear (“No Time to Die,” “The Diplomat”) and Lovi Poe (“Bad Man,” “Seasons”).
Deals include the U.K. (Signature Entertainment), Spain (Twelve Oaks), the Middle East (Falcon Films), CIS & Baltics (Arna Media) and Eastern Europe and Israel (Forum Film), with additional negotiations currently underway across several other territories.
Currently in post-production, “Ignition” follows Sylvie Johnson (Williams), whose drive to London is thrown into chaos when an anonymous caller informs her that a bomb has been planted in her car. Trapped and cut off from any outside help, Sylvie is forced to follow the terrorist’s instructions, her every move watched, and with no choice but to deliver the ticking bomb to its target — the Royal Albert Hall. As the clock counts down, she must confront her deepest secrets, use all her wits to survive and uncover why, of all people, she’s been entangled in this elaborate terror plot.
The film was shot using what Erskine describes as a “live cinema” approach, designed to capture the action with maximum immediacy and authenticity. Filmed in real locations and on live roads, the production used pre-rigged, remotely operated multi-camera systems, allowing performances to unfold without a visible crew.
“Ignition” was produced by Victoria Gregory (“Maiden,” “Man on Wire”), Erskine, Sean Sorensen (“Black and Blue,” “Worth”), Adriel Thomas, Jason Maza (“Twist,” “10×10”), and Mark Stewart (“Heist,” “Escape Plan”).
“The response to ‘Ignition’ in Cannes has been fantastic,” said Maya Amsellem, managing director of WestEnd Films. “Buyers immediately connected with the film’s high-concept premise, innovative execution and edge-of-your-seat tension. James has crafted a uniquely immersive thriller, and Maisie delivers an incredible performance at its centre. We’re thrilled with the momentum the film has generated at the market.”
The film has been acquired under WeLove, WestEnd’s label dedicated to developing and producing female-driven stories and championing female talent.
It was produced by New Black Films under their New Bright Films label, together with Playhouse Pictures, Sharp House and in association with Royal Viking Entertainment, Epic EV Studios, Vectorscope Films and C’est Lovi Productions.
Executive producers include Williams, Michael Safai, Montgomery Blencowe, Jon Levin (an Oscar winner for “All The Empty Rooms”), Randy Jones Toll (“Roofman”), Steven J. Toll (“Roofman”), Ian Sharp and Pat Wintersgill.
