The Weinstein Company has pinned down U.S. distribution rights to boxing drama “Hands of Stone,” TheWrap has learned. Directed by Jonathan Jakubowicz, the film strs Edgar Ramirez and singer Usher.
Ramirez will portray boxer Roberto Duran with Usher appearing as Sugar Ray Leonard, who participated in three bouts over their respective careers. Robert De Niro portrays Duran’s coach and mentor Ray Arcel.
Negotiated at Cannes, Harvey and Bob Weinstein will push the film from Venezuelan Jakubowicz, a mentee of frequent TWC director Robert Rodriguez.
Boxing is in the ethos at TWC as the company prepares for the July 24 release of Antoine Fuqua‘s “Southpaw,” starring Jake Gyllenhaal and Rachel McAdams.
Ramirez will next appear in David O. Russell’s “Joy,” opposite Jennifer Lawrence, Bradley Cooper and Elisabeth Rohm.