Angelina Jolie, Todd Black, and Steve Tisch of Escape Artists Productions will produce “Bright Path: The Jim Thorpe Story,” the upcoming feature about legendary athlete Jim Thorpe, it was announced Monday.
Martin Sensmeier will executive produce and star in the feature as Thorpe.
Thorpe is widely recognized as one of the most famous multi-sport athletes in history. In 1912, he won two Olympic gold medals representing the United States while his citizenship went unrecognized during a period of cultural genocide for Native Americans. Thorpe went on to play Major League Baseball, professional football and eventually founded the organization that became the NFL.
Abraham Taylor, Alex Nibley and Sterlin Harjo wrote the original screenplay, with Taylor also producing. Josh Aker will executive produce the project as will Justine Hunt on behalf of Box of Daylight Productions.
“I’m honored to be working on this project,” said Jolie in a statement. “I have had the privilege of spending time with Bill Thorpe, and will be listening to and guided by the Tribes and the Thorpe family in the making of this film.”
UTA’s Independent Film Group will represent the film for financing and distribution.
Jolie is repped by UTA, Media Talent Group and Sloane Offer.
Sensmeier is repped by UTA and Justine Hunt of Hines and Hunt Entertainment.
Taylor and Aker are repped by Bianca Goodloe of Goodloe Law.