James Franco’s ‘The Disaster Artist’ Gets Awards-Season Release From A24

Indie distributor scoops up SXSW hit

The Disaster Artist Billboard Tommy Wiseau The Room
"The Disaster Artist"

Decorated indie distributor A24 has acquired domestic distribution rights to James Franco’s “The Disaster Artist,” which saw Franco labelled an early Best Actor contender upon its SXSW premiere in March.

“Disaster Artist” centers on the making of “The Room” — largely considered the worst modern movie ever made, by enigmatic director and star Tommy Wiseau. The film, released independently in 2003, has gained a considerable cult following in the subsequent years.

The move mirrors a successful previous deal made by A24 when they acquired “Ex Machina” from Universal in 2014. That was a flagship title that over-performed commercially and got raves for director Alex Garland and stars Oscar Isaac, Alicia Vikander and Domnhall Gleeson.

New Line will handle international territories on the project. Franco stars and directs from a script by Scott Neustadter and Michael H. Weber, based on the book by Greg Sestero and Tom Bissell.

Dave Franco and Seth Rogen round an ensemble that also includes Alison Brie, Zac Efron, Josh Hutcherson, Jacki Weaver, Ari Graynor and Jason Mantzoukas.

Good Universe and RatPac-Dune, a Point Grey production in association with Ramona Films.

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