Jessica Chastain Spy Thriller '355' Lands at Universal After Bidding War

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The buzziest title for sale in this year’s Cannes film market has landed a buyer, with Universal Pictures announcing that it has acquired U.S. distribution rights to “355” in what the studio said was “a competitive situation” — i.e., a bidding war.

The film stars Jessica Chastian, Lupita Nyong’o, Marion Cotillard, Penelope Cruz and Fan Bingbing as spies, and was written by Theresa Rebeck. All five women, along with director Simon Kinberg, were in Cannes to pitch the film to prospective buyers.

Chastain and Kelly Carmichael will produce for the actress’ Freckle Films company, along with Kinberg.

Also Read: Cannes' Female Troubles: Women Directors Have Always Been Scarce

CAA Media Finance negotiated the deal with Universal. FilmNation Entertainment is handling international sales.

“355” was based on an original idea by Chastain about five female secret agents from different countries who team up to stop an evil syndicate from acquiring a super-weapon.

Matt Donnelly contributed to this report.

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