Willem Dafoe’s Vincent van Gogh Biopic ‘At Eternity’s Gate’ Framed by CBS Films

Cannes 2018: Director Julian Schnabel’s film is currently in postproduction

willem dafoe
Photographed by Elisabeth Caren for TheWrap

CBS Films has acquired the U.S. rights to “At Eternity’s Gate,” a biopic of renowned 19th-century painter Vincent van Gogh, the company announced Tuesday.

Director Julian Schnabel’s film, currently in postproduction, also stars Oscar Isaacs, Rupert Friend and Mads Mikkelsen. Jon Kilik produced the film, which was financed by SPK Pictures and Riverstone Pictures.

The deal is worth $1.75 million, with CBS Films planning a fall release for awards consideration.

The film follows the Dutch artist during his 1886 move to Paris, where he met members of the avant-garde, including Paul Gauguin, and explores the sacrifices he made to produce his post-Impressionist masterpieces.

Dafoe has been on a tear of late, picking up his third Oscar nomination for his supporting turn in last year’s “The Florida Project.” He also appears in this year’s “Aquaman” as well as the upcoming “The Lighthouse” with Robert Pattinson and Edward Norton’s “Motherless Brooklyn.”

“Julian Schnabel’s work as filmmaker speaks for itself and his success as an artist of many disciplines makes him uniquely qualified to tell the story Vincent van Gogh,” CBS Films President Terry Press said in a statement. “We look forward to working with him to bring audiences this riveting exploration of art, genius and legacy.”

CAA Media Finance brokered the deal on behalf of the filmmakers. CBS Films executive vice president of acquisitions and co-productions, Scott Shooman, handled negotiations and will oversee the project on behalf of the studio.

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