09/06/2015 - Martin Scorsese executive producing British film

Director Ben Wheatley (A Field in England [+see also:
film review
trailer
interview: Ben Wheatley
film profile]) has commenced principal photography on Free Fire [+see also:
film review
trailer
film profile]. Written by Wheatley and Amy Jump (Kill List [+see also:
trailer
interview: Ben Wheatley
film profile]), and set in Boston in the late 70s, the film follows a woman who has brokered a meeting in a deserted warehouse between two Irishmen and a gang who are selling them a stash of guns. But when shots are fired in the handover, a game of survival ensues. Cillian Murphy, Brie Larson, Michael Smiley, Sharlto Copley, Jack Reynor, Enzo Cilenti, Noah Taylor, Armie Hammer and Sam Riley star. 

Produced by Andy Starke and Wheatley’s Rook Films, Free Fire is backed by the British Film Institute (BFI) and Film4. StudioCanal have UK rights and Sony Pictures Worldwide Acquisitions have territories including Australia/New Zealand, Latin America, Scandinavia and Spain. Protagonist Pictures are handling international sales. WME is co-representing the North American sale with Protagonist and Film4. Martin Scorsese is serving as executive producer.

Ben Roberts, Director of the BFI Film Fund said, “It’s a testament to the way Ben makes his films and works with actors that he’s attracted such a first-class international cast to strap on the squibs for Free Fire. And Scorsese for heaven's sake... We’re very excited.”

David Kosse, Director of Film4, said, “Ben is one of our most exciting and original filmmakers and a great example of the bold British talent we want to support at Film4. What better way to continue our long-standing collaboration with him and Rook films than this explosive thriller.”