iW NEWS | Summit Takes "Hurt Locker"

Summit Entertainment has acquired the U.S. distribution rights to the Kathryn Bigelow's "The Hurt Locker." A special presentation film at the 2008 Toronto International Film Festival, the well-received film is inspired by first-hand observation by journalist and screenwriter Mark Boal who was stationed on assignment with a special bomb unit. It stars Jeremy Renner, Anthony Mackie, Evangeline Lilly, Guy Pearce, and Ralph Fiennes. The film is financed and produced by Nicolas Chartier via his Voltage Pictures banner and produced by Bigelow and Boal via their First Light banner as well as Greg Shapiro via his Kingsgate Films banner. "'The Hurt Locker' is one of the most exciting and well-received films of the festival," said Summit Co-Chairman and CEO, Rob Friedman in a statement. "It is wonderful to be working with Kathryn Bigelow and all of the filmmaking team to bring this film to the U.S. audience."Summit plans to release the film in 2009. [Peter Knegt]