Lionsgate has released descriptions for the first three films in a new initiative to produce "micro-budget" films which are "driven more by concept and execution than budget." So, expect almost nothing but high-concept horror movies and comedies. But hey, it's a step in the right direction! And those who are up in arms about the all-white Akira casting might be heartened to know that Lionsgate plans to "feature predominantly minority casts in many of the projects." But is this plan really going to work? Let's take a closer look at the first three projects.
·Rapturepalooza
Official Synopsis: A comedic look at life after the fallout of a religious apocalypse. Best described as Zombieland meets The Big Lebowski, the script was written by Chris Matheson and stars comic actor Craig Robinson (Pineapple Express), with both Matheson and Robinson also executive producing. The film is being directed by commercial director Paul Middleditch, and will be produced by Mosaic (The Other Guys) and Ed Solomon. Rapturepalooza will begin production this spring.
Why it may work: Zombieland meets The Big Lebowski? That's every college freshman's wet dream! Plus if they get it out before the end of 2012, they can cash in on the end-of-the-world paranoia.
Why it may not: Even religious comedies are sometimes a difficult sell. And is it really going to live up to a description like "Zombieland meets The Big Lebowski?"
·Gay Dude
Official Synopsis: A coming of age comedy in the vein of Superbad." Best friends Matty and Michael decide to lose their virginity before graduating from high school, but their quest takes an unexpected turn when Matty tells Michael he's gay. What follows is a funny, heartfelt story about friendship, prejudice, love, and the trials and triumphs of growing up. Lionsgate plucked the script, written by Alan Yang (NBC's Parks and Recreation), from the Black List, the annual compilation of Hollywood's hottest unproduced screenplays. Lawrence Mark (Julie & Julia) is in negotiations to produce the film with Jai Stefan.
Why it may work: Well, that title certainly gets your attention.
Why it may not: Smaller budget teen sex comedies like The Virginity Hit haven't fared so well. And if you want to get cynical, a big chunk of the crowd that laughed at gay jokes in American Pie may get a little uncomfortable when confronted with messages about tolerance.
·6 Miranda Drive
Official Synopsis: A supernatural thriller in the vein of Poltergeist from Greg Mclean who wrote and directed the cult classic horror film Wolf Creek. Based on true events, the movie is about a family that unwittingly brings a supernatural force home with them from vacation. Feeding off their own fears, the evil presence threatens to destroy them from within as it takes over their lives and home, with terrifying results. Mosaic is producing along with Mclean, and he will direct the film. Mclean is also client of Mosaic's management division.
Why it may work: Wolf Creek was so scary! And it did really well in America.
Why it may not: The same can not be said for Mclean's follow-up, a killer crocodile picture called Rogue. Also, if a third Paranormal Activity movie beats this to theaters, audiences might get burned out on these haunted house movies.
[via Indiewire]