MVD Entertainment Group Acquires ‘Star Wars’-Themed Coming-Of-Age Comedy ‘5-25-77’ Starring John Francis Daley – First Look
25.05.2022 - 20:17
/ deadline.com
EXCLUSIVE: MVD Entertainment Group has acquired worldwide rights to the autobiographical coming-of-age comedy 5-25-77, from writer-director Patrick Read Johnson (Spaced Invaders), slating it for release in North American theaters this fall, with an unveiling on digital and VOD to follow.
The film’s title stems from the 1977 release date of George Lucas’ original Star Wars film—which today celebrates its 45th anniversary. It’s inspired by the true story of a nerdy, alienated, hopeful filmmaker named Pat Johnson (John Francis Daley) about growing up, falling in love, and becoming the very first fan of the movie that changed everything. Austin Pendleton (My Cousin Vinny), Colleen Camp (Die Hard with a Vengeance), Neil Flynn (Scrubs), Chris Owen (American Pie), Charlie Talbert (The Big Short), Justin Mentell (G-Force) and Kenneth Mitchell (Captain Marvel) also star.
Gary Kurtz (Star Wars, American Graffiti), Fred Roos, and Leigh Jones produced, in collaboration with Filmio Original Pictures, with 5-25-77 marking Kurtz’s final film before his passing in 2018. MVD is working with 101 Films International to manage foreign sales.
“It’s a real privilege to be working with such a talented and dedicated filmmaker. Being a huge fan of Patrick’s work (especially his film Angus) and knowing that 5-25-77 was his passion project, I was determined to invite him to join the MVD family,” said MVD Entertainment Group’s Director of Acquisitions, Eric D. Wilkinson. “MVD’s slogan is ‘serving artists and audiences’ and I knew we could give Patrick the help and creative freedom to finally finish his film and I’m confident that audiences are going to love the results.”
Added Johnson: “On behalf of all of the dedicated, passionate, (and possibly