28 DAYS LATER writer sells some sci-fi SUNSHINE

By: Patrick Sauriol
Date: Thursday, February 05, 2004
Source: Variety

Screenwriter/novelist Alex Garland has sold a spec script titled SUNSHINE to Fox Searchlight, the same company that picked up American distribution of his last project, 28 DAYS LATER. English film production company DNA Films will produce the film and Garland's collaborator on 28 DAYS LATER, director Danny Boyle, is attached to direct SUNSHINE.

The only description of Garland's science fiction idea is that it borrows the concept of the 1950s French film THE WAGES OF FEAR (which came from a Georges Arnaud novel, and which was also used for William Friedkin's 1977 SORCERER movie.) Somewhere in outer space a group of men are transporting dangerous explosives to a place where they are desperately needed. The rush delivery means that the travelers have sacrified safety for speed, and the slightest hiccup along the way could cause the explosives to detonate.

The movie is anticipated to begin shooting before the end of the year, likely in Europe. Fox Searchlight is budgeting the picture at a modest $40 to $50 million.

After the success of 28 DAYS LATER, this will mark the second direct collaboration between Boyle and Garland. Garland's novel THE BEACH was adapted by screenwriter John Hodge for helmer Boyle, which served as his introduction to the writer.


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