John Cusack is in advanced negotiations to star in the chase thriller “Misfortune” for producers Lee Nelson and David Buelow of Envision Media Arts.
Radiant Films International is selling the project to international buyers at the Cannes Film Festival.
Lucky McKee will direct from a screenplay by Jared Butler and Lars Norberg. McKee co-directed 2008’s suspense thriller “Red,” starring Brian Cox and based on Jack Ketchum’s novel, and horror film “May,” released by Lionsgate.
Cusack will portray a quick-witted businessman who leaves everything behind, including his family, to start a new life after embezzling a client’s money. All had been going according to plan until he becomes separated from his cash in the middle of the wilderness, where three young friends happen upon the lost fortune.
“We are thrilled to be working with a talent such as John Cusack,” said Radiant topper Mimi Steinbauer. “He is perfect for the role of a white-collar businessman so consumed by greed he trails off the beaten path of morality. Cusack combined with Lucky’s knack for suspense, give the film all the ingredients it needs for a chilling thriller.”
Cusack starred last year as Brian Wilson in “Love & Mercy” and in Spike Lee’s “Chi-raq.”
