Ralph Fiennes, Colin Farrell, and Wagner Moura Star in the Comedy ‘Art’ Directed by Fernando Meirelles and Written by Christopher Hampton; 193 To Launch at Cannes Market
Three Oscar-Nominated Actors to Star in New Comedy “Art”
In an exciting development in the film industry, three-time Oscar nominee Ralph Fiennes, Oscar nominee Colin Farrell, and recent Oscar nominee Wagner Moura are joining forces for the comedy movie “Art.” This film marks an English-language adaptation of Yasmina Reza’s acclaimed play of the same name.
The project boasts a talented team, with Brazilian Oscar nominee Fernando Meirelles, known for “City of God” and “The Two Popes,” set to direct. Esteemed screenwriter Christopher Hampton, a multiple Oscar winner for his work on “The Father,” is adapting the screenplay.
Centered around themes of art and friendship, “Art” follows three longtime friends—Serge, Marc, and Yvan. The story unfolds when Serge, drawn to modern art, purchases a large white painting characterized by slightly varying shades of white. Marc is appalled by this extravagant purchase, leading to a significant strain in their friendship as differing views on art collide. Meanwhile, the beleaguered Yvan finds himself caught in the middle, striving to appease both friends, inadvertently exacerbating the tension.
Producers Charles Finch, known for “Priscilla,” and Tracy Seaward, associated with “Philomena” and “The Queen,” are on board for this ambitious project. Patrick Wachsberger’s 193 is set to launch sales at the upcoming Cannes market.
Originally opened in Paris in 1994, Reza’s play has been staged in various prestigious venues, including London’s West End, Broadway, and Sydney. It has featured numerous notable actors, with a recent Broadway production starring Bobby Cannavale, James Corden, and Neil Patrick Harris.
Discussions about a film adaptation of this beloved play have been ongoing for years, and with this collaboration now in motion, it promises to bring a celebrated story of friendship and artistic discord to the big screen.
The project also reunites Meirelles with Fiennes, who previously collaborated on the Oscar-winning “The Constant Gardener,” and brings Farrell back to work with Meirelles after their engagement on the Apple series “Sugar.” The director has also produced several projects featuring Moura, including the film “VIPs.”
CAA Media Finance is representing the domestic side of the project.
