The indie drama The Friend, which is being produced by Ridley Scott and helmed by Blackfish director Gabriela Cowperthwaite, has just secured some major stars for the lead roles. Dakota Johnson, Jason Segel, and Casey Affleck have all signed on to star in the film.
The film will tell the extraordinary true story of Nicole and Matthew Teague, who after learning that Nicole only has six months to live, receive the unexpected support of their best friend, who decides to move into their home and put his own life on hold. His impact on everyone is much greater, and more profound, than anyone could have imagined.
Brad Ingelsby has written the script, which is based on Matthew Teague’s National Magazine Award-winning article that first appeared in Esquire Magazine. You can read it here. Johnson and Affleck will play the Teagues, while Segel will play the best friend. Scott will produce via his Scott Free banner, along with Black Bear Pictures.
“I’m thrilled and honoured to see the story come to life this way, thanks to the filmmaking vision of Gabriela Cowperthwaite and a script that Brad Ingelsby and I worked on closely together. It captures what’s at the heart of the story: Deep love and loss, and the saving grace of friendship”, said Matthew Teague. He went on to add:
“To have the talents of Dakota, Jason and Casey help the story live on is remarkable. And I’m grateful to Scott Free and Black Bear, who have been both passionate and sensitive from day one. I hope the story gives people an honest glimpse of what it means to face mortality, and the value of having a true friend at your side, when that moment comes”.
Cowperthwaite earned a BAFTA nomination for Best Documentary for Blackfish, while her last film was the war drama Megan Leavey which starred Kate Mara and Edie Falco. Having her at the helm of this moving drama, based on a tremendous true story, with three great actors should be something worth getting excited for.
Production is set to start next month in Fairhope, Alabama, where the real Teague family resided.
#Peace.Love.TheFriend
