Beineix to make lingo 'Deal'
Reno toplining; Flemyng circling
But Studio Canal Plus, which had intended to bankroll the picture, is seemingly no longer involved. Instead, UGC has taken French rights to the $40 million vampire adaptation, and UGC Intl. will handle worldwide sales. Domestic distribution is not yet set.
Indications are that Beineix is also close to signing Jason Flemyng ("Lock, Stock and Two Smoking Barrels") to co-star and that talks are well advanced on the female lead.
"Deal" will be Beineix's first theatrical feature since 1992's Yves Montand starrer "IP5." It's the story of two young bloodsuckers who go in search of a vampire professor to teach them the tricks of their trade.
Originally budgeted at $60 million, the film was to have been majority financed by Canal as part of a three-pic development deal the company had with Beineix. But a key requirement for Canal's participation was that a U.S. distribution deal be in place before shooting started, and that was never accomplished.
Shoot if necessary
Studio Canal Plus sources said the company is no longer co-producing "Deal," and Beineix told Daily Variety that he is prepared to start shooting without a U.S. distributor on board if necessary.
Although he wouldn't go into details, Beineix said the film's financing had been put together by his Cargo Films production company and, aside from UGC's input, it would probably include German and Japanese coin.
"Canal Plus has expressed a clear interest in pay television rights," he noted.
Still friendly
The helmer, who acquired the book rights to the project from Paramount over a decade ago, insisted that relations with Studio Canal Plus remain amiable.
"They funded the development of the project, and the door is still open for future cooperation," he said.
Beineix now must convince Paris authorities to allow him to film aerial shots of the French capital, "which is the fourth star of the picture."
Traditionally, the Paris suits do not allow aircraft or helicopters to fly low over the city, but Beineix is hopeful they'll make an exception in this case.
Reno's credits include "Godzilla," "Ronin," "The Professional" and "Nikita."
ICM reps Beineix.
