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Fox 2000 Pictures has inked a distribution deal with independent producer Phoenix Pictures to release its thriller "Black Autumn," to be helmed by current DGA prexy Michael Apted.

Phoenix's Mike Medavoy and Arnold Messer produce, along with Underground Film's Nick Osborne.

Pic is based on an original screenplay by Adam Marcus and Debra Sullivan, which was rewritten by Christine Roum under Apted's supervision. Production is gearing up for a fall start, with casting under way.

Story centers on a girl who gets a scholarship to an elite private school only to realize that her selection is linked to the school's terrifyingly dark secret.

Underground's Trevor Engelson will co-produce along with Apted producing partner Jeanney Kim. Marcus exec produces.

Project is being overseen by David Thwaites for Phoenix, who will also co-produce, and by Fox 2000 exec Rodney Ferrell for the studio.