Echo Bridge digs 'My Life in Ruins'

Film will be produced by Playtone

By ELIZABETH GUIDER

U.S.-based distributor Echo Bridge has inked to handle worldwide distribution rights on "My Life in Ruins," a romantic comedy from actress-turned-producer Nia Vardolos. Like many distribs here, the four-year-old outfit is trying to step up its game.

"This is the first time we've come to the Croisette to do pre-sales, and to bring such a diverse slate," said Echo Bridge's new prexy-CEO Michael Rosenblatt.

"Ruins" will be produced by Tom Hanks and Gary Goetzman of Playtone, the entity behind Vardolos' indie hit four years ago, "My Big Fat Greek Wedding."

Echo Bridge's exec VP Daniel March said Thursday he was already close to closing several key territory deals for the comedy.

In addition to its relationship with Playtone, Echo Bridge has linked with Jonathan Krane and Beau Rogers' new production company, the Edge, handling worldwide distribution rights, excluding domestic theatrical, for two of the duo's projects.

Edge titles to be handled by Echo Bridge are "Psycho/Analysis," about the tormented life of the scripter behind "Psycho," and the fish-out-of-water comedy "Daddy's Home."

Rosenblatt also unveiled a just-signed deal to handle worldwide distribution rights on an epic to be produced in Europe that is based on the medieval text "The Song of Roland." It's called "Love and Virtue," and will topline John Malkovich, Daryl Hannah, Damien Lewis and Peter O'Toole.