Reliant nabs overseas rights to 'Nine'

Film is first major acquisition for London office

By DIANE GARRETT

Reliant Pictures Intl. has ponied up A$2.2 million ($1.9 million) for overseas rights to "How to Change in Nine Weeks" in its first major acquisition out of its London office.

Guy Pearce, Sam Neill and Miranda Otto star in the Oz thriller based on the true story of the murder of teen dancer Rachel Barber. Simone North wrote and directed the tale, based on the tome "Perfect Victim."

Pic wraps production this week in Melbourne.

"The dailies we have seen so far have reaffirmed our confidence in this project," said Penny Wolf, managing director of Reliant Pictures Intl., and one of the exec producers on the project.

Tony Cavanaugh and Thom Mount are producing the pic. Catriona Hughes, John Keating, Leesa Kahn, Andy McIntyre, David Whealy and Christopher Mapp are also serving as exec producers.

Financing participants include Icon, Australia's Film Finance Corp. (under the direction of Brian Rosen), Omnilab, the Pacific Film and Television Commission, Reliant Pictures Intl. and equity investors.