STOCKHOLM -- The long-awaited sequel to Swedish classic "My Life as a Dog," the film that kick-started helmer Lasse Hallstrom's international career, is finally in the offing.
Production starts in 2010 on "My Father, His Son," based on "Dog"-author Reidar Jonsson's sequel to his own novel. Swedish director Daniel Fridell will helm the mostly English-language film. Casting is underway.
Pic will be co-produced by Thomas Allercrantz's Rode Orm for a premiere in late 2010 or early 2011.
"My Life as a Dog," released in 1985, got Oscar nominations for directing and writing catapulting Hallstrom into a successful U.S. career with films including "What's Eating Gilbert Grape," "Casanova" and "The Hoax."
"My Father, His Son" deals with Ingemar, now 15, signing on as a sailor and going to Cuba.
There have been rumors about a possible film for years, but nothing substantial until now.
Allercrantz said: "Since a big part of the film takes place in Cuba, the film will be a co-production between us, Cuba and several European production companies. The budget is estimated at 50-60 million Swedish kroner ($6.1 and $7.3 million)."
Jonsson has written the script with U.S. scribe Donna Matson.
Fridell has previously made mostly youth-oriented dramas including "Beneath the Surface" and "Blood Brothers."
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