By a Front Row Features Staff Reporter
HOLLYWOOD—Steven Yeun, who played post-apocalypse survivor Glenn Rhee in AMC’s “The Walking Dead,” stars in Joe Lynch’s “Mayhem.” RLJ Entertainment and AMC Networks’ brand Shudder are partnering on the North American release of the action-thriller. The deal was finalized during the 70th Cannes International Film Festival. The film first premiered at the 2017 SXSW Film Festival to positive reviews. Directed by Lynch (“Everly”) and written by Matias Caruso, the film also stars Samara Weaving (“Monster Trucks”), Steven Brand (“The Scorpion King”) and Dallas Roberts (“Dallas Buyers Club”).
RLJE plans to release “Mayhem” in theaters and On Demand later this year, with the Shudder streaming premiere slated for early 2018. Mark Ward, RLJE’s Chief Acquisitions Officer, and Aurelie de Troyer, Shudder’s VP of Global Acquisitions and Co-Productions made the announcement today.
“Joe Lynch’s vision is captivating,” said Ward. “He has the ability to take stories and elevate them with his unique insight and direction.”
“’Mayhem’ is bold, fun, irreverent and incredibly fast on its feet,” said de Troyer. “Steve Yeun and Samara Weaving deliver stunning performances. It’s a perfect fit for Shudder.”
“’Mayhem’ is a very personal film for us that has affected and engaged festival audiences looking for some insane, cathartic fun in these trying times,” said director Lynch. “With RLJ Entertainment and Shudder working together to bring ‘Mayhem’ to the masses, I am confident that this crazy flick will find its audience in the best way possible. It will be for viewers who want the choice of a big, bold, loud theatrical experience but it will also have the convenience and careful curation of Shudder’s fantastic service. As a fan and customer of Shudder, I am proud to know that we are in great company.”
The plot centers on an airborne virus infects the corporate tower of a major law firm on the day attorney Derek Saunders (Yeun) is wrongfully fired. The infection is capable of making people act out on their “most erratic” impulses and viral rage takes over. Trapped in the quarantined building, Saunders is forced to fearlessly fight for his job, his redemption and his life.
The film was produced by Avva Pictures Mehrdad Elie & Parisa Caviani along with Circle of Confusion’s Lawrence Mattis & Matt Smith. Ward negotiated the deal with de Troyer and Paradigm on behalf of the filmmakers.
