Remember that film with Joaquin Phoenix set to play Jesus Christ and Rooney Mara as Mary Magdalene? It was directed by Garth Davis, coming off his Oscar-nominated feature “Lion,” way back in 2016 but never saw a formal release. Well, after years of being on the shelf, “Mary Magdalene” is set to make its big screen debut thanks to IFC Films.
For those that don’t remember, “Mary Magdalene” was produced three years ago and set to be distributed by The Weinstein Company on Easter 2018. But yeah, there was this little controversy surrounding Harvey Weinstein that sprung up in 2017, which led to the destruction of TWC and thus, “Mary Magdalene’s” uncertain future.
READ MORE: ‘Mary Magdalene’ Trailer: Rooney Mara Stays With Joaquin Phoenix Until The End
As mentioned, there was a lot of hype around the film, after Davis found his previous film “Lion” nominated for so many awards. On top of a hot director, the film stars Phoenix and Mara, which are two actors that are more than enough to get cinephiles all jazzed. And of course, you have a story that has been told a million different times, but never fails to be interesting. Long story short, all the makings of a film that was bound to be talked about.
So now, years after its production and a full year after it was supposed to be originally released in theaters, IFC has bought the distribution rights and is planning a spring release for the film.
“The film daringly challenges conventional wisdom while telling a remarkable story with nuance, grace, and respect,” Arianna Bocco, EVP Acquisitions and Productions at IFC Films/Sundance Selects/IFC Midnight said. “Garth Davis is an incredible talent, and we’re thrilled to be working with him and See-Saw Films to bring this film to audiences throughout the country.”
“Mary Magdalene” is set to hit theaters, courtesy of IFC Films, on April 12.