It looks like the TIFF market has a splashy title to usher in its inaugural year. Black Bear and Suzanne Todd Productions have a package ready for the festival for “Spa Weekend,” a female ensemble comedy. And a funny foursome is attached to the picture, led by comedienne Leslie Mann. Isla Fisher, Michelle Buteau, and Anna Faris will also star.
But what’s “Spa Weekend” about? The film follows three best friends as they embark on a luxury spa break in Palm Springs. But when a trainwreck friend shows up, the trio’s period of much-needed pampering descends quickly into chaos. “Bad Moms” writer-directors Jon Lucas and Scott Moore will helm the feature, and given their other writing credits (“The Hangover,” “The Change-Up,” “Office Christmas Party,” and others) this comedy is in good hands.
On the backend, Suzanne Todd will produce through her banner and John Friedberg for Black Bear. Teddy Schwarzman and Michael Heimler are also on board as executive producers. Black Bear will handle international rights at the TIFF market, and co-rep US rights with CAA Media Finance and UTA Independent Film Group.
None of the four actresses attached to “Spa Weekend” are strangers to raunchy comedy. Mann has starred in several of her husband Judd Apatow‘s films, including “Knocked Up” and “This Is 40.” Fisher’s breakout role came in 2005 with the classic “Wedding Crashers.” “Scary Movie” alum Faris is a mainstay in the spoof comedy scene. And Buteau recently starred in “Babes” with Ilana Glazer, and stars in Netflix‘s “Survival Of The Thickest,” which she also co-created.
“Thank goodness the rumors are false – comedy in Hollywood is not dead! What a joy to work with these amazing funny talented women on my fourth movie with the incredible comedic team of Lucas and Moore,” Suzanne Todd said in a press statement. “We had a great experience with John Friedberg on “Bad Moms” and are thrilled to be working together again – giving hard-working, stressed-out women, a movie to make them feel seen and appreciated while enjoying some real laughs.”
Friedberg had a statement of his own: “Suzanne, Jon and Scott struck gold with the “Bad Moms” franchise and “Spa Weekend” captures that same magic. It’s irreverent, outrageous, and always deeply relatable. Leslie, Isla, Michelle and Anna are some of the most hilarious actors in the business, and this will undoubtedly be an unforgettable on-screen combination. The market is drastically underserved with quality comedies, especially for a female audience, and when these films are good, they really work.”
Given the talent involved in “Spa Weekend,” don’t be surprised if the film reaches “Bridesmaids” status upon release. But what else will hit the TIFF market as Toronto approaches? Stay tuned, as the festival kicks off next week on September 5.