Arclight to handle Al Pacino as King Lear, directed by Michael Radford

CANNES, MAY 12, 2010 - Arclight Films will represent all international sales for the upcoming film adaptation of William Shakespeare's "King Lear" to be directed by Michael Radford starring Al Pacino. ICM is representing the film for North American distribution.

Radford (The Merchant of Venice, Il Postino) has adapted the play and will shoot the film entirely on location in the United Kingdom.

"I am really excited that Al and I are going to do another Shakespeare film together, and I'm hoping the audience will be excited and moved by our take on this great work," said Radford. "'Lear' is tailor-made for Al Pacino. Who wouldn't want to see one of the world's greatest movie actors in one of the greatest roles ever written?"

The film will be produced by Barry Navidi, who teamed with Pacino on 'Merchant' as well as the upcoming production of "Wilde Salome" which Pacino stars in and directed. Based on Oscar Wilde's play, 'Salome' is in post-production. "King Lear" is their third outing together.

Commented Navidi: "The definition of passion is Al Pacino. I just love working with him again and again and again."

Shakespeare's aging King Lear decides to surrender his throne to his three daughters. Goneril and Regan, the elder married daughters, flatter their father with profusely exaggerated declarations of filial devotion, but Goneril refuses to try to outdo her sisters and is exiled. The King ultimately loses everything.

The film is fully financed with private equity, UK tax rebate (Coutts Bank), and in association with Belgium/E-Motion fund. Pre-production is set to commence in October with principal photography set for Spring 2011.

In addition to Pacino in the title role, Navidi is presently in discussions for other casting. Benoit Delhomme, director of photography, and Sammie Sheldon, costume designer, who both worked on 'The Merchant of Venice' will again be on the 'Lear' production team.

Said Arclight's Gary Hamilton: "We are thrilled to be involved with these filmmakers and the remarkable creative talent behind 'The Merchant of Venice'. Al Pacino is one of the biggest names in our industry worldwide and we think this film will attract the major distributors here at Cannes."

Al Pacino is represented by ICM.