Universal Pictures has set the upcoming Melissa McCarthy-led comedy Michelle Darnell for release in theaters on April 8, 2016. It takes the place of the previously-announced Clifford the Big Red Dog, which has temporarily been removed from the schedule.
McCarthy, who was nominated for an Academy Award for her performance in Paul Feig’s Bridesmaids, headlines Michelle Darnell as a titan of industry, who is sent to prison after she’s caught for insider trading. When she emerges ready to rebrand herself as America’s latest sweetheart, not everyone she screwed over is so quick to forgive and forget.
Based on an original character created by McCarthy, Michelle Darnell will be directed by Ben Falcone (Tammy) and is written by McCarthy and Falcone alongside their Groundlings collaborator, Steve Mallory. The film will be produced by McCarthy and Falcone through their On the Day Productions and Will Ferrell and Adam McKay through their Gary Sanchez Productions.
The April 8 release date has Michelle Darnell opening opposite Focus Features’ untitled Jesse Owens biopic. Directed by Stephen Hopkins (Predator 2, “House of Lies”), that film stars William Hurt (Into the Wild, The Disappearance of Eleanor Rigby), Jeremy Irons (Die Hard with a Vengeance, Beautiful Creatures), Carice van Houten (“Game of Thrones,” Valkyrie), Jason Sudeikis (We’re the Millers, Horrible Bosses) and, in the lead, Stephan James (When the Game Stands Tall, Selma).
(Photo Credit: Nicky Nelson / WENN.com)
