The Weinstein Company announced its plans for Fanboys on Monday:
The Weinstein Company announced today that it plans to jointly release two versions of its highly anticipated film, “Fanboys,” on home video, with the Company exploring options for its theatrical release. In recent weeks, Star Wars fans nationwide have built a multi-tiered grassroots effort to voice their strong support for one of the earlier versions of the film, including a campaign which generated over 300,000 emails in support for the film. Based on the tremendous feedback and interest from the fans, today’s announcement will ensure both versions will be equally available within the marketplace.
Set in 1998, the film, starring Jay Baruchel (“Million Dollar Baby”), Tony Award Winner Dan Fogler (The 25th Annual Putnam County Spelling Bee), Sam Huntington (“Superman Returns”), Chris Marquette (“Sugar Mountain,” “Joan of Arcadia”), and Kristen Bell (“Veronica Mars,” “Pulse”) is a heart warming comedy of a group of young, passionate Star Wars fans, drive cross-country to raid George Lucas’ Skywalker Ranch, and watch “Star Wars: Episode 1- The Phantom Menace.”
“Over the last few weeks we have received a tremendous amount of input from Star Wars fans nationwide,” stated Matthew Frankel, Chief Communications Officer, The Weinstein Company. “While the later version tested very well with audiences, the grassroots support we have received for the first version simply cannot be ignored. We are very excited to launch these two films and look forward to giving the fans the opportunity to see both versions.
“Fanboys” is a production of Trigger Street and Picture Machine. Jay Baruchel plays the role of Windows, a junk food addict who’s dedicated his 150 IQ to a worthy cause: comic books. His nickname was inspired by his titanic window-like glasses. Dan Fogler plays Hutch, a guy who is a force to be reckoned with, a hot-head overflowing with piss and vinegar. Sam Huntington plays Eric, a guy who’s all business. He’s usually in a pressed suit and glued to his huge cell phone. Chris Marquette plays Linus, a boyishly handsome, extremely charming young man. But looks can be deceiving as this dude’s a geek and proud of it! Kristen Bell plays Zoe, a sexy firecracker with a great sense of humor.
The film is directed by Kyle Newman and produced by Kevin Spacey, Dana Brunetti, Evan Astrowsky and Matthew Perniciaro. The script was written by Kyle Newman, Adam Goldberg and Ernest Cline and Kevin Mann serves as executive producer.
