Deadline reports that Emily Mortimer (Shutter Island, Hugo), Robyn Nevin (Gods of Egypt) and Bella Heathcote (Professor Marston and the Wonder Women) have been tapped to star in Natalie Erika James’ dementia-centered horror drama film Relic which marks her film directorial debut. Jake Gyllenhaal (Spider Man: Far From Home) and Riva Marker are also set to produce the film through their Nine Stories banner.
Relic was inspired from James’ own family experience which follows the story of a daughter, mother and grandmother who are haunted by signs of aged dementia that takes over their family home. The film’s script was written by James ad Christian White.
“Relic was inspired by the experience of Alzheimer’s within my own family and the shift in family dynamics as we slowly have to parent our parents,” said James in a statement. “At its core, it explores the fear and heartbreak of dementia and aging through a horror lens,”
Carver Films’ Anna McLeish and Sarah is producing the film with the Russo Brothers (untitled Avengers 4) and Mike Larocca to serve as executive producers. The film is being financed by AGBO, Screen Australia and Film Victoria with AGBO to handle its international sales.
“Relic’s allegorical view of dementia spoke to us in a profoundly emotional way and represents the very best of what the genre has to offer,” said Larocca. “Natalie is the exact filmmaker that AGBO serves to bolster and we’re proud to support her and help bring her powerful film to life.”
Mortimer will next be seen in Disney’s musical fantasy sequel Mary Poppins Returns starring alongside Emily Blunt and Lin-Manuel Miranda. Nevin is best known for her role as Councillor Dillard in the science fiction action film The Matrix trilogy. Heathcote’s film credits includes Dark Shadows, Pride and Prejudice and Zombie, and Fifty Shades Darker.
Relic‘s production is set to begin next week in Victoria, Australia.
