Sony Pictures is nearing a deal worth around $25 million to secure worldwide rights to the horror film Skeletons, starring Oscar winner Brie Larson, in what has become the largest agreement emerging from this year’s European Film Market (EFM). The acquisition follows intense competition from multiple bidders seeking domestic rights to the project.
Production Details and Creative Team Behind ‘Skeletons’
Produced by J.J. Abrams alongside FilmNation, with sales managed by WME and CAA, the film is set to begin shooting this summer. JT Mollner, known for Strange Darling, will direct this creature feature, which centers on a young boy uncovering unsettling truths about his mother’s hidden nature. Casting is currently underway for the roles of the son and father.
Brian Duffield, the screenwriter behind No One Will Save You and currently in post-production on Whalefall for 20th Century and Imagine, penned the script. The screenplay is adapted from a short story by Philip Fracassi. Initially titled Fail-Safe, the project was retitled Skeletons and gained significant buzz at the EFM, positioning it as a highly sought-after pre-sale property.
J.J. Abrams Praises the Script and Cast at Cannes Announcement
When the project was first revealed at Cannes last year, J.J. Abrams described the screenplay as:
“Brian Duffield has written an absolute powerhouse of a script. It’s a horror film that is as sweet and moving as it is terrifying. To have JT Mollner in the director’s chair — his Strange Darling blew me away — is a dream come true. Finally, having the limitlessly talented Brie Larson as our star sets the film up to be that rare horror film that makes you laugh, feel, and care, before taking you on an absolutely wild ride.”
– J.J. Abrams, Producer and Creator
Production Companies and Executive Producers Involved
The movie is a collaboration between FilmNation Entertainment’s Infrared label, J.J. Abrams’ Bad Robot Productions, and Assemble Media. Producers include Drew Simon, J.J. Abrams, Jon Cohen, and Jack Heller. Executive producers feature Assemble’s Caitlin de Lisser-Ellen and Brian Duffield, along with Brie Larson and Philip Fracassi.
Sony’s Leadership in Negotiating the Acquisition
Sony’s negotiating team is led by Joe Matukewicz, President of Worldwide Acquisitions, along with Virginia Longmuir, EVP of Business Affairs, and Elan Kovo, Vice President of Business Development. This deal marks FilmNation’s second major sale this year following the Sundance acquisition of The Invite by A24, which was valued between $10 and $12 million.
Significance of the Deal Within the Film Market
The near $25 million investment from Sony underscores strong confidence in the horror genre and the film’s creative team. With J.J. Abrams’ involvement and Brie Larson leading the cast, Skeletons is positioned to combine emotional depth with genre thrills, attracting attention from both industry insiders and audiences. Sony’s win amid stiff competition signals the company’s strategic commitment to high-profile genre releases.
As filming prepares to start later this year, anticipation builds around how Skeletons will stand out in the crowded horror landscape, potentially offering a unique blend of suspense and heartfelt storytelling that could resonate widely upon release.
