The Bikeriders: Austin Butler’s Film Secures New Home with Focus Features
Barely a week after 20th Century Studios withdrew ‘The Bikeriders’ from its scheduled theatrical release, there’s good news for fans of the upcoming movie. Deadline has reported that Focus Features has successfully secured the global theatrical distribution rights for the film.
The highly anticipated Austin Butler-led project is now in the hands of Focus Features, with plans for a theatrical release in 2024. Initially, the film was intended for a December 1, 2023 premiere but faced delays due to the SAG-AFTRA strike. The movie had its world premiere at the 50th Telluride Film Festival in August.
In a statement, Focus Features chairman Peter Kujawski expressed excitement about adding this compelling project to the studio’s robust lineup for the coming year. Kujawski stated, ‘We look forward to once again working alongside New Regency and reuniting with the multi-talented Jeff Nichols on another one of his visionary projects. This film exemplifies our commitment to collaborate with the industry’s best filmmakers and production partners, and we can’t wait to build upon its early success to draw audiences into this poignant film bolstered by powerful performances from an incredible cast.’
The Bikeriders boasts an impressive ensemble cast, including Tom Hardy, Jodie Comer, Norman Reedus, Michael Shannon, Boyd Holbrook, Toby Wallace, Karl Glusman, Mike Faist, Damon Herriman, Emory Cohen, Beau Knapp, and Happy Anderson.
The film, inspired by Danny Lyon’s 1967 photography book of the same name, follows Kathy, a strong-willed member of the Vandals, married to the wild bikerider Benny. Kathy recounts the Vandals’ evolution from a local club of outsiders to a more dangerous gang over a decade. As tensions rise, choices about loyalty to the club and each other become increasingly critical.
Jeff Nichols, the film’s writer and director, helms this project, with Fred Berger, Sam Hanson, David Kern, Yariv Milchan, and Michael Schaefer serving as executive producers. Arnon Milchan, Kierke Panisnick, and Donald Sparks take on production duties, promising audiences a gripping cinematic experience.