FilmNation Scores Sci-Fi Thriller Spec ‘Aether’

EXCLUSIVE: Just when it seemed we might see a week without a big spec script auction, FilmNation Entertainment just landed Aether, and will produce, finance and handle worldwide sales on the sci-fi thriller written by Krysty Wilson-Cairns. FilmNation is moving quickly, already looking for a director for the British writer’s script. Plot details are currently being kept under wraps. “I’m astounded by the level of talent and inventiveness we’ve come across from such a young voice,” said FilmNation production president Aaron Ryder. “We’re terribly excited to produce this film. We’re also anxious to learn how to pronounce its title!”

Wilson-Cairns initially developed the script with her UK agent and then wrote on spec. It was brought in by FilmNation director of development Patrick Chu. Ryder, along with EVP Karen Lunder, will shepherd the project. The deal was done by FilmNation’s Alison Cohen and United Agents’ Marnie Podos and attorney Tara S. Kole.

“I am absolutely thrilled to be working alongside such a talented group of likeminded people,” said the scribe. “FilmNation makes the kind of movies I love to watch, and I am so pleased we’ve put Aether into their safe hands.

This adds to a FilmNation slate that includes the Denis Villeneuve-directed Story Of Your Life, the Meryl Streep-Robert De Niro starrer The Good House, and The Rules Of Inheritance with Jennifer Lawrence. The company recently brought Dan Beers’ high school sex comedy Premature as an official selection to the SXSW Film Festival where it was well received by audiences and critics alike.