Exactly two years ago at this time, many were glued to the television following the fate of thirty three Chilean miners who were trapped a half-mile underground. Sixty nine days later, every single worker was rescued and reunited with their families, so naturally Hollywood has been scouring for talent to produce a feature film on this triumphant story.
The Wrap has learned that one has been found with Patricia Riggen coming on board to direct the film currently going under the title The 33. Producer Mike Medavoy, who has worked on such projects as Zodiac, Black Swan and Shutter Island, is spearheading the film, which will be shot entirely in English (of course). As the team is currently meeting in Chile, we’ve got a few details on the structure of the film, which will follow both the workers, rescuers and families. They’ll even include details that have yet to be released to the public.
Riggen is coming off this year’s Eva Mendes-starrer Girl In Progress, but she got more acclaim for the 2007 drama Under the Same Moon. That was the film that got her the gig as well, with Medavoy saying, ““I saw in her film not only her talent but the real humanity and humor that this film needs. Patricia has the heart and sensibility to bring this story to life in a way that accurately reflects what the miners and their families endured.” I’m certainly not expecting another Ace in the Hole, but hopefully this team can do justice to the story.
Production begins this January in Chile for a fall 2013 release.
Who do you want to see star in the film?