It has been announced that filmmaker Cary Fukunaga (‘Jane Eyre,’ ‘True Detective’) is in development on an untitled father-son drama feature for A24, which he will produce and direct.
The drama is based upon the true story of Oregonian father-and-son Joe and Jadin Bell. Jadin, a fifteen-year-old openly gay sophomore, took his own life after being both bullied at high school and struggling for acceptance from the people closest to him. In the wake of Jadin’s suicide, Joe is plunged into a sea of remorse and regret. Attempting to work through his grief, Joe sets out on a walk across America, hoping to promote awareness about the consequences of prejudice to anyone he encounters along the way.
“Joe and Jadin Bell’s story is a poignant reminder of how precious life is, and a life-affirming example of love transcending the prejudice and victimization familiar to many,” said A24 in a statement. “Cary is a truly exceptional filmmaker. We are honoured to help bring his vision of this incredible true story to screen. With the legendary talents of Larry and Diana writing the script, we have no doubt this will be a profoundly emotional and unforgettable film.”
‘Brokeback Mountain’ screenwriters Larry McMurtry and Diana Ossana are on board to provide the script.
Fukunaga’s latest offering, the African war drama ‘Beasts of No Nation’ starring Idris Elba, will be released exclusively on Netflix later this year.