Black Bear and Artist Equity to co-finance the drama, 'Nyad' writer Julia Cox's directorial debut
Oscar winners Renée Zellweger and Sissy Spacek will star with rising talent Mia Threapleton in “A Woman in the Sun.” Black Bear and Artist Equity have partnered with Zellweger’s Big Picture Co. on the drama, which marks the directorial debut of “Nyad” writer Julia Cox. Black Bear will introduce the project to international buyers at Cannes.
Zellweger is producing the project alongside Carmella Casinelli (for Big Picture Co.) and Kim Roth, with Greg Gertmenian co-producing. Production is slated to begin in September 2026. Related Stories Margo Price, Brandi Carlile, I'm With Her, S.G. Goodman Score Multiple Nominations for Americana Honors & Awards
“A Woman in the Sun” follows a month in the life of Claire Keating, a bartender on Nantucket and part of the island’s dwindling middle class. When her mother gets sick and her daughter moves home, Claire’s world cracks open. Both fragile and tough, Claire must reckon with her past and take ownership of her future. This multi-generational story explores the beauty, agony, and hilarity of loving other people deeply.
Black Bear and Artists Equity are co-financing the project, with Black Bear set to distribute the film in North America and the UK, as well as in Canada via Elevation Pictures.
The movie project reunites Cox and Black Bear following the success of 2023’s “Nyad,” which earned two Academy Award nominations and a WGA nod for Cox.
“As soon as I met Julia, I knew she was destined to be an incredible director, and working with her closely on ‘Nyad’ only strengthened my belief in her as an artist and leader,” said Black Bear CEO Teddy Schwarzman. “With ‘A Woman in the Sun,’ she has created that perfect vehicle to transition from acclaimed writer to world-caliber director. The story is both singular and universal, and Julia will no doubt capture unforgettably rich performances from Renée, Sissy, and Mia.”
He added: “Black Bear is honored to back this powerful film alongside our good friends at Artists Equity, and we can’t wait to share it with audiences soon.”
Source: variety.com