Cannes: Saban Films Lands Elijah Wood Horror-Comedy 'Come to Daddy'

The Ant Timpson-helmed movie also stars Stephen McHattie and Martin Donovan.

Saban Films has acquired U.S. rights to producer Ant Timpson’s directorial debut Come to Daddy, which made its world premiere at the Tribeca Film Festival last month.

The horror-comedy stars Elijah Wood (The Lord of the Rings franchise, Wilfred) alongside Stephen McHattie (Watchmen, Mother!) and Martin Donovan (Ant-Man, Big Little Lies).

Written by Toby Harvard, the story centers on a man in his 30s (Wood) who travels to a remote cabin to reconnect with his estranged father (McHattie).The screenplay is based on an idea from Timpson.

“Come to Daddy’s horror and comedy mix is perfectly balanced and creates a wonderfully wild atmosphere that’ll keep audiences guessing — all the way through,” Saban Films’ Bill Bromiley said.

The film is produced by Mette-Marie Kongsved and Laura Tunstall for Nowhere, Daniel Bekerman for Scythia Films, Katie Holly for Blinder Films, Emma Slade for Firefly Films and Toby Harvard. Tango Entertainment financed the Canada/New Zealand/Ireland co-production with support from the New Zealand Film Commission, Telefilm, Blinder Films and Egg Post Production. Timpson, Tim Headington and Lia Buman executive produced.

Saban Films is planning a theatrical release.

Bromiley and Jonathan Saba negotiated the deal for Saban Films along with Nate Bolotin of XYZ Films on behalf of the filmmakers.