MONTREAL — Canadian filmmaker Xavier Dolan’s first English-language feature is coming to theatres across Canada on Aug. 23.

“The Death and Life of John F. Donovan” features a cast of top Hollywood actors including Kit Harington, Natalie Portman, Jacob Tremblay, Susan Sarandon, Kathy Bates and Thandie Newton.

Dolan and fellow Quebecer Jacob Tierney co-wrote the script, which centres on a TV star who confides in a young fan about his struggles living in the public eye over a years-long correspondence.

In a news release, the president of Les Films Seville said discussions are still underway regarding a U.S. release, but the company decided to go ahead and announce Canadian dates rather than wait for a simultaneous North American release.

The film premiered at the Toronto International Film Festival last fall, and in August will hit theatres in major Canadian and Quebec markets, including Montreal, Toronto, Vancouver, Calgary and Quebec City.

Les Films Seville said the release date for Dolan’s next film, “Matthias & Maxime,” will be announced Thursday.

The Canadian Press