Magnet Releasing, the specialized branch of Magnolia Pictures, has secured the rights for the North American distribution of ‘What You Wish For,’ an upcoming suspense-horror film written and directed by Nicholas Tomnay.
Featuring Nick Stahl (known for Showtime’s ‘Let the Right One In’), the film made its world debut at the Fantasia Festival, with Tamsin Topolski (‘Slow Horses’) and Randy Vasquez (‘America Has Fallen: Election Day’) also starring.
The plan is for Magnet to unveil the film to audiences this summer. Tomnay, who previously co-wrote and directed ‘The Perfect Host’ starring David Hyde Pierce, is at the helm of this new project.
The storyline revolves around Ryan, played by Stahl, a skilled chef whose overwhelming gambling issues lead him to hastily depart for an unnamed Latin American country. Seeking refuge, he turns to his friend Jack (portrayed by Brian Groh), a renowned chef facing his challenges.
As Ryan delves into Jack's seemingly lavish lifestyle, he becomes entangled in a grim turn of events. The film explores themes of envy, identity, and the consequences of coveting the life one desires.
Eamonn Bowles, co-CEO of Magnolia Pictures, praised Nicholas Tomnay for delivering a polished and unsettling film featuring a remarkable performance by Nick Stahl. Tomnay, who both wrote the screenplay and directed the movie, expressed excitement about the partnership with Magnet for the release of ‘What You Wish For,’ highlighting Magnet's excellent taste and deep understanding of the film. He eagerly anticipates sharing this intriguing tale with audiences soon.
Produced by Evergreen Avenue in association with Freestyle Picture Company, ‘What You Wish For’ is a collaboration of Nicholas Tomnay, Francesca Silvestri, and Kevin Chinoy.
The negotiation for the deal was facilitated by Magnolia co-CEO Dori Begley and SVP of Acquisitions John Von Thaden, along with The Film Collaborative representing the filmmakers.
As the genre-focused branch of Magnolia Pictures, Magnet has a track record in horror, action, comedy, and Asian cinema. Some of their notable credits include Tomas Alfredson’s ‘Let the Right One In,’ Takeshi Miike’s ‘13 Assassins,’ Gareth Edwards’s ‘Monsters,’ and Neil Marshall’s epic ‘Centurion.’
– Farheen Ali
