Netflix just may have scored its biggest success since jumping into the movie-making game. The streaming service just snapped up War Machine, the new film from Australian director David Michod that just happens to star Brad Pitt.
Netflix, Pitt and his Plan B Entertainment announced the unprecedented deal, which could make the streaming company a legitimate player in the 2016 Oscar race. The film is being produced by Ian Bryce (World War Z) and Pitt’s Plan B partners, Dede Gardner and Jeremy Kleiner.
The film is inspired by Michael Hastings’ The Operators: The Wild and Terrifying inside Story of America’s War In Afghanistan. It will center on a four star general who commands the U.S. forces in Afghanistan, while also trying to build international alliances and navigating Washington politics.
“War Machine is a rip-roaring, behind-the-facade tale of modern war decision-makers, from the corridors of power to the distant regions of Americas ambitions,” Netflix Chief Content Officer Ted Sarandos said in a statement. “Brad and David are a perfect team to make this timely, compelling and entertaining film
“We are so excited to be a part of the inspiring commitment by Netflix to produce cutting-edge content and to deliver it to a global audience,” Pitt added.
Michod shot to fame with his acclaimed Animal Kingdom, which earned an Oscar nomination for Jacki Weaver’s supporting performance. His most recent film is The Rover, which paired Guy Pearce with Robert Pattinson.
Netflix said that they will distribute the film theatrically and to Netflix users in 2016. It is easily the company’s biggest move since jumping into movies. They also secured distribution of Beasts of No Nation with Idris Elba and a four-picture deal with Adam Sandler. But it’s safe to say that Pitt’s profile eclipses both of theirs.
In addition to features, Netflix also has a deal with Leonardo DiCaprio, who is producing documentaries. His Virunga was the first Netflix movie to be nominated for an Oscar earlier this year.
image courtesy of INFphoto.com