Burns & Co. Entertainment will partner with Fathom Entertainment for the U.S. theatrical distribution of “Jimmy,” an upcoming film about Oscar-winning screen legend Jimmy Stewart. The movie will open nationwide with a traditional theatrical release beginning on Nov. 6.
KJ Apa of “Riverdale” fame stars as Stewart in this look at one of the most pivotal times in the actor’s life, a period that saw him go from winning the Academy Award for “The Philadelphia Story” to serving as a combat pilot and commander in World War II. Stewart flew 20 missions over Europe, rising to the rank of colonel, only to return emotionally exhausted. That’s when the role of George Bailey in “It’s a Wonderful Life” arrived.
The all-star cast includes Kara Killmer (“Chicago Fire”) as Lady Julia; Neal McDonough (“Justified”) as Stewart’s father, Alexander; Max Casella (“Tulsa King”) as Frank Capra; Jason Alexander (“Seinfeld”) as Louis B. Mayer; Christopher McDonald (“Happy Gilmore”) as Lionel Barrymore; Sarah Drew (“Grey’s Anatomy”) as Hedda Hopper; Rob Riggle (“Step Brothers”) as Colonel Terrill; Julian Works (“9-1-1:Lone Star”) as Second Lieutenant Martinez; Jemma Donovan (“Neighbours”) as Ginger Rogers; and Jen Lilley (“Days of Our Lives”) as Gloria Stewart. Aaron Burns (“Beyond The Mask”) directed the movie from a script by Justin Strawhand (“The Mythmakers”).
“We are thrilled to partner with Fathom on the U.S. distribution of ‘Jimmy.’ The Fathom team has the passion and commitment to excellence that we were really looking for in a theatrical partner,” said Burns. “We are honored that ‘Jimmy’ will be widely available to audiences across the country, not only because ‘Jimmy’ is a movie for all audiences, but because it will inspire and remind Americans of the importance of true heroes like Jimmy Stewart in our midst.”
“Fathom Entertainment is thrilled to partner with Burns & Co. and bring ‘Jimmy’ – the fascinating and inspiring story of the iconic American actor Jimmy Stewart – to the big screen,” Ray Nutt, CEO of Fathom Entertainment, adding that the movie “is a special film — filled with genuine heart and terrific performances — from a remarkable ensemble cast that brings Hollywood’s golden age and the battlefields of World War II vividly to life.”
Fathom also announced that it will bring back “It’s a Wonderful Life” to theaters beginning on Dec. 18 for its 80th anniversary.
Nutt will host Apa and debut “Jimmy” footage to attendees of CinemaCon, the annual movie theater industry convention being held in April, during his prepared remarks at the filmmakers luncheon program on April 16.
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