Big Talk Pictures have announced that they will be making a film
based on the real-life Ascension Eagles story. Nira Park and
Damian Jones will produce the project, through Big Talk's UK
production outfit.
Ascension Eagles Cheerleaders (AEC) have been recognized as one
of the UK's most successful youth programs, as well as Britain's
best all-round cheerleaders. AEC aims to transform and inspire
young people to reach their full potential, while providing the
highest level of training, coaching and community development
work.
In addition to being Champions, AEC are committed to investing
in their community. In January 2010, Ascension Eagles opened
London's first cheer gym - Talent Central - at Gallions Reach
Shopping Park. Twenty AEC young leaders have earned
international coaching qualifications, and currently serve over
1000 young people every week.
Producer Damian Jones discovered the AEC story when he met a
former Ascension Eagle filming another project, and learned that
she attributed her success to the result of being an AEC
member. Damian brought the project to Big Talk. Matthew
Justice and Rachael Prior of Big Talk will be executive
producers. Daisy Donovan is writing the screenplay.
The project is the first into development under Big Talk's new
co-financing and co-production deal with Optimum/StudioCanal and
Film4. The first production under the deal - Attack The
Block directed by Joe Cornish - is currently shooting in
London.
"This project is a gift," said Nira Park. "It brings together
classic fish out of water comedy elements with a unique feel-good
wish fulfillment story. It's also distinctly and brilliantly
British in the great tradition of home grown movies like Billy
Elliot and The Full Monty. The Ascension Eagles
story is crying out to be brought to the big screen, and we're
delighted to be making that happen. We can't wait to bring this
amazing story to an international audience."
Damian Jones said: "After learning about the origins of the
Ascension Eagles and after meeting the formidable Shara Brice and
her cheerleaders, I knew there was an incredible story here. Once
Daisy Donovan agreed to adapt it, Big Talk felt like the perfect
partner for it."
