Lionsgate continues to make a mark in the Young Adult arena. The studio won the film rights to Judy Blume’s novel Are You There, God? It’s Me, Margaret. It teamed up again with Five Feet Apart filmmaker Justin Baldoni, who will direct a feature adaptation of Katie Khan’s novel 'Hold Back the Stars'.
According to news obtained by Deadline, Baldoni will direct and produce using a screenplay written by Christy Hall. Shawn Levy and Dan Cohen from 21 Laps will produce the film.
Khan’s novel, from Gallery Books, follows the story of a young man and woman who revisit memories of their relationship on a utopian Earth while trapped in space with only 90 minutes of oxygen left.
Lionsgate distributed CBS Films’ Five Feet Apart. It made $91.5 million-plus at the global box office. The project continues its collaboration between 21 Laps and playwright Christy Hall. Hall is also the co-creator, writer, and executive producer of the recent Netflix series I Am Not Okay with This.
Lionsgate president of production Erin Westerman said. “We’re huge fans of Justin and what he accomplished with Five Feet Apart. He’s incredibly talented at capturing the romance, tragedy, and buoyancy of young love. He will further elevate material we are already very excited about!”
Baldoni commented. “I’m thrilled to be working with my friends at Lionsgate and 21 Laps on this unique and exceptional story. As a firm believer that love has the power to unify and conquer all, I deeply connected with Hall’s unique take on the ‘ star-crossed lovers’ story. With its thrilling action, deep-rooted romance, and powerful message, I couldn’t be more excited to bring this story to life.”
Deadline also recently stated that Lionsgate will reteam with the Five Feet Apart screenwriters Mikki Daughtry and Tobias Iaconis on the follow-up novel All This Time. All This Time is written by Daughtry and Rachael Lippincott.
