Apple Acquires Jennifer Lawrence's Murder Mystery "The Wives" in Competitive Bid

Apple Original Films has secured the rights to "The Wives," a forthcoming murder mystery featuring Jennifer Lawrence, amidst intense industry competition. The film, likened to a blend of intrigue and glamour reminiscent of "The Real Housewives," promises to captivate audiences with its suspenseful plot and star-studded production team.

Lawrence will not only star in but also produce "The Wives" through her company, Excellent Cadaver, alongside Justine Ciarrocchi. The project will also see production involvement from Tony and Independent Spirit Award nominee Jeremy O. Harris, known for his work on "Zola" and "Slave Play," and Josh Godfrey under their bb2 banner. Writers Michael Breslin and Patrick Foley, renowned for their Pulitzer Prize finalist play "Circle Jerk," are set to pen the screenplay.

The collaboration between Apple Studios and A24, who previously collaborated on the 2022 drama "Causeway," starring Lawrence, marks a strategic partnership aimed at delivering compelling narratives to global audiences. Currently in the developmental phase, details about the final plot and production timeline for "The Wives" have yet to be disclosed.

Apple and A24's track record includes successful joint ventures such as "High and Low," Spike Lee’s anticipated remake starring Denzel Washington, and "The Tragedy of Macbeth," directed by Joel Coen and starring Washington and Frances McDormand.

Jennifer Lawrence, known for her roles in "No Hard Feelings" and "Don’t Look Up," as well as the blockbuster "The Hunger Games," brings her signature charisma and talent to "The Wives," promising a performance that will resonate with audiences.

Jeremy O. Harris, concurrently developing new series for FX, HBO, and Legendary, continues to expand his creative portfolio following the acclaim of "Slave Play."

Excellent Cadaver and bb2 are represented respectively by LBI and CAA, showcasing their ongoing commitment to fostering innovative storytelling in film. Michael Breslin and Patrick Foley are represented by CAA and Shreck Rose Dapello Adam Berlin and Dunham LLP, underscoring their influence in shaping contemporary narrative discourse.

Why This Matters: The acquisition of "The Wives" by Apple highlights the increasing competition in securing high-profile projects in the entertainment industry. Jennifer Lawrence's involvement alongside acclaimed producers and writers sets high expectations for the film's creative direction and commercial success.

Key Takeaways:

• Apple Original Films secures rights to "The Wives" amidst competitive bids.
• Jennifer Lawrence to star in and produce the murder mystery under her company, Excellent Cadaver.
• Project helmed by acclaimed writers Michael Breslin and Patrick Foley.
• Partnership between Apple Studios and A24 strengthens with this collaboration.
• Film's development marks another milestone in Apple's expanding film slate.