It seems that directors David Mackenzie, and actors Chris Pine and Ben Foster had so much fun making Hell or High Water that they’re teaming up once again. But instead of the arid plains of Texas, they will be in the lush hills of Scotland. The historical epic, titled Outlaw King, will be distributed by Netflix, while Anonymous Content and Scottish production company Sigma Films will produce.
The film will follow the historical events following the 1995 film Braveheart (although the films are not connected). In early 14th century Scotland, Robert the Bruce (Chris Pine) followed in the footsteps of William Wallace. He is joined by James Douglas (Ben Foster), a son of one of William Wallace’s first supporters. Robert the Bruce would become the first king of Scotland, and James Douglas would become his chief advisor, as well as most trusted friend.
In Braveheart, Angus Macfayden played Robert the Bruce, opposite Mel Gibson’s portrayal of William Wallace. Macfayden’s character was reflected in a more negative light than historically he perhaps should have been, and this new film hopes to bring his greatness to light.
Mackenzie, originally from Scotland, has had this film as a passion project for a long time, and is finally at the place in his career where he can complete it. He is also signed on to direct The Mission, a film about the 2008 rescue of 15 hostages from the guerrilla group in the Colombian jungle, as well as write/direct the film adaptation of A Stain on the Snow. Look for his TV movie Damnation to premiere on USA network later this year.
You can see Chris Pine next in the much anticipated Wonder Woman beside Gal Gadot. Next year, he can been seen as Dr. Alex Murray in Ava DuVernay’s A Wrinkle in Time. Ben Foster was also seen last year in Warcraft: The Beginning as well as Ron Howard’s Inferno alongside Tom Hanks. Look for him this year in Western drama Hostiles beside Rosamund Pike and Christian Bale, which will focus on the journey of a late 1800s Army captain, who reluctantly agrees to escort a Cheyenne chief and his family through dangerous territory He is also signed on to star in the film adaptation of Galveston with Elle Fanning, which will focus on the character of New Orleans hitman Roy Cady.
Stay tuned for more details about Outlaw King.