When the Swedish success film “A man named Ove” is transformed into an English version, Ove changes his name to Otto. Old Man Hanks is ready for the lead role in the American film adaptation of Fredrik Backman’s successful novel. Read more about the English version of Swedish film starring Tom Hanks.
The 2012 book by Fredrik Backman was a mainstay on The New York Times best-seller list for a consecutive 77 weeks and has been translated into 43 different languages. A Man Called Ove was nominated for two Academy Awards last year and was the highest-grossing foreign language film in the United States in 2016. In addition, the film was awarded with Best Comedy prize at the European Film Awards in 2016.
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Starring Tom Hanks – Producer Fredrik Wikström Nicastro
The film company SF Studios states that they are changing the main character’s name to Otto to adapt the film to the American market. The shooting of “A Man Called Otto” began earlier this month in Pittsburgh.
“We are thrilled and extremely happy to have joined forces with Tom Hanks and the very successful Playtone in this project,” says CEO of SF Studios Michael Porseryd. Producer Fredrik Wikström Nicastro continues, “I strongly believe that A Man Called Ove is a universal story that resonates strongly with an American and international audience. Making this film with one of the world’s best and most acclaimed actors gives A Man Called Ove the best possible opportunity to once again touch the hearts of audiences worldwide.”
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The Plot
The film stars a widower (Hanks) who seems to enjoy his loneliness and misery. Though he has frequently tried to end his life, something always seems to go wrong. His life suddenly takes a change when a mixed-race couple moves into the neighborhood. Ove beings to form a friendship with the couple that will significantly improve his way of life.
Global rights to Sony
Sony has taken global rights to the red-hot package from CAA Media Finance for around $60 million and is planning a wide domestic theatrical release in December.
English Version of Swedish Film Starring Tom Hanks, written by Tor Kjolberg
Feature image (on top): Press photo