Carrie Fisher’s movie Wonderwell has a release date after a ‘dangerous’ seven years, deadline reported Wednesday.
The late Star Wars icon, who passed away at the age of 60 in late 2016, wrapped the fantasy film weeks before her death.
Fisher stars in the feature film alongside Rita Ora, Nell Tiger Free, Sebastian Croft and rising star Kiera Milward.
The film is the directorial debut of Vlad Marsavin and will hit theaters on June 23, 2023, followed by a digital release.
It comes after Vertical acquired the rights to the project in North America and the UK/Ireland.
Coming Soon: Carrie Fisher’s movie Wonderwell has a release date after a “dangerous” seven years, Deadline reported Wednesday
Co-star: Singer and actress Rita Ora will appear alongside the late star in the upcoming film
Marsavin told Deadline of the upcoming release, “The journey we’ve taken as filmmakers with this movie has been as perilous as that of the movie itself.”
He continued, “From film to screen, it took us seven years. The visual effects on a film of this magnitude take time, but we were challenged by Covid lockdowns and of course the passing of our wonderful Carrie Fisher.
“This is the perfect time to share her magical moments on screen as Hazel.”
The director said the film’s release was put off by visual effects obstacles affecting its budget, causing a lengthy delay.
He also noted that the film will include a tribute to Fisher, whose death came as a “huge shock” to him.
After suffering a heart attack on a flight from London to Los Angeles in December 2016, the iconic star died four days later.
Reminiscing about Carrie, Vlad told the outlet, “Carrie was full of energy during filming and even celebrated her 60th birthday with us in Italy where we shot the movie.
After a night shoot, which lasted until 2am, she invited the whole team to celebrate with her and the party was eventually shut down by the police as it was deemed a bit too loud.
“Her passing was very emotional for the whole team.”
Flashback: Carrie depicted in 1977’s Star Wars Episode IV – A New Hope
Rita recalled her time with the legend when she said, “Working with Carrie Fisher was one of those experiences you never forget.
“I can’t wait for the world to see this intriguing and magical world of Wonderwell.”
The film is set in a setting that combines contemporary Italy and an imaginative world.
It is a coming-of-age story that follows Violet (played by Milward), a curious girl living in Italy with her American parents and older sister, Savannah (played by Tiger Free).
Savannah is chosen as a model for fashion designer Yana’s (played by Ora) label, prompting the family of four to travel to a medieval village for a photo shoot.
Feeling overshadowed by her beautiful older sibling, Violet wanders into a forest where she encounters Hazel (Fisher), who gives her a warning to Danieled, Yana’s troubled stepson, Daniele (played by Croft).
Violet is then shown a portal that gives her a glimpse into what her future might look like.
Fred Roos, known for his collaboration with Ford Coppola, produced the film together with Alexander Roos, Orian Williams, Lee Rudnicki, Robert Bernacchi and Marsavin.
LR: Carrie’s daughter Billie Lourd, mother Debbie Reynolds, Carrie pictured in January 2015
Rudnicki had previously shared that watching Fisher’s “heartbreaking” final scene in the film brought tears to his eyes.
William Ross provided the music for the film and the screenplay was written by William Brookfield.
Tony Piantedosi, Senior Vice President of Vertical’s Acquisitions, said, ‘A whimsical story with captivating visuals, the film really transports the viewer to another realm.
Newcomer Kiera Milward holds her own with legends Carrie and Rita captivating in their roles. It’s a film that will appeal to consumers of all ages.’