Verdi Productions, run by Chad A. Verdi (“The Irishman,” “Bleed for This”), Paul Luba, Chad Verdi, Jr.
and Michelle Verdi, plans to release three films in 2024 that were previously put on hold since actors were unable to promote work during the WGA and SAG-AFTRA strikes.
“Workers in the film industry are getting financially destroyed by these strikes, whether it’s actors, writers, directors or crew. Most of these individuals were already working multiple jobs to get by,” Verdi said in a statement. “This widespread production shutdown didn’t hurt the top 1% in the industry but ruined many people who work week-to-week and paycheck-to-paycheck. It’s very unfortunate to see. Let’s get our union members a fair deal so that they can get back to doing what they love.”
In partnership with VMI Worldwide, Verdi Productions will release “Junction” in January. The film follows the modern-day opioid crisis through three different viewpoints: the CEO of a pharmaceutical company, a doctor and a patient. Bryan Greenberg will direct, write and star in the film. Ashley Madekwe, Griffin Dunne, Sophia Bush, Jamie Chung, Ryan Eggold, Dascha Polanco and Josh Peck also star in the film.
“Knockout Blonde” is slated to release in 2024. The documentary follows the life of transgender boxing promoter Kellie Maloney, who managed Lennox Lewis as he earned the title of undisputed heavyweight champion of the world. The production, in collaboration with Art Factory Films, explores Maloney’s journey navigating and concealing her gender identity while becoming one of the most successful boxing promoters.
Directed and written by Heather Graham, “Chosen Family” is planned for a late 2024 release. Graham stars in the film as Ann, a yoga teacher attempting to find inner peace despite her manic family and miserable dating life. Not knowing how to say no, Ann often ends up fixing everyone else’s problems. While trying to repair her relationship with her sister, Ann relies on her friends to guide her through life’s woes. Joining the cast is Julia Stiles, portraying Ann’s estranged sister Clio, along with Thomas Lennon, Andrea Savage, John Brotherton and Michael Gross.
Verdi Productions also plans to produce four films starting in March, with shooting in Rhode Island, Italy, Monaco and Thailand.
Verdi Productions’ recent films include “Savage Salvation,” “Johnny & Clyde,” “Space Oddity” and “Superpower.”
