Lionsgate will handle US distribution of Peaceful Warrior, the film based on Dan Millman'sself-help international bestseller Way Of The Peaceful Warrior which was produced by Mark Amin's Sobini Films.

Lionsgate-based Sobini recently bought back domestic rights fromBlockbuster after producing the picture with DEJ Productions. Los Angeles-basedInferno Distribution retains international rights.

The picture is currently in post-production and is set to open onJun 2. Victor Salva directs Scott Mechlowicz in his first lead role as apromising athlete whose life undergoes a dramatic U-turn when he encounters asage played by Nick Nolte. Amy Smart, Agnes Bruckner, Ashton Holmes and PaulWesley also star.

Amin produced with Sobinipresident Cami Winikoff, president of production Robin Schorr and David Welch.

"We are pleased to again be in control of a film which hasbeen a labour of love for me over the years," Amin said. "Sometimes you have to put yourmoney where your passion is and we were able to do that with this film.

"With Peaceful Warrior, I feel that we've accomplished what we set out to do sinceI first read the book many years ago:making a special film with a universal story about a young man trying toanswer the big questions about how to live a meaningful life."

Winikoffnegotiated the deal with Matthew Smith and Mitzi Brown on behalf ofBlockbuster, and Lionsgate's Tom Ortenberg. Sobini's upcoming projects includethe drama Prey,comedy Speechless(formerly The Guided Man), and thriller Blackwell's Island.