In Cannes, Momentum Pictures has taken UK and Spanish rights to Defiance, the WWII action drama being planned by Ed Zwick.

Bedford Falls and Grosvenor Park are producing and financing. As previously reported, Daniel Craig will star in the film, based on the true story of four brothers who built an armed resistance of Jewish fighters.

Richard Napper, Momentum's managing director Europe, said: 'With such an epic script and strong talent attached we are very excited to be working with Essential and Grosvenor on this project in both the UK and Spain.'

The deal was negotiated by Essential Entertainment's CEO Jere Hausfater and Robert Walak, director of acquisitions for Momentum Pictures.