Harbour, Tideway to produce sibling rivalry story Blood Over Water

UK-based Harbour Pictures (Kinky Boots, Calendar Girls) is working with Tideway Films to produce the film version David and James Livingston’s book Blood Over Water.

Tideway acquired the film rights to the book, which is about the sibling rivalry of two brothers rowing against each other in the famed Oxford & Cambridge boat race in 2003.

In fact, Chrome Productions CEO Joel Mishcon (Gumball Rally) specifically set up Tidway to produce the film.

Harbour CEO Nick Barton will co-produce while Paul Ritchie (Slumdog Millionaire) will serve as line producer.

The Executive Producer is Robert Prevezer of The Communications Agency.

Boris Starling has adapted the script, which is now out to directors.

Mishcon said: “The actual race gripped not just the UK but 180 countries, while David and James’ book went on to garner acclaim and win awards, making the project perfect to adapt for the big screen. What’s more, it will be a privilege working with Harbour Pictures who are renowned for their exceptional British filmmaking.”

Harbour’s Barton added: “We are delighted to be going to Cannes with a really strong slate and in particular anticipate great interest in Blood Over Water. It’s a fantastic story with universal appeal as it is ultimately about sibling rivalry; something which is as old as time.”

Second unit filming was already undertaken during this year’s boat race.

Harbour’s projects also include Swallows and Amazons; A Map of the Universe by director Susanna White, and Julian Fellowes’ script Nelson and Emma.