Cannes: Stephen Dorff joins Nick Love action film

Stephen Dorff has signed on to star in director Nick Love’s untitled US action film, which begins shooting on May 28 for six weeks in New Orleans.

Protagonist Pictures will introduce buyers to the project during Cannes.

Dorff, star of Blade and Somewhere, will play Melvin, a reluctant superhero, whose appetite for self-destruction proves devastating. Additional cast will be announced soon.

The film is based on an original screenplay by Love and will be produced by Vertigo’s Allan Niblo, James Richardson and Hubi Von Liel.

Vertigo Distribution will distribute in the UK.

Set amongst the hurricane-battered projects of New Orleans, the film tells the story of Melvin (Dorff) a reluctant superhero who lives only for crime, women and drugs – until he realizes that the only way he will ever get to see his son is to go straight and fulfil his potential as a crime fighter. 

But in a world where no one understands Melvin’s condition or where it came from, his incredible powers could ultimately be his demise.

Love, whose previous films include The Sweeney, The Football Factory and The Business, said: “I’m very excited to be working with a true Hollywood legend. Stephen will bring a intelligence, sensitivity, mischief and soul to his character.”

Dorff added: “I am also incredibly excited. The idea is very unique and original.  I can’t wait to start shooting”

Other Vertigo films at Cannes include Protagonist titles Monsters: Dark Continent, Kill Command and Sword Of Vengeance; Pudsey The Dog: The Movie with Content Film; and Walking On Sunshine with IM Global.