'Winter's Tale' to open in North America in February

BURBANK, Calif., Aug. 20 (UPI) -- Warner Bros. Pictures says it has set a February North America release date for "Winter's Tale," the directorial debut of screenwriter Akiva Goldsman.

The big-screen adaptation of Mark Helprin's novel is to open Feb. 14, with international dates to follow.

The announcement was made by Dan Fellman, the studio's president of domestic distribution, and Veronika Kwan Vandenberg, president of international distribution.

"We look forward to unveiling 'Winter's Tale' as Akiva's directorial debut," Fellman said in a statement last Friday. "It features a remarkable roster of acting talent and a sweeping, romantic story that's ideally suited for the holiday play period."

"With its pedigree and stellar international cast, this epic, moving tale will have broad appeal overseas," said Kwan Vandenberg. "The February date provides us a strong corridor in which to launch the film worldwide."

Starring Colin Farrell, Jessica Brown Findlay, Jennifer Connelly, William Hurt, Eva Marie Saint and Russell Crowe, the film is set in New York City and spans more than a century.

Warner Bros. described it as "a story of miracles, crossed destinies, and the age-old battle between good and evil."