Schwarzenegger's zombie film 'Maggie' to get early 2015 release

SANTA MONICA, Calif., Aug. 27 (UPI) -- Lionsgate says it has acquired the North American distribution rights to the apocalyptic thriller Maggie, starring Arnold Schwarzenegger, Abigail Breslin and Joely Richardson.

The announcement was made Tuesday by Lionsgate Co-Chief Operating Officer and Motion Picture Group President Steve Beeks, as well as Bill Johnson and Jim Seibel, co-chairs of Lotus Entertainment, who produced and handled international sales for the movie. Directed by Henry Hobson, the film is set for theatrical release early next year. It is about the relationship between a father and daughter after the teen is infected by a zombie virus that has plagued most of the world.

"Maggie has all the ingredients that spell commercial excitement -- a compelling script and an A-list superstar surrounded by a world-class cast," Beeks said in a statement.

"We're delighted to continue our relationship with Arnold Schwarzenegger, who turns in a performance that marks a dramatic departure from his action persona, and partner with our friends at Lotus Entertainment on a film that will resonate with thriller aficionados everywhere." "Lionsgate is a world-renowned brand, and we're pleased to collaborate with Steve Beeks, Rob Friedman, Patrick Wachsberger and a motion picture team that has established a superb track record with this kind of material," Johnson and Seibel said in a joint statement. "Maggie takes the zombie genre in exciting new directions, and it offers something for everyone -- star power, horror, suspense and riveting performances that will keep moviegoers on the edge of their seats."