Matthew McConaughey, Gugu Mbatha-Raw start shooting 'Free State of Jones'

NEW ORLEANS, March 10 (UPI) -- Writer-director Gary Ross has begun shooting the film The Free State of Jones in and around New Orleans, STX Entertainment announced.

Set during the American Civil War, the epic action-drama is to star Matthew McConaughey, Gugu Mbatha-Raw, Keri Russell and Mahershala Ali. The film is being produced by Scott Stuber through his Blue Grass Films shingle, with Jon Kilik producing through his Jon Kilik Productions, and Ross producing through his Larger Than Life Productions.

The film is set for release in U.S. theaters March 11, 2016. It tells the story of "defiant Southern farmer Newt Knight, and his extraordinary armed rebellion against the Confederacy," a synopsis said.

"I am thrilled to be continuing a relationship with Gary Ross that began with Seabiscuit. He's an incredible filmmaker with a unique visual style, and with The Free State of Jones he brings a compelling and impactful untold story that is gritty and thrilling while also being heartfelt and intelligent. We are extremely proud that this is one of the first films STX Entertainment will be bringing to audiences," Adam Fogelson, chairman of STX Entertainment's motion picture group, said in a statement Monday.