Malgorzata Szumowska is eyeing an Oscar nomination for “Never Gonna Snow Again,” Poland’s pick for Best International Feature at this year’s Academy Awards, and now word comes that she’s teaming up with a two-time Oscar nominee for her next feature. Naomi Watts has signed on to topline and produce Szumowska’s “Infinite Storm” with Bleecker Street and Sony Pictures Worldwide Acquisitions on board. Variety broke the news.
Slated to kick off production later this month, “Infinite Storm” is based on a true story and follows Pam Bales, “a mother, nurse, and mountain guide who was on a solitary trek up Mount Washington when she got caught in a blizzard, leading to the daring rescue of a stranger.”
“This story begins as one woman’s journey for self-discovery and turns into a harrowing tale of survival. We
are proud to bring Pam Bales’ dramatic and emotional venture to the big screen,” said Andrew Karpen, CEO of Bleecker Street.
Szumowska said she has “admired and wanted to work with [Watts] for a long time,” and described Bales as a “rare and courageous woman whose journey is gripping and hopeful.”
“Never Gonna Snow Again” centers on a Ukrainian migrant working as a masseur in Poland. The Academy will announce a shortlist of 15 titles in the running for Best International Feature February 9.
Szumowska’s “Mug” and “Body” both won Silver Bears at the Berlin International Film Festival. Her English-language debut, “The Other Lamb,” made its world premiere at the 2019 Toronto International Film Festival.
Watts received Oscar nods for “The Impossible” and “21 Grams.” “The Loudest Voice,” “Luce,” and “Twin Peaks” are among her more recent credits.
