Dominic West, known for his role in 'The Crown', has joined forces with comedy veteran John Cleese of 'A Fish Called Wanda' and Portia de Rossi from 'Arrested Development' to star alongside Jeff Daniels in 'The Reception'. The film is an ensemble comedy directed by Trudie Styler. Beta Cinema is set to launch international sales for the project at the American Film Market, which begins on November 10, while CAA represents the domestic rights.
The extensive cast also features Bronson Pinchot, Nicolas Maury, Alyth Ross, Eliot Sumner, Lewis Fleming, Will Merrick, Barbara Marten, and Daniel Quincy Annoh. Set against the backdrop of a grand Scottish estate, the story follows a wedding party that proceeds despite the bride and groom being absent. After Felix abandons Victoria at the altar, their families and friends must navigate an extravagant reception that quickly spirals out of control. As guests attempt to maintain appearances, the festivities devolve into a series of disasters, comic mishaps, and unexpected connections.
The screenplay was written by Tom Stourton and Tom Palmer. Styler is producing the film alongside Celine Rattray, co-founder of Maven Screen Media, and Piers Tempest of Tempo Productions. Peter Chiarelli and Fred Fernandez-Armesto serve as executive producers. Styler expressed enthusiasm for the project, noting that assembling actors with such distinctive presence and comic instinct is a director's dream. She praised the writers for crafting a wickedly funny story about unraveling plans and highlighted the ensemble's ability to embrace the chaos and humanity of the narrative.
'The Reception' marks Styler's fourth feature-length directing project. Her previous work includes 'Up Against It', which premiered at the Toronto festival this fall, as well as 'Freak Show' and the documentary 'Posso Entrare? An Ode to Naples'.
Sources: Variety.