Newcomer Jonny Weston is in negotiations for the starring role in the surf film Mavericks where he’d be joining Gerard Butler in the project set up at Walden Media. Deadline broke the news that Weston could be playing surfer Jay Moriarity, if his deal goes through. The real Moriarity died in a diving accident at the age of 22.
Curtis Hanson (8 Mile, In Her Shoes) is directing the film from a script by Brandon Hooper.
The Plot:
“Mavericks is a true story based on Santa Cruz surf phenom Jay Moriarity and his quest to ride the mythic Northern California break known as Mavericks where winter swells bring in treacherous waves the size of five story buildings. Moriarity trained for more than a year under the tutelage of mentor Rick ‘Frosty’ Hesson, and in the process the two forged a unique relationship, ultimately transforming both of their lives. Jay’s story remains an inspiration to surfers and non-surfers around the globe, who’ve coined the phrase, ‘Live like Jay.’”
Gerard Butler will be playing Jay’s mentor, Frosty Hesson. Mavericks is expected to begin this October.
Weston’s currently at work on the indie drama Cherry with James Franco, Dev Patel and Heather Graham.
