Paramount Acquires ‘Captive’ with Kate Mara and David Oyelowo

Kate Mara and David Oyelowo Star in Captive
Kate Mara (Photos © Richard Chavez / Showbiz Junkies)

The film adaptation of Ashley Smith and Stacy Mattingly’s Unlikely Angel: The Untold Story of the Atlanta Hostage Hero has been picked up by Paramount Pictures for theatrical release. Captive, adapted by Brian Bird and directed by Jerry Jameson, tells the true story of hostage Ashley Smith and stars Kate Mara and David Oyelowo (Selma). The cast of the dramatic thriller also includes Michael K Williams, Mimi Rogers, Jessica Oyelowo and Leonor Varela.

Paramount is planning a September 18, 2015 release.

“I was drawn to this story because it beautifully illustrates how a broken spirit can be healed by an unexpected source of hope,” said Oyelowo. “I feel blessed to be continuing my very fruitful relationship with Paramount.”

“In March of 2005 Ashley’s story captivated the nation on news outlets everywhere. Her story is thrilling and redemptive as God intersected the lives of two very broken people in the most dramatic way. It has been amazing getting to know Ashley and to be working with such fine actors. I’m so pleased to also be partnering with Paramount to bring this authentic encounter to a worldwide audience,” added producer Terry Botwick.

The Plot: “The film tells the dramatic, thrilling and spiritual true story of Ashley Smith (Mara), a single mother and recovering drug addict who was taken hostage in her own apartment by fugitive, murderer and accused rapist Brian Nichols (Oyelowo). With her back against the wall, Smith turned to the personal spiritual journey of Rick Warren’s best-selling book The Purpose Driven Life in an attempt to survive and help Brian find a better way out.”