EXCLUSIVE: Vantage Media has acquired the distribution rights in North America for the golf comedy The Long Shot (previously known as The Salamander King), targeting a 2026 release.
Cast comprises Ryan Hansen, Adrianne Palicki, Justin Chatwin, Dulcè Sloan and former college and NFL star Reggie Bush in his feature acting debut.
Set in Austin, Texas, the film follows Ray Mueller, “a lovable slacker who lives and works at the city’s historic municipal golf course — aka Muny — whose world is turned upside down when a no-nonsense consultant arrives to decide whether the course deserves to survive. As Ray and his band of misfit staff scramble to prove Muny’s value, they find themselves up against greedy tech bros, unscrupulous city officials, and the relentless pressures of Austin’s high cost of living”.
The movie, which debuted at the Dallas International Film Festival in April, was penned by Drew Mackintosh and directed by Austin Nichols. Producers are Jennifer Kuczaj of Pong Jane Productions and Christian Sosa and Jon Wroblewski of Roosevelt Film Lab.
The deal was brokered by Jessica Russo, COO, Productions and Acquisitions for Vantage Media and Christian Sosa and Jon Wroblewski of Roosevelt Film Lab on behalf of the filmmakers.
“I grew up playing golf on municipal courses with people from all walks of life – hippies, artists, cowboys – and always thought it would be a great setting for a comedy,” said director Austin Nichols. “Our movie celebrates the unique characters that inhabit these courses, people who don’t take their golf, or themselves, too seriously.”
Nichols continued: “We are thrilled to have Vantage Media as our distribution partner. Not only do they have the reach and expertise to bring The Long Shot to a wide audience, they also had a genuine enthusiasm for the story we tried to tell. We look forward to working with them on the roll out of our movie.”
Jessica Russo, COO Productions + Acquisitions for Vantage Media, added: “This film is a wild ride set in the heart of Austin, Texas. With Adrianne Palicki and Ryan Hansen bringing their sharp comedic timing and undeniable charm, audiences can expect outrageous laughs, a ton of heart, and a story that reminds us you don’t have to play by the rules to find your swing. Austin Nichols had a clear message in creating this hysterical but sweet love letter, and we can’t wait to bring it to American audiences.”
Former USC star running back Bush also appeared this year in golf comedy Happy Gilmore 2 with Adam Sandler.
The post Golf Comedy ‘The Long Shot’, With Ryan Hansen, Adrianne Palicki & Reggie Bush In Movie Debut, Gets North American Deal appeared first on Deadline.
