LOS ANGELES, CALIFORNIA – Searchlight Pictures has decided to drop the film “Magazine Dreams” starring Jonathan Majors and return its rights to the filmmakers, according to IndieWire. The movie was acquired by Searchlight at last year’s Sundance Film Festival and was originally scheduled for release during awards season. However, it was removed from the release calendar after Majors’ arrest in March on charges of assault and harassment. Majors, known for his role in “Creed III,” was found guilty last month and subsequently fired from his role in the Marvel Cinematic Universe. At the time, it seemed unlikely that “Magazine Dreams” would ever be released, but the filmmakers now have the opportunity to find another interested buyer.
The film, directed and written by Elijah Bynum, follows Majors as a socially awkward amateur bodybuilder with dreams of success in professional weightlifting. It has been described as a character study with violent elements, drawing comparisons to the classic film “Taxi Driver.” Majors’ performance in the movie was initially considered a potential contender for the Oscars. The producers on the project include Jennifer Fox, Dan Gilroy, Jeffrey Soros, and Simon Horsman.
In an interview with ABC News, Majors expressed his shock at the guilty verdict and maintained his innocence, stating that he did not cause the injuries to his ex-girlfriend. The actor is scheduled to be sentenced on February 6 and could face up to a year in jail.
In addition to being dropped from “Magazine Dreams,” Majors was also removed from the film “48 Hours in Vegas,” where he was set to portray Dennis Rodman. The project, originally intended to be produced by Lionsgate, is now seeking a new lead actor and a new studio.
Searchlight Pictures has not provided any comment regarding their decision to drop the film. The future of “Magazine Dreams” remains uncertain as the filmmakers will now search for a new distributor.