The true-life story of The West Memphis 3 is as tragic as it is shocking. The subject of two HBO award-winning and edge-of-your seat documentaries (PARADISE LOST: CHILD MURDERS AT ROBIN HOOD HILLS and PARADISE LOST 2: REVELATIONS) by Bruce Sinofsky and Joe Berlinger. There will also be third, PARADISE LOST 3: PURGATORY, along with a Peter Jackson-produced documentary WEST OF MEMPHIS, both released later this year.
The story of three teenagers, Damien Echols, Jesse Miskelly and Jason Baldwin, who were convicted of the savage and satanic murder of three young boys in Arkansas in 1993. This despite no physical evidence that they were ever there. After almost twenty years the three are now free – but not innocent. Late last year, it was confirmed filmmaker Peter Jackson had been involved in paying for a new private investigation into the case while the three were still in prison. The investigation unearthed new evidence and subsequently led to their freedom.
A big-screen feature is currently in production with CHLOE director Atom Egoyan slated to direct the controversial events. The cast is also coming together with Reese Witherspoon, Colin Firth and Mireille Enos (THE KILLING) already confirmed. Now you can add Alessandro Nivola (FACE/OFF), Kris Polaha (MAD MEN), Collette Wolfe (YOUNG ADULT) and newcomer Justin Castor (GLEE), who will be the first of the three teenagers (Jesse Miskelly) to be cast. IN TIME actor Kristopher Higgins is also in talks for a currently unknown role.
The film will no doubt be a powerful and fascinating account of the horrific circumstances, and will be based on the novel by Mara Leveritt. Their long incarceration even got a huge number of celebrities, musicians and film personalities involved in attempt to raise awareness for their unjust treatment.
Source: Deadline
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