The newly launched Saban Films has acquired the North American distribution rights to Tommy Lee Jones’ upcoming drama, ‘The Homesman.’ Haim Saban confirmed the news of the distribution from Cannes. The acquisition and distribution company is planning on theatrically release the western this year.

Haim Saban, who established Saban Films, confirmed the news of the company’s acquisition of ‘The Homesman,’ after it premiered on Sunday in competition in Cannes. The acquisition was part of Saban Film’s aggressive acquisitions strategy at the festival, and the company targeted the highly-regarded competition title. The western is the first acquisition for the distribution company.

Besides Jones, ‘The Homesman’ also stars Hilary Swank, Grace Gummer, Miranda Otto, Sonja Richter, Hailee Steinfeld, James Spader and Meryl Streep. n addition to starring in the film, Jones also directed the drama and co-wrote the screenplay with Kieran Fitzgerald and Wesley A. Oliver. The script was based on Glendon Swarthout’s novel.

Of his company’s acquisition of ‘The Homesman,’ Saban said: “We are honored to have such a prestigious and beautifully crafted film as the first project to launch Saban Films.”

Jones added that he’s “delighted that Saban Films has chosen ‘The Homesman’ to begin their venture into film release. Our company has full confidence in Saban Films and I sincerely hope we will serve them well.”

Written by: Karen Benardello