Glen Powell, Anthony Mackie, and Laura Dern will be featured in the drama film Monsanto, written and directed by John Lee Hancock. The film will be presented to buyers at Cannes by Rocket Science and CAA Media Finance next week. Powell, known for his roles in Anyone But You and an upcoming film by Richard Linklater, will portray Brent Wisner, an inexperienced attorney who agrees to represent Dewayne “Lee” Johnson (played by Mackie) in a case against Monsanto. Johnson, a former high school groundsman, developed cancer after using the company’s weed killer. Dr. Melinda Rogers (Dern), Monsanto’s chief toxicologist, testifies during the trial that the product is safe.
Based on a true story, the film focuses on Johnson’s legal battle with Monsanto after being diagnosed with cancer. The script was a collaboration with Karl Spoerri’s Zurich Avenue and was written by Michael Wisner, Alexandra Duparc, Ned Benson, and Hancock. Producers include Moritz Borman, Eric Kopeloff, Philip Schulz-Deyle, Jon Levin, Adam McKay, and Kevin Messick. International sales will be managed by Rocket Science, while CAA Media Finance will handle US rights.
Hancock, known for films like The Blind Side and Saving Mr. Banks, was drawn to the story of David vs. Goliath for its drama, humor, and relevance in today’s society. Mackie, recognized for his work in The Hurt Locker and The Banker, will also star in Captain America: Brave New World. Dern’s extensive filmography includes roles in Marriage Story, Little Women, and numerous other films and series.