Hot Cannes Package: Chris Pratt & McG Turn Jocko Willink Novel ‘Way Of The Warrior Kid’ Into Film

With the competition slates unveiled, attention now turns to the star-studded offerings set to grace the Cannes Market. Among the standout packages is an inspiring film project sure to captivate prospective buyers. "Way of The Warrior Kid" is gearing up for production this summer, boasting Chris Pratt in the lead role and McG at the helm, directing a screenplay by Will Staples based on the novel by Jocko Willink, a retired Navy SEAL turned podcast host, bestselling author, and motivational speaker.

UTA Independent Film Group and FilmNation will soon present the script to interested parties. Given the compelling backgrounds involved, anticipation for this project is running high. It's a story of youth empowerment, centered around a protagonist who isn't wielding magic or donning superhero attire. Instead, he's a self-doubting youngster facing bullying and struggling to complete even a single pullup. However, everything changes when his uncle Jake, an elite Navy SEAL, moves in for rehabilitation after being injured on a mission. Witnessing his nephew's academic, social, and physical challenges, Jake embarks on a new mission: to unleash the inner warrior within the 11-year-old through rigorous SEAL Team training over the course of three summer months.

Willink, having found success guiding adults, forged a friendship with Pratt, known for his roles in blockbuster franchises like "Guardians of the Galaxy," "Avengers," and "Jurassic World," following his transformation from the lovable character in "Parks and Recreation" to a chiseled leading man. Willink's decision to write a young adult book stemmed from his disappointment with the offerings available to read to his own children.

FilmNation will oversee international sales, while UTA Independent Film Group will handle distribution in North America.

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