Manasvi Mamgai, alongside 32RED Entertainment, has officially announced the launch of their latest thriller, Captivated, at the Cannes Market. The film, starring Katie Holmes, Toby Kebbell, and Oscar-winner Al Pacino, delves into the infamous 1973 kidnapping of Jean Paul Getty III, presenting a new perspective on the historic event.
Captivated is directed by Dito Montiel, who co-wrote the script with Robin Shushan and Michael Mammoliti. The film focuses on the Calabrian mafia boss Saro, portrayed by Toby Kebbell, and in present day by Al Pacino. It explores the complex dynamics that arise when Saro falls in love with his victim’s mother, played by Katie Holmes, during the intense ransom negotiations.
The project is particularly close to Mammoliti, who is the nephew of one of the primary kidnappers. Having long been engaged with the narrative surrounding the kidnapping, Mammoliti aims to bring a fresh and unheard perspective to the story through Captivated.
Manasvi Mamgai, a key figure in bringing this project to fruition, expressed her enthusiasm, “Bringing Captivated to life has been a deeply personal and passionate journey. We are committed to portraying the untold layers of this historic event, shedding light on the emotional complexities and unheard voices. This film will resonate with audiences by offering a fresh and compelling perspective.”
Manasvi Mamgai, along with producers Michael Benaroya, Michael Mammoliti, and Andrea Bucko, are dedicated to ensuring the film’s authenticity and emotional depth.
Principal photography for Captivated is set to commence in Italy later this winter. International Film Trust (IFT) is managing worldwide sales and presented the film at the Marché du Film in Cannes this week. The project is financed by IFT, 32RED Entertainment, and Sugar Rush Pictures.
“Captivated has all the ingredients of a great film, a fantastic script, stellar cast, and visionary director, Benaroya Pictures CEO and IFT Founder Michael Benaroya said, “we couldn’t be more excited to have it on our slate.”
Mammoliti added: “Our goal is to give a voice to a person who’s had none for 50+ years, and tell a side of this story no one knows.”