Netflix has won a competitive bidding war for “Somewhere Out There,” a sci-fi spec script by Max Taxe, with Shawn Levy attached to direct. Levy will also produce through his 21 Laps banner (via THR).
Described as “emotional sci-fi,” the story centers on a grieving father who, after losing his wife, sends a message into space—only to have something answer back. The project is being compared tonally to “Arrival” (good) and Levy’s own “The Adam Project” (bad), and already has notable actors reportedly circling the lead role.
The deal comes as Levy continues a highly succesful run in Hollywood, having recently wrapped “Star Wars: Starfighter” starring Ryan Gosling and following the massive success of “Deadpool & Wolverine,” which became the highest-grossing R-rated film ever with $1.3 billion in ticket receipts.
In fact, Hollywood seems to love Levy, who gives studios what they want: hits. His filmography includes “Cheaper by the Dozen,” “Night at the Museum,” “Date Night,” “Real Steel,” and “Free Guy.” Has he ever made a good movie? Debatable.