Film based on Stonewall riots given official release date
The upcoming movie based on the infamous 1969 riots in New York City has been given a release date.
Stonewall, which will tell the story of the birth of the modern gay rights movement, is scheduled for release on September 25 in the US.
The drama will focus on the story of homeless Danny Winters – a fictional character caught up in the riots – who experiences a political awakening after making his way to New York and being introduced to the infamous Stonewall Inn – where “with the toss of a single brick, a riot ensues and a crusade for equality is born.”
The director of Independence Day Roland Emmerich announced last year that he was shooting the film, which will see War Horse star Jeremy Irvine play Danny and Jonathan Rhys Meyers, Ron Perlman and Jonny Beauchamp also starring.
The film’s release date was confirmed after the US distribution rights were acquired by Roadside Attractions. Goldcrest Films have the international rights for the film.
The Stonewall riots – against a police crackdown on the LGBT community – are often regarded as the birthplace of the modern gay rights movement, giving their name to the UK-based charity Stonewall.
Howard Cohen of Roadside Attractions said: “Roland Emmerich’s Stonewall is an explosive, dramatic story set against one of the monumental events of the twentieth century, The Stonewall Riots.
“Roadside is so proud to bring this stirring film to audiences.”
Mr Emmerich added: “I was always interested and passionate about telling this important story, but I feel it has never been more timely than right now.”
“I am excited to work with Howard, Eric and the team at Roadside to get this film to audiences across the country. They have a unique approach to handling movies like Stonewall.”
Last month, the Stonewall Inn was given special protected status by New York City’s Landmarks Preservation Commission.
