As reported byDeadline,Wonderwell,Carrie Fisher’sfinal film before her passing, is finally getting released following a “perilous” seven-year journey. Fisher passed away back in late 2016, just weeks after finishing filming for the fantasy movie. In addition to the lateStars Warsicon,Wonderwellalso features Rita Ora, Nell Tiger Free, Sebastian Croft, and Kiera Milward.
The outlet notes that Vertical has purchased North American and UK/Ire rights toWonderwell, a coming-of-age family film. Vlad Marsavin’s directorial debut is expected to get a limited theatrical run in the US (courtesy of AMC), followed by a digital release starting July 27, 2025.
While speaking about the long-delayed release, Marsavin stated, “The journey we have taken as filmmakers with this movie, has been as perilous as that of the movie itself. From filming to screen it has taken us seven years. The visual effects on a movie of this magnitude takes time, but we were challenged with Covid lockdowns and of course the passing of our wonderful Carrie Fisher. Now is the perfect time to share her magical on screen moments as Hazel.”
Marsavin stated that the movie’s delay was the result of visual effect issues that occurred after filming forWonderwellwrapped up.
The director told the outlet thatWonderwellwill include a dedication to Fisher, noting that her passing was a “huge shock” to him and the rest of the team.
Fisher died four days after having a medical emergency during a flight from London to Los Angeles.
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Marsavin said, “Carrie was full of energy during filming and even celebrated her 60th birthday with us in Italy where we shot the movie. After a night shoot, which went on until 2am, she invited the whole team to celebrate with her and the party ended up being shut down by the police because it was deemed a little too loud. Her passing was very emotional for the whole team.”
Prior to her passing,Fisher finished filming forStar Wars: Episode VIII - The Last Jedi. Fisher’s unused footage fromThe Force Awakenswas used byThe Rise of SkywalkerVFX team to bring the actor back forEpisode IX.
Fisher’s costar Ora said, “Working alongside Carrie Fisher was one of those experiences that you never forget. I can’t wait for the world to see this intriguing and magical world ofWonderwell.”
Wonderwellis set between present-day Italy and a fantasy realm and follows Violet (played by Milward), a girl living in Italy with her parents and older sister Savannah (played by Tiger Free). After wandering into a forest, Violet encounters Hazel (played by Fisher), who leads her to a mysterious portal.
The film is produced by Fred Roos, Alexander Roos, Vlad Marsavin, Orian Williams, Lee Rudnicki, and Robert Bernacchi.
Previously Rudnicki blogged that viewing Fisher’s “heartbreaking” final scene left him in tears.
Tony Piantedosi, Vertical’s SVP of Acquisitions, calledWonderwell"A whimsical story with enthralling imagery, the film truly transports the viewer to another realm. Newcomer Kiera Milward holds her own with legends Carrie and Rita who are captivating in their roles. It is a film that will appeal to consumers of all ages."
Deadline noted that the deal to acquireWonderwellwas negotiated by Piantedosi, Marsavin, executive producer William Sharp (the main financier of the project), and Sebastian Twardosz of Savant Artists.
