AFM 2011: Mike Figgis to Direct Matt Dillon, Julia Stiles in 'Seconds of Pleasure'

Mike Figgis will direct the ensemble drama Seconds of Pleasure, which Neil LaBute has adapted for the screen from his book of short stories that was published under the same title in 2004.

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Myriad Pictures has acquired worldwide rights outside the U.K. for the film, which is set to star Matt Dillon, Julia Stiles, Brendan Fraser, Kristin Scott Thomas and Christina Hendrix. The film will weave together several separate but intertwined stories about six different couples.

Seconds was developed and will by produced by Scotland broadcaster STV. It is being produced by STV Productions head of drama Margaret Enefer, Bill Shapter and LaBute.

“We’re delighted to be working with Myriad on this fantastic film," Enefer said. "Neil has written an incredibly candid, blazingly witty script. We know Mike Figgis will make it shine in the most sensitive and imaginative way possible. It’s a thrill to have them working together with this amazing cast."

Added Myriad Pictures CEO Kirk D’Amico: “We immediately responded to Neil's script, which is razor-sharp, so insightful and honest, about the real challenges and temptations people face every day. Mike Figgis is the perfect director to bring this script to life, especially with this extraordinary cast."

Figgis, who is repped by WME and London’s Cruickshank Cazanove, received two Academy Award nominations for writing and directing 1995’s Leaving Las Vegas. During the past few years, he’s busied himself with short films and documentaries.