Tom Shadyac's Documentary 'I Am' Goes to Universal International

Universal Pictures International Entertainment has acquired all foreign rights to Tom Shadyac's life-affirming documentary I Am from Mimi Steinbauer's Radiant Film International.

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Shadyac pursued the film following a serious bicycle accident that left the director questioning his Hollywood lifestyle and interested in asking the questions: What's wrong with our world, and what can we do to make it better?

I Am had a limited theatrical release in North America last year, grossing roughly $1.5 million.

"I Am is a film that resonates beautifully with audiences looking for a smart and entertaining look at life themes that affect all of us," Steinbauer said in announcing the deal with Universal.

In the film, Shadyac interviews scientists, religious leaders, philosophers and environmentalists, including Noam Chomsky, Desmond Tutu, Lynne McTaggart and Thom Hartmann.

Universal Pictures International Entertainment president Eddie Cunningham said I Am is a welcome addition to the unit's documentary collection.

Shadyac's directing credits include Ace Ventura: Pet Detective, The Nutty Professor, Liar Liar and Bruce Almighty.