Toronto: Liev Schreiber’s Boxer Biopic ‘The Bleeder’ Nabbed by IFC Films

Liev Schreiber’s The Bleeder has been picked up by IFC Films.

The biopic of New Jersey boxer Chuck Wepner, who was the inspiration for Rocky, was directed by Philippe Falardeau. The movie centers on Wepner’s life inside the ring, fighting legends like Muhammad Ali, and outside the ring with his second and third wives, played by Elisabeth Moss and Naomi Watts.

IFC Films acquired U.S. rights to The Bleeder, which is set to hit theaters in spring. Showtime, home to Schreiber’s Ray Donovan, will be the pay TV outlet for the drama. 

Schreiber produced the film, along with Christa Campbell, Lati Grobman, Carl Hampe and Michael Tollin. Avi Lerner, Mark Gill, John Thompson, Boaz Davidson and Jeff Rice executive produced.

The Bleeder made its world premiere at the Venice Film Festival and its North American premiere in the Special Presentations section of the Toronto International Film Festival. 

UTA repped the film.