Cloud9 Studios is launching international sales for The Old Man in the Dunes: Starring Aaron Eckhart

Cloud9 Studios has announced that The Old Man in the Dunes, an award-winning short film, is now being shot as a feature-length thriller starring Aaron Eckhart. The project—written and directed by Christian Guiton and produced by Noli Molla and Mark Holder (Wonder Street), alongside Jacques Abrahamian—is set to begin production in the third quarter of 2025.    

Executive Producer and global sales executive Pia Patatian is handling international presales to the film at the Marche du Film through her newly launched production, sales, and financing company, Cloud9 Studios. US distribution of the film will be handled by Angel Studios.

The Old Man in the Dunes began as a captivating 20-minute short film and proof-of-concept, shot amidst the serene landscapes of Oceano, CA. The project was submitted to the Angel Guild as a torch, and it resonated deeply with its powerful storytelling, blending narrative depth with visual storytelling.

“The Old Man in the Dunes has been part of my family's story for nearly a century, and it’s a dream come true to finally bring it to life,” shares Guiton. “With Aaron Eckhart leading the cast, a raw and emotional approach to the storytelling, and the incredible support of Angel, we're excited to create something both gritty and hopeful. I’m beyond grateful for the team that's making this dream a reality.”

The film is Christian Guiton’s feature debut and follows an enigmatic old man living alone in coastal dunes, accused of a tragic crime. A principled public defender arrives, determined to unearth the truth. The story explores themes of guilt, justice, and the quiet power of redemption.

The Old Man in the Dunes is a captivating thriller that explores the relentless quest for truth, the weight of guilt, and the freedom of repentance. The film shares the compelling story of an enigmatic old man living in the dunes who is unjustly accused of taking the life of a local young person.  He is met by a steadfast public defender who is determined to unearth the truth. The story delves deep into the human soul, underscoring the consequences of concealing the truth and the redemption that can be found in repentance.

Alongside writer Christian Guiton, Christine Serkis played a pivotal role in shaping the narrative—her insight and creative vision were essential in evolving the project from a compelling short into a fully realized feature film.

Eckhart, widely acclaimed for his powerful and transformative performances, has built an extraordinary career spanning a wide breadth of films such as Thank You For Smoking, Sully, and Christopher Nolan’s The Dark Knight.  His ability to bring depth and authenticity to complex characters has made him one of the most respected actors of his generation.  Eckhart has already shown remarkable passion and commitment to The Old Man in the Dunes, deeply engaging with the role and the story even before production begins. His involvement elevates the projects and underscores its emotional and cinematic potential.

“Eckhart brings both intensity and profound humanity to the role, making him the perfect anchor for this story,” said producer Noli Molla. 

“The Old Man in the Dunes is a moving and inspirational thriller, led by Aaron Eckhart. We are delighted to be partnering with Angel Studio on this new film - It’s a beautiful, frank, and intense thriller and we cannot wait to introduce this fantastic project to buyers in Cannes,” added Cloud9 Studios President Pia Patatian. 

Filming begins Q3 2025, with additional casting and production details to be announced soon. The film is slated for a 2026 release.  

Eckhart is represented by CAA and Hirsch Wallerstein Hayum Matlof and Fishman.

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 About Cloud9 Studios: Cloud9 Studios’ slate also includes Barry Levinson’s thriller Assassination starring Academy Award-winners Jessica Chastain, Brendan Fraser, and Al Pacino, and six-time Emmy-winner Bryan Cranston; the romantic comedy Under the Stars starring Toni Collette and Andy Garcia, which Patatian produced; and the supernatural horror thriller Unmerciful Good Fortune starring Rosario Dawson.

About Wonder Street: Wonder Street is currently in production on the Mark Wahlberg film By Any Means, and in pre-production on Naomi Watts’ The Housewife. The company’s credits include The Mauritanian (Golden Globe winner for Jodie Foster), Beasts of No Nation starring Idris Elba, Self Made starring Octavia Spencer for Netflix, and Netflix’s ongoing series “Bandidos.”

About Angel: Angel is a values-based distribution company for stories that amplify light to global mainstream audiences. Through the Angel Guild, over 1,100,000 paying members from more than 170 different countries help decide what film and television projects the studio will market and distribute. Learn more at Angel.com.