Independent Film Company today announced that they have acquired U.S. rights to the comedy biopic The Stunt Driver. Written and directed by Michael Dowse (Goon, What If), the film stars Jay Baruchel (Blackberry, Goon), Laurence Leboeuf (Shoresy, Transplant), Dan Bakkedahl (Veep, Life in Pieces), Ben Foster (Christy, Hell or High Water) and Ed Helms (The Office, The Hangover).
The film will have its world premiere at the 2026 Toronto International Film Festival, followed by a theatrical release on September 25. The synopsis reads, “Set in the mid-seventies, The Stunt Driver recounts the true underdog story of Canada’s Ken Carter (Jay Baruchel), the world champion stunt driver who battles personal demons and public doubt to attempt what everyone considers impossible – a mile-long jump across the St. Lawrence river in a rocket car.”
“What captivated me wasn’t simply the spectacle of Ken Carter’s legendary jump, but the humanity behind it. He was a dreamer who refused to let the world define what was possible. I wanted to make a film that celebrates that spirit – the optimism, resilience, and relentless pursuit of an impossible dream. At its heart, The Stunt Driver is about the people who dare to risk everything,” said writer-director Michael Dowse.
“We’re thrilled to collaborate with Michael Dowse to bring the incredible true story of stunt driver Ken Carter to the big screen,” said Ayo Kepher Maat, Vice President of Acquisitions and Productions at Independent Film Company. “Jay Baruchel delivers an unforgettable performance, joined by a remarkable cast including Ed Helms and Ben Foster. We can’t wait to share this wildly entertaining and richly human film with US audiences this fall.”
The film is produced by Jennifer Wilson and Michael Dowse for Film Cardinal and executive produced by Baruchel, Joe Iacono, Dave Bishop and James Pugh for Protagonist Pictures, Lisa Wolofsky, Andrew Frank for Mongrel Media, and Cameron MacLaren. Ayo Kepher Maat negotiated the deal on behalf of Independent Film Company with UTA on behalf of the filmmakers.
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