Saban Films announced today that they have acquired U.S. rights to André Øvredal’s Mortal starring Nat Wolff (Death Note), Iben Akerlie (Victoria), Priyanka Bose (Lion) and Per Frisch (Farewell Illusions).  Written by Øvredal (Trollhunter) and Norman Lesperance (Door to the Other Side), the fantasy adventure is produced by John Einar Hagen, Ben Pugh and Brian Kavanaugh-Jones for Nordisk Film Production, 42 and Automatik. The film is backed by Nordisk Film, Zefyr and Umedia.

Mortal follows Eric (Wolff), an American backpacker in the wilderness of western Norway, who gets arrested after accidentally killing a teenager, and manages to flee with the young psychologist he met during his detention. While on the run, with both Norwegian and American authorities tracking him down, Eric finally discovers he has godlike powers based on ancient Norwegian mythology.

“We love André’s work, from Scary Stories to Tell in the Dark, to Troll Hunter and The Autopsy of Jane Doe,” said Saban Films’ Bill Bromiley. “This is a coming-of-age origins story but also a genre mashup with Wolff rising as a legend with God-like powers.  Our audiences will love this.”

Bill Bromiley and Ness Saban negotiated the deal for Saban Films along with Endeavor Content on behalf of filmmakers.  TrustNordisk is handling international rights.