Saban Films announced today that they have acquired U.S. rights to Josh Duhamel’s writing and directing debut Buddy Games.  The comedy boasts an all-star ensemble cast including Duhamel (Transformers franchise, Love, Simon), Olivia Munn (Ocean’s Eight, X-Men: Apocalypse), Dax Shepard (CHIPS, Without a Paddle), Kevin Dillon (“Entourage,” Poseidon), James Roday (“Psych,” “A Million Little Things”), Nick Swardson (Sandy Wexler, Jack and Jill) and Dan Bakkedahl (“Veep,” “Life in Pieces”).  Michael J. Luisi (Fighting with My Family, The Call) produced alongside Duhamel and Jude Weng.

A group of friends reunite to play the Buddy Games, a wild assortment of absurd physical and mental challenges. In the process, they’ll heal old wounds, right past wrongs and figure out the true meaning of friendship…or die trying.

“Josh Duhamel has created a laugh-out-loud comedy,” commented Saban Films’ Bill Bromiley.  “We are thrilled to be collaborating with him on his directorial debut, which is a fresh and daring achievement.”

“I set out to make a movie that I would want to see – something grounded but outrageous enough to shock audiences, and ultimately a story of friendship and camaraderie,” said Josh Duhamel. “I’m grateful to Saban Films for giving us the perfect platform for audiences to see it.”

Bill Bromiley and Jonathan Saba negotiated the deal for Saban Films along with attorney Matt Saver on behalf of the filmmakers. Buddy Games will be released by Saban Films, with plans to be announced at a later date.