Apple Secures Rights to ‘Fallen Astronaut’ in High-Six-Figure Deal
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Apple Original Films has preemptively acquired the manuscript for “Fallen Astronaut” by J S Mayank and David Carlyle, signaling a major move for the tech giant’s expanding film division. The acquisition, finalized after a swift publishing auction overseen by Verve, underscores Apple’s commitment to high-concept, commercially viable projects.
The manuscript began circulating among publishers just last week, quickly attracting significant interest. According to sources familiar with the deal, Apple paid in the high six figures to secure the rights, demonstrating the perceived value of the project.
A Sci-Fi Thriller with a Technological Edge
The film is being positioned as a blend of “Gravity” and “A Few Good Men,” suggesting a suspenseful, character-driven story set against a backdrop of technological innovation. The manuscript reportedly features a crucial sequence utilizing virtual reality (VR), a concept that aligns with Apple’s own technological advancements and strategic interests. This tech-forward approach makes “Fallen Astronaut” a particularly attractive project for the company.
The Creative Team Behind the Project
Scott Glassgold and his production company, 1201 Films, are set to produce the film for Apple. Mayank and Carlyle will serve as Executive Producers. This collaboration marks another significant project for Glassgold, who is rapidly establishing himself as a key player in the industry.
Mayank brings a strong television background to the project, having sold original pilots to ABC, CBS, and Syfy, and contributed to Netflix’s “The Fame Game.” Carlyle is currently finalizing his feature film, “The Conundrum.” Together, Mayank and Carlyle previously collaborated as the directors, writers, and showrunners of the six-part scripted audio series “America 2.0” for Realm.
1201 Films’ Expanding Slate
The acquisition of “Fallen Astronaut” is just one of several high-profile projects currently being developed by 1201 Films. The company’s 2025 slate includes:
- “Ripped” at 20th Century Studios with Dwayne “The Rock” Johnson
- “After Shock” at Lionsgate with Brandon Sklenar
- “Drift” at Paramount / Skydance with Andy Muschietti
- “Code Black” at Amazon with Jake Gyllenhaal
- “Fake Wedding” at Amazon with Lily Reinhart
- “The Earthling” at Sony with Zach Lipovsky & Adam Stein
- “Crush” at 20th, based on a script by John Fischer
Glassgold’s upcoming production also includes “My Wife and I Bought a Ranch” at Amazon, based on the acclaimed short story and novel by Harrison & Matt Query. He assembled this impressive slate with the support of representatives at Verve Talent Agency.
All parties – Mayank, Carlyle, and Glassgold – are represented by Verve, with Glassgold also represented by Jeff Frankel.
Apple declined to comment on the specifics of the deal. The acquisition of “Fallen Astronaut” further solidifies Apple’s position as a major player in the original film market, and signals a continued investment in compelling, innovative storytelling.
