James Scott
As public focus shifts back to one of America's most contentious legal cases, the production company kicks off a research effort #AnActOfGod #JamesScott #TrueCrime #FilmNews
Our responsibility as filmmakers is to pursue the story with honesty, integrity, and respect for the facts.”— Blake Babson
Third Coast Film has formally started development on An Act of God, a feature-length motion picture drawn from the life of James Scott, the Missouri man imprisoned for more than thirty years after being found guilty of purposefully bringing about a flood during the Great Flood of 1993, the company confirmed today.
The screenplay draws inspiration from journalist Adam Pitluk's acclaimed volume Damned to Eternity, and aims to examine one of the most peculiar criminal proceedings in U.S. history. Scott stands as the only person ever convicted in America for intentionally causing a flood—a case that continues to spark debate among journalists, legal analysts, and advocates regarding the trial evidence and the circumstances that led to his conviction.
This announcement coincides with renewed public interest in Scott's case, ahead of a scheduled court date on July 22.
Parallel to the film's development, Third Coast Film is launching a wide-ranging research initiative focused on the James Scott matter. Expanding on Pitluk's thorough reporting, the production team will continue examining historical records, speaking with individuals associated with the case, and reviewing additional materials as part of the screenplay creation process.
"Our responsibility as filmmakers is to pursue the story with honesty, integrity, and respect for the facts," said Blake Babson, Partner at Third Coast Film. "Whether audiences ultimately agree or disagree with the outcome of the case, we believe this is a remarkable American story that raises important questions about justice, media influence, and the lasting impact of public perception. Those are exactly the kinds of stories that deserve to be explored through film."
An Act of God is intended to be a feature-length dramatic thriller that delves into the human toll of one of the Midwest's most severe natural disasters, while examining the investigation, prosecution, and the long aftermath of James Scott's conviction.
The project is currently in development alongside several high-profile creative and producing collaborators, with further announcements anticipated later in the year.
"Our goal is not to relitigate a case in the court of public opinion," Brian Williams, CEO of Third Coast Film added. "It's to tell a compelling, deeply human story that encourages audiences to examine the facts, ask thoughtful questions, and engage in meaningful conversation."
Third Coast Film secured the motion picture rights to Pitluk's Damned to Eternity and has been quietly advancing the project as part of its lineup of commercially oriented films inspired by exceptional true stories.
Further details regarding creative attachments, production plans, and distribution strategy will be released as development moves forward.
ABOUT THIRD COAST FILM
Third Coast Film is an independent film and television production company headquartered in Brentwood, Tennessee. It focuses on developing, financing, producing, and distributing commercially driven feature films and TV projects. The company specializes in true stories and original content that blend engaging entertainment with meaningful themes for global audiences.
Media Contact:
Mack Hicks
Administrator, Third Coast Film
(805) 501-5028
www.thirdcoastfilm.com
Mack Hicks
Third Coast Film
+1 805-501-5028
admin@thirdcoastfilm.com
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