Lucy Hale, the former star of the teen drama "Pretty Little Liars," is set to take on a new role in the romantic drama "A Young Widow's Guide to Life." Directed by the up-and-coming Mackenzie Munro, this film marks a significant step in Hale's career, showcasing her versatility as an actress. The movie is set to begin production in September in Italy, with a focus on international sales and distribution.
The story centers around Tess Fuller, a 30-year-old widow who has been emotionally stuck for five years after the death of her husband. On the anniversary of his passing, a childhood friend publishes a letter from Luke, asking the town to help Tess create a list of things to try and move on with her life. As she reluctantly starts checking off the items, Tess begins to reconnect with life, love, and herself. She forms a connection with Marcus, a charming single father and professor, and must decide whether she is ready to open her heart again or if she needs more time to find herself.
This project is a commercial venture for Hale, who has previously starred in films like "F*** Marry Kill," which topped Hulu in 2025. Her versatility and range as an actress are evident in her roles in "Pretty Little Liars," "Truth or Dare," and "The Hating Game." Hale's involvement in this film is a testament to her ability to take on diverse and challenging roles.
Director Mackenzie Munro, who started her career in film production as a teenager, has directed projects for Facebook Watch, Crypt TV, and The Shade Room. Her feature debut, "Salvation," and recent films like "Stampede" and "Chasing Red" starring Madelaine Petsch and Gavin Casalegno, showcase her talent and vision. Munro's collaboration with Hale and the producers at Angel Oak Films is a promising development in the film industry.
The film's international sales and distribution are being handled by Pascal Borno and Alain Gillissen of Angel Oak Films, with a deal secured for German-speaking territories with Splendid Films. Borno expresses excitement about introducing the unique project to key buyers at Cannes, highlighting the involvement of established and dynamic stars like Hale and Munro. The combination of a compelling script and these talented individuals is indeed a winning formula.
"A Young Widow's Guide to Life" promises to be a thought-provoking and emotionally charged film, exploring themes of grief, self-discovery, and the complexities of love. With Hale's proven ability to deliver compelling performances and Munro's directorial prowess, this project is sure to leave a lasting impression on audiences worldwide.
