Relativity Media has acquired the chilling thriller The Man in the White Van for a wide theatrical release this Fall. The film, from Garrison Film and the fan-owned entertainment company Legion M, is based on a series of true crimes from the 1970s.
The story centers on Annie Williams (Madison Wolfe), a young girl whose life takes a dark turn when a mysterious figure in a white van stalks her. Her parents disbelieve her claims, leading to a terrifying Halloween encounter that forces them to confront the truth.
The film boasts an impressive cast, including Sean Astin (The Lord of the Rings trilogy, “Stranger Things”), Ali Larter (ABC’s The Rookie, Final Destination), Madison Wolfe (The Conjuring 2), and Brec Bassinger (CW’s “Stargirl”). Gavin Warren (Night Swim) and Skai Jackson (Jessie) round out the cast.
The Man in the White Van is described as a “gripping exploration of terror, paranoia, and the fragility of security.” It delves into the unsettling reality of a young girl facing a real monster.
The True Story of a Monster:
The film is based on the crimes of serial killer, rapist, and pedophile Billy Mansfield Jr., who preyed on women and girls in Florida from 1975 to 1980. Mansfield was convicted of five murders, with his youngest victim being just 13. One of his victims was discovered in a drainage ditch, which led to his arrest. Police then found four bodies buried on his property, thanks to a tip from an informant who was sharing a cell with the killer, who liked to brag. He had a long history of cruelty. Mansfield had previously served time for raping a young babysitter. Mansfield escaped prison in 1981 but was quickly caught and left to live out his four life sentences. He is currently a suspect in another murder.
Director Warren Skeels assures the story is handled with respect for the victims, some of who have not been identified. The Man in the White Van arrives in theaters on October 11th. Prepare to be on the edge of your seat!
