Alcon Entertainment's ``The Affair of the Necklace,'' Starring Oscar Winner Hilary Swank, Starts Production; Warner Bros. Pictures Distributes.

Entertainment Editors

BURBANK, Calif.--(BUSINESS WIRE)--July 6, 2000

Alcon Entertainment's "The Affair of the Necklace," starring Academy Award-winner Hilary Swank ("Boys Don't Cry"), started production on July 3 in Prague, Czech Republic, it was announced today by Andrew Kosove and Broderick Johnson, co-presidents of Alcon Entertainment.

Set in 1773, "The Affair of the Necklace" centers around Jeanne De La Motte Valois, a woman whose royal title was taken from her when she was a child. Years later, she fights to restore her family name and her efforts involve intrigue, romance and murder, all revolving around a necklace made for Marie Antoinette.

The film is based on a controversial true story of the real 18th century French countess. The film also stars Simon Baker ("Red Planet," "L.A. Confidential"), Adrien Brody ("Summer of Sam," "The Thin Red Line"), Jonathan Pryce ("Tomorrow Never Dies," "Ronin") and Christopher Walken ("Sleepy Hollow," "Suicide Kings").

"The Affair of the Necklace" will shoot on location in Prague and Paris, and is targeted for a fall 2001 release.

Directed by Charles Shyer ("Father of the Bride" 1 and 2) from a screenplay by John Sweet, "The Affair of the Necklace" is produced by Andrew Kosove and Broderick Johnson ("My Dog Skip") of Alcon Entertainment, Charles Shyer and Redmond Morris. Nancy Meyers is the executive producer, with Kira Davis serving as co-producer.

The distinguished behind-the-scenes team is led by director of photography Ashley Rowe ("The Governess," "B Monkey"), production designer Alex McDowell ("Fight Club," "The Matrix") and Oscar-winning costume designer Milena Canonero (nominated for "Titus" and "Dick Tracy," won for "Chariots of Fire"). David Newman ("Bowfinger, Anastasia") is the composer.

The film will be distributed by Warner Bros. Pictures.