‘Love Hurts,’ ‘Violent Night’ Producer Guy Danella Named President of Film at XYZ

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Guy Danella has been appointed as the fresh president for theatrically-focused operations and acquisitions at XYZ Films, a label recognized for its expertise in genre films.

Danella’s list of credits features the action film “Love Hurts,” directed by Ke Huy Quan, and “Violent Night,” directed by Tommy Wirkola, with David Harbour in the lead role – both are Universal Pictures releases. Kicking off their upcoming slate is “The Trip,” an adaptation of Wirkola’s 2021 Norwegian thriller “Onde Dager,” which was financed by XYZ.

The movie centers around a troubled pair who journey to an isolated cabin with the intent of saving their ailing relationship. However, each harbors a hidden intention to end the other’s life. Before they can act on these plans, unforeseen guests show up, increasing their peril. Jorma Taccone is helming the reboot, featuring Juliette Lewis, Timothy Olyphant, Jason Segel, and Samara Weaving. The film is now in the post-production stage.

Danella stated, ‘For more than a decade now, XYZ has been trailblazing in every genre, inspiring filmmakers worldwide and creating some of my all-time favorite movies. I’m thrilled to help take the XYZ brand even further, solidifying it as a premier platform where talented directors can produce their finest work.’

Speaking highly of Danella, XYZ Films referred to her as “a friend and associate whom I’ve worked with for more than ten years.” They expressed that Danella’s exceptional understanding of the genre world, combined with her discerning eye for talent, makes her an ideal candidate to enhance their lineup of productions even further.

Danella held a partnership role at Studio 8, which belonged to Jeff Robinov, and contributed to projects such as Robert Egger’s “Nosferatu” and Robert Rodriguez’s “Hypnotic”. Prior to this, she served as SVP of Production at Genre Films, owned by Simon Kinberg, where she was instrumental in several Marvel productions like “X-Men: Dark Phoenix” and “New Mutants”. Additionally, she occupied the role of Executive Vice President of production for Gold Circle Entertainment, a company renowned for the “Pitch Perfect” series.

On April 25, Netflix debuted the action-packed thriller “Havoc,” directed by Gareth Evans and featuring Tom Hardy and Forrest Whitaker. In the pipeline for XYZ is “Hallow Road,” a suspenseful film helmed by Babak Anvari and starring Rosamund Pike and Matthew Rhys; “The Ritual,” an exorcism-themed thriller with Al Pacino and Dan Stevens; and Miley Cyrus’ upcoming musical/visual album, “Something Beautiful.

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2025-04-28 18:54