Black Bear snags Laika’s *Atmosphere* worldwide—what’s next?

**Laika’s “Atmosphere” Secures Global Rights Deal With Black Bear**

Laika has announced that its live‑action adaptation of Taylor Jenkins Reid’s bestseller *Atmosphere*—directed by Anna Boden and Ryan Fleck—has been sold worldwide to Black Bear. The acquisition came after a competitive bidding process revealed in May 2025.

Black Bear will co‑finance the film, act as its international sales agent, and release the movie in the United States and its own territories.

*Atmosphere* is set amid NASA’s Space Shuttle program in the 1980s. It follows Joan, a brilliant young astronaut, and a new generation of crew members as they prepare for missions where every launch could be their last.

As the story unfolds, Joan and fellow astronaut Vanessa form a bond that will shape their lives, only to be tested when catastrophe forces them into a race against time that demands courage, sacrifice, and love.

The production is a Laika endeavor in association with Circle M+P. Laika executives Travis Knight, Matt Levin, and Jeremy Kipp Walker, together with Boden & Fleck, Taylor Jenkins Reid, and Brad Mendelsohn of Circle M+P serve as producers. Maryse Knight and Zac Locke are listed as executive producers.

## Background & Context

The project has been in development for several years, with news of the adaptation breaking publicly in May 2025. *Atmosphere* draws on Reid’s bestselling novel, which has sold more than 24 million copies worldwide and inspired multiple film and television projects.

The story’s focus on NASA’s Space Shuttle program situates it within a high‑stakes era of American space exploration, promising a blend of scientific detail and human drama.

Laika, traditionally known for its animated features, is expanding into live‑action storytelling. *Atmosphere* joins the studio’s growing slate, including the upcoming release of *Wildwood*, slated for October 23 2026.

The partnership with Circle M+P underscores Laika’s commitment to broadening its production partnerships and securing diverse creative talent.

## What People Are Saying

Katie Anderson,

EVP Acquisitions at Black Bear, described the film as “exactly the kind of bold, ambitious event film Black Bear is passionate about bringing to audiences.” She added that Taylor Jenkins Reid is “one of the defining storytellers of her generation” and that Boden & Fleck can deliver “blockbuster spectacle without sacrificing emotional intimacy.” Anderson emphasized the partnership’s potential to create an unforgettable theatrical experience.

Matt Levin, Laika’s President of Live‑Action Films and Series, praised Black Bear’s global reach.

He said, “From day one, our collaboration with Taylor, Brad, Ryan, and Anna has been anchored in a shared ambition to make a version of *Atmosphere* that truly demands to be experienced as a major cinematic event.” Levin expressed confidence that Black Bear would bring the film to audiences worldwide on the grandest possible stage.

Black Bear’s domestic slate is expanding to include up to 12 releases annually, positioning *Atmosphere* within a broader strategy of high‑profile, event‑style features.

## What Happens Next

Black Bear will serve as the film’s international sales agent and co‑financier. It will also handle the domestic release in the United States and its territories. While specific release dates for *Atmosphere* have not yet been announced, the partnership indicates a coordinated strategy for global distribution.

The collaboration between Laika, Black Bear, and Circle M+P suggests a focus on delivering large‑scale cinematic experiences that blend spectacle with intimate storytelling.

As the project moves into production, industry observers will watch for further announcements regarding filming schedules, cast details, and eventual release timelines.

In sum, the acquisition of *Atmosphere* by Black Bear marks a significant step for Laika’s live‑action ambitions and promises to bring a compelling, NASA‑era narrative to screens around the world.