Bleecker Street announced it has secured U.S. distribution rights to Gabriela Cowperthwaite’s true-life story, MEGAN LEAVEY, from LD Entertainment for a June 9, 2017 release. The film is based on the life of Leavey (Kate Mara), a young marine corporal in the K9 unit whose unique discipline and bond with her military combat dog saved many lives during their deployment in Iraq.

The film also stars Edie Falco, Ramon Rodriguez, Bradley Whitford, and Common. Directed by Cowperthwaite (Blackfish) from a screenplay by Pamela Gray and Annie Mumolo & Tim Lovestedt, MEGAN LEAVEY was produced by Mickey Liddell, Pete Shilaimon and Jennifer Monroe.

The film recounts Megan Leavey’s life following the death of her best friend to enlisting in the ranks of the U.S. Marine Corps. When she is assigned to clean up the K9 unit after a disciplinary hearing, she identifies with a particularly aggressive dog, Rex, and is given the chance to train him. Over the course of their service, Megan and Rex completed more than 100 missions until an IED explosion injures them, putting their fate in jeopardy.

Andrew Karpen, CEO of Bleecker Street, said, “Megan Leavey’s devotion to our country and to her K9 partner, Rex, are a testament to the strength of our military and the indomitable spirit and honor of our troops. Her story truly exemplifies the kind of heroism and bravery that will touch each and everyone of us as filmgoers.”

Mickey Liddell, President of LD Entertainment, said, “When I first met Megan Leavey five years ago, I was stunned by her courage and dedication to serving our country. Her emotional connection with Rex told a heroic story that I hadn’t seen yet on the big screen and I knew I needed to share her compelling journey. We are excited to reteam with Bleecker Street on another passion project about real life heroes.”

The deal was negotiated between Kent Sanderson of Bleecker Street with Avy Eschenasy on behalf of Bleecker Street and attorney Eric Thompson and UTA Independent Film Group on behalf of the filmmakers.