Atonement and Pirates of the Caribbean franchise star Keira Knightley is gearing up to star in a dystopian science-fiction thriller, Conception, about the British government assuming control over parenting. Directed and written by Camille Griffin, Conception preys on the fears of parents worldwide, who, at some point or another, have experienced nightmares about undesirable parties overseeing their child’s development, wants, and needs. Celine Rattray and Trudie Styler produce through Maven Screen Media, with Fortitude taking the lead on international sales at the upcoming American Film Market event.
“Conception is a sci-fi thriller set in the not-too-distant future of Britain, where the government has taken authoritarian rule over parenting,” the official synopsis reads. “The film follows Rita (Knightley), a loyal civil servant and believer in the unforgiving system she upholds, until unexpected events endanger her own parental status, rendering her victim to the same laws she so readily inflicted on others.”
“We are in awe of Camille’s vivid imagination and creative talent,” said a representative of Maven Screen Media. “She has a unique ability to express big, complex ideas in everyday, relatable events. We are thrilled to reassemble the Silent Night team and work with Keira again.”
“I’m lucky to have found in Keira, a better (certainly more attractive) version of myself to project my creativity onto,” said Griffin. “Keira is as great an ally as she is a talent. I plan to make a unique and exciting film together.”
Before teaming up for Conception, Griffin and Knightley partnered for Silent Night, a dramatic comedy about Nell (Knightley), Simon (Matthew Goode), and their son Art (Roman Griffin Davis), who are ready to welcome friends and family for what promises to be a perfect Christmas gathering. Well, unless you focus on the fact that everyone will die. Merry Christmas!
Relinquishing control of your children’s upbringing is a terrifying yet necessary part of life. However, it’s another thing when the government calls for control over your ability to instill admirable values and lessons about past mistakes in those who can carry the family torch. Will Rita rethink her actions when “Government Man” comes knocking? We’re about to find out.