Hollywood, California – Renowned low-budget action film producer Randall Emmett has recently announced a major collaboration with Oscar-winning director Martin Scorsese to bring the story of a tragic 1982 avalanche near Lake Tahoe to the silver screen. The film, titled “Wall of White,” is set to be produced and financed by Emmett’s production company, Convergence Entertainment Group. The project is based on a book from 2010 and a documentary from 2021 that shed light on the devastating avalanche that occurred in Northern California, resulting in the deaths of seven individuals and the miraculous survival of one woman.
Despite the anticipation surrounding the collaboration between Emmett and Scorsese, it has faced a roadblock with the Writers Guild of America West issuing a warning to its members against working on the film due to Emmett’s failure to pay writers for their past contributions to his projects. The Guild has placed Emmett on its “strike list” since 2020 as a result of numerous arbitration claims filed against companies owned by Emmett over the years.
In response to the Guild’s advisory, Emmett has expressed his commitment to resolving the dispute and ensuring that writers are compensated for their work on “Wall of White.” However, the Guild remains skeptical, with a senior attorney stating that Emmett has made promises to pay in the past without following through. The project has also faced scrutiny following allegations of abuse against women and mistreatment of assistants and business partners involving Emmett, which he denies.
With the film expected to go into production this year, Emmett’s new production company, Convergence Entertainment Group, is working alongside Realization Films, including producers of the documentary, to bring the tragic story to life. While a director has yet to be attached to the project, the involvement of acclaimed screenwriter Petter Skavlan and book author Jennifer Woodlief indicates a promising future for “Wall of White.” Despite Emmett’s checkered past and legal troubles, he continues to attract high-profile partners and actors for his films, showcasing a resilient spirit in the face of adversity.
Emmett’s collaboration with Scorsese marks a significant milestone in his career, dating back to their partnership on “Silence” in 2013, which paved the way for Emmett’s involvement in the critically acclaimed “The Irishman” in 2019. As the narrative of “Wall of White” unfolds, audiences can anticipate a compelling tale of survival and resilience in the aftermath of a devastating natural disaster, brought to life by the creative vision of Emmett and Scorsese.