By Naman Ramachandran
George Dowell‘s unlikely path to soccer club ownership is set to score on the big screen as Sharp House begins pre-production on “World at His Feet.”
The 2023 BFI London Film Festival title “Black Dog” producers are tackling this true-life tale of perseverance, which follows Dowell’s journey from a career-ending accident to becoming the youngest chair in the soccer league.
Written by Libby Adam (“I’ll Play Mother,” “Daring”), “World at His Feet” tells the true story of Dowell, whose promising soccer career was cut short at 17 due to a car accident that left him wheelchair-bound. After a prolonged insurance battle, Dowell learns of his local soccer club, Worthing FC, facing administration. Using his accident compensation, he takes a risk to purchase the club, becoming the youngest chair in the soccer league.
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The film, produced by Sharp House’s Ian Sharp (“The Matriarch,” “Black Dog,” “The Marker”) and Jason Maza (“Twist,” “Bullet Proof,” “Sparks”), is due to start shooting in Worthing, U.K., in Q1 2025, with delivery expected later that year. A director is being attached.
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A TV documentary on Dowell’s story, “The Club that George Built,” premiered on TNT Sport and Discovery+ recently.
Dowell said: “I’ve been blown away by the response to the documentary and how well it’s been received. It’s surreal that we’re going to continue the journey and take mine and Worthing FC’s story to the big screen. I’m delighted to be working with Ian and Jason at Sharp House, they are incredibly experienced film makers and I can’t wait to see how it all develops.”
Producer and Sharp House CEO, Ian Sharp, added: “Sharp House feels like the perfect fit for George and his unique story. With myself recently becoming co-owner of Scunthorpe United Football [soccer] Club, I know first hand what the emotional roller coaster of being a club owner is. I’m thrilled we are getting to work with George and have the opportunity to create something truly special.”
Maza said: “When I first met George and learned of his story, it just screamed to me of deserving a place on the big screen. It’s a unique inspirational tale about overcoming adversity and every challenge life has to throw at you. It’s funny, emotional and uplifting. With rising star Libby Adam penning the screenplay we are in incredible hands.”
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