NASCAR, Britney Spears announce movie project

LOS ANGELES, CA -- NASCAR (National Association for Stock Car Auto Racing) and Britney Spears Productions (BSP) have signed a category exclusive agreement to develop and produce a dramatic feature film set in the world of NASCAR. The announcement was made Monday by Paul Brooks, vice president broadcasting, NASCAR, and Larry Rudolph and Ann Carli, BSP Productions.

The untitled project, currently in the preliminary writing and development stage will be written by Jim Hart ("Contact," "Hook"). The film will tell the fictional story of the daughter of a successful, modern day NASCAR team owner and will include opportunities to feature real NASCAR drivers, teams, tracks and competition.

The film will give an authentic portrayal of the heart and family spirit of NASCAR and Spears is slated to co-star as a young character that uses her knowledge and experience in the family business to inspire a former NASCAR driver to regain his desire to return to NASCAR racing. Spears will not portray a NASCAR driver.

"One of NASCAR's objectives is to grow our sport by developing entertainment projects that introduce NASCAR drivers, teams, tracks and their sponsors to an ever-growing audience," said Brooks.

"We have received numerous movie concepts set in the world of NASCAR, but chose this project because it is a great story that embraces our true, genuine sport as its backdrop. Britney Spears' involvement will help us reach an untapped fan base while serving our core fans with the authentic NASCAR experience."

"We are excited to be working with the NASCAR family," said Carli. "Our goal is to create a film that honestly portrays the spirit of NASCAR. It is not just about winning -- it's about family, perseverance and the belief that any dream is possible."

Carli produced Spears' first feature film project, "Crossroads" in spring 2002 to strong reviews and international box office success. Spears and her co-manager Rudolph joined forces with Carli in May 2001, and formed Britney Spears Productions. This is the first feature under the joint venture.

Spears' previous involvement with NASCAR, as the Grand Marshal for the 2001 Pepsi 400 in 2001, was extremely positive for NASCAR as it created exposure for the sport within the music and entertainment industry and media.