By Zach Johnson
The forecast for this fall is looking cloudy.
Disney+ just announced the feature film Clouds will premiere exclusively on the streaming service this fall. The film, which recently completed production in Montreal, is based on the memoir Fly a Little Higher by Laura Sobiech, Zach Sobiech’s mother. Directed and produced by Wayfarer Studios co-founder Justin Baldoni, it marks the first narrative film acquisition from the Disney+ Global Content team and will stream exclusively in all Disney+ markets.
Clouds tells the true story of Zach, a musically gifted 17-year old living with a rare bone cancer (osteosarcoma). The inspirational film follows his journey over the course of his senior year as he navigates the complexities of love, friendship, family, and leaving behind a musical legacy. Led by Fin Argus as Zach Sobiech, the talented ensemble cast includes Sabrina Carpenter as his best friend and bandmate, Sammy; Madison Iseman as his girlfriend, Amy; and Thomas Everett Scott and Neve Campbell as his parents, Laura and Rob.
“I fell in love with Zach’s infectious joy and spirit seven years ago when I made a short documentary about his life. Just before he passed, I made a promise to him that I would do whatever I could to make sure the world heard his music,” said Baldoni. “In the age of COVID-19, with the future of the theatre business up in the air, it was extremely important to me to ensure Zach’s message of hope, faith and triumph in the face of adversity truly had the opportunity to touch as many hearts around the world as possible. That’s why I’m so excited to be partnering with Disney+ for my first film under our Wayfarer Studios banner, as it’s the perfect home and platform to bring Zach’s incredible story to the world.”
“Justin has created a poignant and uplifting tribute to Zach, whose story shows us the power of optimism, music, and human connection,” added Ricky Strauss, president, Content & Marketing, Disney+. “As our team searches the world for stories that entertain and inspire, Clouds is a fantastic fit for Disney+ and our global audience.”
