In an industry where bestselling novels often find their way to the screen, it’s rare for a celebrated author to make the leap into original screenwriting. But that’s exactly what’s unfolding with Out of Luck, a new feature film in development from Vancouver-based Flat/Head Films, marking the first screenplay adaptation from Catherine McKenzie—the USA Today bestselling novelist behind more than twenty books.
Announced on April 16, 2026, the project signals an exciting new chapter not only for McKenzie, but also for a creative team bringing together Canadian storytelling with international production ambitions.
A High-Stakes Heist with a Distinct Voice
At its core, Out of Luck is a revenge-driven heist story—one that centers on a group of women determined to reclaim control after being wronged.
Set against the spirited backdrop of St. Patrick’s Day, the narrative follows these women as they orchestrate a bold plan to rob a series of Irish bars owned by the man who betrayed them. The premise blends suspense with sharp character dynamics, offering a female-driven take on the heist genre that feels both contemporary and character-focused.
For McKenzie, the project represents an opportunity to translate the storytelling sensibility that has defined her literary career into a cinematic format—one that reflects both her commercial appeal and her understanding of audience-driven narratives.
From Page to Screen: A New Creative Chapter
Writing under the pseudonym Catherine Mack, McKenzie has built a global readership, with nearly two million books sold worldwide. Known for her work across suspense, thrillers, and romantic comedies—including her popular Vacation Mysteries series—she now steps into filmmaking with Out of Luck as her first feature screenplay.
Her transition into film feels like a natural progression, especially at a time when audiences are increasingly drawn to strong, character-led stories with broad appeal. For McKenzie, the project also reflects a belief in the growing demand for Canadian stories within both domestic and international markets.
A Director with Momentum
Bringing the story to life is director Laura Adkin, who is coming off the success of her debut feature Re:Uniting.
The film, which premiered at the Austin Film Festival in 2023 and saw a North American theatrical release in 2024, earned recognition for its emotional depth and strong performances, including those from Jesse L. Martin and Michelle Harrison. Its festival success and awards run positioned Adkin as a filmmaker to watch—making her a fitting choice to helm a project that blends suspense with character-driven storytelling.
Adkin’s enthusiasm for Out of Luck reflects the project’s potential to stand out within the genre, particularly through its focus on female perspectives and its distinctly Canadian creative voice.
A Collaborative Production Across Borders
Produced by Adkin alongside Krista Rand, the film is being developed as a Canada-Hungary co-production between Flat/Head Films and Scripted Productions.
The project will shoot in Budapest, with location scouting already underway, bringing an international dimension to what remains a Canadian-led creative effort. Additional collaborators include co-producers Julia Molnar and Tamás McGillivray, with cinematography by Stirling Bancroft, whose previous work includes Freaks and Final Destination Bloodlines.
This cross-border collaboration reflects a broader trend in independent filmmaking—where international partnerships allow projects to scale creatively while maintaining their original voice.
Cannes as a Launchpad
As development continues, Out of Luck is set to make its next move at the Marché du Film, part of the prestigious Festival de Cannes.
Adkin and Rand will present the project through the Film Market Access Program, an initiative designed to connect emerging filmmakers with the global marketplace. The program offers a platform to further develop, position, and secure partnerships for films navigating the competitive international landscape.
For Out of Luck, Cannes represents not just exposure, but an opportunity to shape the film’s future trajectory—both creatively and commercially.
A Story of Ambition and Timing
The development of Out of Luck arrives at a moment when audiences are increasingly seeking stories that combine entertainment with perspective—narratives that are both engaging and reflective of diverse voices.
With its female-led storyline, international scope, and the combined experience of its creative team, the film is positioned to resonate across markets while maintaining a strong sense of identity.
Looking Ahead
As Out of Luck moves from script to screen, it carries with it the promise of something fresh—a project rooted in storytelling, collaboration, and the evolving landscape of Canadian cinema.
For Catherine McKenzie, it marks the beginning of a new creative journey. For Laura Adkin and the production team, it’s another step forward in building a body of work that balances ambition with authenticity.
And for audiences, it’s a reminder that sometimes, the most compelling stories come from those willing to take a risk—and make their own luck.
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