Strand Releasing has acquired the North American rights to Ray Yeung’s “All Shall Be Well,” which world premiered at this year’s Berlinale and won the Teddy Prize for best film. The movie played last week as the opening film at the Hong Kong International Film Festival.
“All Shall Be Well” chronicles the lives of two women, Angie and Pat, a couple living in Hong Kong who have been together for over four decades. After Pat’s unexpected death, Angie finds herself at the mercy of her extended family as she struggles to retain both her dignity and the home that they shared for over 30 years.
A universal tale, the movie also explores the limitations of Hong Kong’s laws, which don’t allow same-sex marriage. Patra Au Ga Man and Maggie Li Lin Lin star in the lead roles of Angie and Pat, respectively.
The deal was done...
“All Shall Be Well” chronicles the lives of two women, Angie and Pat, a couple living in Hong Kong who have been together for over four decades. After Pat’s unexpected death, Angie finds herself at the mercy of her extended family as she struggles to retain both her dignity and the home that they shared for over 30 years.
A universal tale, the movie also explores the limitations of Hong Kong’s laws, which don’t allow same-sex marriage. Patra Au Ga Man and Maggie Li Lin Lin star in the lead roles of Angie and Pat, respectively.
The deal was done...
- 4/10/2024
- by Elsa Keslassy
- Variety Film + TV
The 27th Sonoma International Film Festival (March 20-24), as always, leaned into wine and food with the sold-out opening night U.S. premiere of Thomas Napper’s “Widow Clicquot” (Vertical Entertainment), starring Haley Bennett as the woman who saves the legendary winemaker’s legacy. The wine country film festival drew its highest audience attendance to date with a robust film slate programmed by artistic director Carl Spence (working with Executive Director Ginny Krieger), in his second year, including upcoming specialty fare like Luc Besson’s “DogMan” (Briarcliff Entertainment) starring Caleb Landry Jones in an incendiary performance, and Sony Pictures Classics’ raucous comedy “Wicked Little Letters,” starring Olivia Colman, along with a smattering of yummy wine and food events.
The five-day festival curated by Spence along with senior programmers Amanda Salazar and Ken Jacobson, showcased more than 100 films. Twenty-five countries were represented in this year’s lineup of 43 narrative features, 16 documentary features,...
The five-day festival curated by Spence along with senior programmers Amanda Salazar and Ken Jacobson, showcased more than 100 films. Twenty-five countries were represented in this year’s lineup of 43 narrative features, 16 documentary features,...
- 3/24/2024
- by Anne Thompson
- Indiewire
The Academy has announced the five winners of the 2023 Academy Nicholl Fellowships in Screenwriting who each win a $35,000 prize and mentorship from an Academy member throughout their fellowship year.
The recipients will also be featured at the Academy Nicholl Fellowships in Screenwriting Awards and Live Read on April 25 at the Academy’s Samuel Goldwyn Theater (pictured), where an ensemble of actors will read selected scenes from the 2023 winning scripts.
The 2023 winners appear below listed alphabetically:
Brent Delaney, Brownie Mary
At the height of the AIDS crisis, Mary Jane Rathbun illegally distributes cannabis-infused brownies to heal thousands of gay men in...
The recipients will also be featured at the Academy Nicholl Fellowships in Screenwriting Awards and Live Read on April 25 at the Academy’s Samuel Goldwyn Theater (pictured), where an ensemble of actors will read selected scenes from the 2023 winning scripts.
The 2023 winners appear below listed alphabetically:
Brent Delaney, Brownie Mary
At the height of the AIDS crisis, Mary Jane Rathbun illegally distributes cannabis-infused brownies to heal thousands of gay men in...
- 3/4/2024
- ScreenDaily
John Tilley, a longtime distribution exec and advocate for independent film at companies including United Artists Classics, Cinevista and Strand, who was instrumental in introducing the films of Pedro Almodovar to U.S. audiences, died Sunday in New York City. He was 75.
“John was always a consummate encyclopedia of knowledge of the industry, and his pool of friends and colleagues from around the globe always created a sense of family in Cannes, Berlin and more. His work at Strand Releasing was invaluable,” said Marcus Hu, co-president of Strand Releasing.
Filmmaker Ira Sachs said, “John was one of the first people I met in the film business, and he remained one of the kindest. He was open, curious, passionate, opinionated, and wise, and he knew the history of American and queer independent cinema like few others. His loss represents the passing of a generation of pioneers that created the community and industry that we know today.
“John was always a consummate encyclopedia of knowledge of the industry, and his pool of friends and colleagues from around the globe always created a sense of family in Cannes, Berlin and more. His work at Strand Releasing was invaluable,” said Marcus Hu, co-president of Strand Releasing.
Filmmaker Ira Sachs said, “John was one of the first people I met in the film business, and he remained one of the kindest. He was open, curious, passionate, opinionated, and wise, and he knew the history of American and queer independent cinema like few others. His loss represents the passing of a generation of pioneers that created the community and industry that we know today.
- 10/11/2023
- by Pat Saperstein
- Variety Film + TV
Strand Releasing has snatched up North American distribution rights to Singaporean filmmaker Anthony Chen’s recent Cannes favorite The Breaking Ice. The film made its world premiere in May in Cannes’ Un Certain Regard section, with The Hollywood Reporter‘s critics later selecting it as one of the 20 best films screened at the festival this year.
The Breaking Ice tells the story of an unlikely, fleeting friendship formed between three restless young people in China’s far northeastern border city of Yanji. It is headlined by a star-studded ensemble of young Chinese talent, including Zhou Dongyu (Oscar-nominated Better Days), Liu Haoran (the Detective Chinatown franchise) and Qu Chuxiao (The Wandering Earth).
Chen previously won Cannes’ Caméra d’Or award with his debut feature Ilo Ilo (2013), which was later submitted by Singapore as its entry to the Oscars’ best international film race. His second feature Wet Season premiered in Toronto and his English-language debut,...
The Breaking Ice tells the story of an unlikely, fleeting friendship formed between three restless young people in China’s far northeastern border city of Yanji. It is headlined by a star-studded ensemble of young Chinese talent, including Zhou Dongyu (Oscar-nominated Better Days), Liu Haoran (the Detective Chinatown franchise) and Qu Chuxiao (The Wandering Earth).
Chen previously won Cannes’ Caméra d’Or award with his debut feature Ilo Ilo (2013), which was later submitted by Singapore as its entry to the Oscars’ best international film race. His second feature Wet Season premiered in Toronto and his English-language debut,...
- 7/24/2023
- by Patrick Brzeski
- The Hollywood Reporter - Movie News
Strand Releasing is restoring Gregg Araki’s 1997 cult film “Nowhere,” bringing stars James Duval, Christina Applegate, Debi Mazar and Mena Suvari into 4K. This is the final addition to the restoration of Araki’s 1990’s Teen Apocalypse trilogy. In addition to Strand, the Bureau Sales and French producers Why Not are assisting on the project.
“I’m so gratified that these films are finding a new generation of viewers and seeing them projected at theatres and venues across the globe,” said Araki. Select scenes omitted in the original theatrical “Nowhere” release for MPAA rating purposes will be restored in this new director’s cut.
“Nowhere” is a black comedy take on teen drama. Araki mashes together decades of teenage television and movie tropes and wraps them up in this intense 24-hour snippet into the lives of Los Angeles college students. “Sexy, psychedelic, dementedly funny, with a sensational soundtrack…it’s like ‘Clueless’ with nipple rings,...
“I’m so gratified that these films are finding a new generation of viewers and seeing them projected at theatres and venues across the globe,” said Araki. Select scenes omitted in the original theatrical “Nowhere” release for MPAA rating purposes will be restored in this new director’s cut.
“Nowhere” is a black comedy take on teen drama. Araki mashes together decades of teenage television and movie tropes and wraps them up in this intense 24-hour snippet into the lives of Los Angeles college students. “Sexy, psychedelic, dementedly funny, with a sensational soundtrack…it’s like ‘Clueless’ with nipple rings,...
- 5/8/2023
- by Sophia Scorziello
- Variety Film + TV
Since its 1995 release, writer-director Gregg Araki’s gonzo Nc-17 crime movie “The Doom Generation” — about a trio of teens on a bloody road trip — has achieved cult classic status and paved a way for provocative and confrontational YA content like “Euphoria.” But after its Sundance Film Festival debut, almost no one saw the film Araki made.
“It’s shocking to me that the movie has survived all this time as a cult film with a devoted audience,” Araki told IndieWire’s Filmmaker Toolkit podcast. “The [VHS and DVD] version that exists was never properly letterboxed, there’s a lot of stuff I didn’t like in terms of the color and sound, and the original master is not up to technical standards for streaming or Blu-ray.”
That’s all about to change with the release of a newly restored and remastered “Doom Generation” supervised by Araki that is set to begin rolling out...
“It’s shocking to me that the movie has survived all this time as a cult film with a devoted audience,” Araki told IndieWire’s Filmmaker Toolkit podcast. “The [VHS and DVD] version that exists was never properly letterboxed, there’s a lot of stuff I didn’t like in terms of the color and sound, and the original master is not up to technical standards for streaming or Blu-ray.”
That’s all about to change with the release of a newly restored and remastered “Doom Generation” supervised by Araki that is set to begin rolling out...
- 3/31/2023
- by Jim Hemphill
- Indiewire
Launching with the opening night world premiere of Marc Turtletaub’s “Jules,” a crowdpleaser sales title starring Ben Kingsley, the 26th annual Sonoma International Film Festival (March 22-26) drew its highest audience attendance to date. The wine country film festival combined a robust film slate programmed by newly appointed artistic director Carl Spence (working with Executive Director Ginny Krieger), from upcoming specialty fare like Paul Schrader’s “The Master Gardener,” starring Joel Edgerton and Sigourney Weaver, and Searchlight’s period biopic “Chevalier,” starring Kelvin Harrison Jr., with a smattering of yummy wine and food events with top chefs, from Martin Yan’s Shaking Beef with Three Onions to Joanne Weir’s herb-covered goat cheese tarte.
The five-day festival curated by Spence along with senior programmers Amanda Salazar and Ken Jacobson, showcased 110 films, including seven films making their US premieres as well as films acclaimed on the festival circuit. Thirty-two countries...
The five-day festival curated by Spence along with senior programmers Amanda Salazar and Ken Jacobson, showcased 110 films, including seven films making their US premieres as well as films acclaimed on the festival circuit. Thirty-two countries...
- 3/26/2023
- by Anne Thompson
- Indiewire
Director Benjamin Millepied’s “Carmen,” a musical starring Paul Mescal, will have its West Coast premiere March 25 at the 2023 Sonoma International Film Festival (Siff).
Another debut set to take place during the five-day festival is the world premiere of “Jules,” with director Marc Turtletaub and stars Ben Kingsley and Jane Curtin planning to make an appearance for the occasion. The screening will kick off the opening night of the festival on March 22.
Capping off the event are closing night films “The Eight Mountains,” which received a grand jury prize after its Cannes premiere, and Stephen Williams’ “Chevalier.”
Including the seven U.S. premieres slated for the festival, this year’s lineup features 110 films representative of 32 countries. In total, 38 narrative features, 20 documentary features and 52 short films were selected by the festival curators.
“For my first edition at the Sonoma International Film Festival, with a new curatorial team in place, we aimed...
Another debut set to take place during the five-day festival is the world premiere of “Jules,” with director Marc Turtletaub and stars Ben Kingsley and Jane Curtin planning to make an appearance for the occasion. The screening will kick off the opening night of the festival on March 22.
Capping off the event are closing night films “The Eight Mountains,” which received a grand jury prize after its Cannes premiere, and Stephen Williams’ “Chevalier.”
Including the seven U.S. premieres slated for the festival, this year’s lineup features 110 films representative of 32 countries. In total, 38 narrative features, 20 documentary features and 52 short films were selected by the festival curators.
“For my first edition at the Sonoma International Film Festival, with a new curatorial team in place, we aimed...
- 2/28/2023
- by Jazz Tangcay, Charna Flam and Katie Reul
- Variety Film + TV
When you think about scrappy, micro-budget, guerrilla filmmaking of the ’90s, you think of Gregg Araki films. Shot on shoestring budgets with little more than his own two hands, Araki’s films were marked by a certain kind of radical punk rock aesthetic that mirrored the grunge era in music.
Described as a gay “Thelma and Louise,” he began the decade with “The Living End” (1992), a sexy road trip comedy about two young guys living with HIV. After making a splash at Sundance with that film, (and with the help of visionary longtime producer Marcus Hu), he churned out a trio of erotically charged teenage dirtbag films, dubbed his Teenage Apocalypse trilogy: “Totally Fucked Up” (1993), “The Doom Generation” (1995), and “Nowhere” (1997).
At the forefront of the New Queer Cinema, an enduring queerness ignites all of Araki’s films, though he certainly had fun toying with expectations. If every rebellious teenager wanted...
Described as a gay “Thelma and Louise,” he began the decade with “The Living End” (1992), a sexy road trip comedy about two young guys living with HIV. After making a splash at Sundance with that film, (and with the help of visionary longtime producer Marcus Hu), he churned out a trio of erotically charged teenage dirtbag films, dubbed his Teenage Apocalypse trilogy: “Totally Fucked Up” (1993), “The Doom Generation” (1995), and “Nowhere” (1997).
At the forefront of the New Queer Cinema, an enduring queerness ignites all of Araki’s films, though he certainly had fun toying with expectations. If every rebellious teenager wanted...
- 8/17/2022
- by Jude Dry
- Indiewire
Strand Releasing has acquired all North American rights to Maryam Touzani’s “The Blue Caftan,” which world premiered at Cannes and won the Fipresci prize. The film, which is represented in international markets by Films Boutique, will have its North American premiere at Toronto in the Special Screenings section.
Touzani’s follow-up to Un Certain Regard title “Adam,” “The Blue Caftan” tells the story of Halim and Mina, a married couple running a traditional caftan store in one of Morocco’s oldest medinas. In order to keep up with the commands of the demanding customers, they hire Youssef. The talented apprentice shows an utmost dedication in learning the art of embroidery and tailoring from Halim. Slowly Mina realizes how much her husband is moved by the presence of the young man.
Produced by Nabil Ayouch, “The Blue Caftan” stars Lubna Azabal (“Incendies”) and Saleh Bakri.
Touzani said “The Blue Caftan...
Touzani’s follow-up to Un Certain Regard title “Adam,” “The Blue Caftan” tells the story of Halim and Mina, a married couple running a traditional caftan store in one of Morocco’s oldest medinas. In order to keep up with the commands of the demanding customers, they hire Youssef. The talented apprentice shows an utmost dedication in learning the art of embroidery and tailoring from Halim. Slowly Mina realizes how much her husband is moved by the presence of the young man.
Produced by Nabil Ayouch, “The Blue Caftan” stars Lubna Azabal (“Incendies”) and Saleh Bakri.
Touzani said “The Blue Caftan...
- 8/9/2022
- by Elsa Keslassy
- Variety Film + TV
Strand Releasing has bought North American rights to João Pedro Rodrigues’ “Will-o’-The-Wisp” which had its world premiere at Director’s Fortnight in Cannes. Films Boutique represents the movie in international markets.
Set in 2069, the daring fantasy film revolves around the youth memories of a dying Portuguese aristocrat who dreamed of becoming a firefighter and unexpectedly fell in love with his instructor.
Rodrigues previously directed “The Ornithologist” which played at Locarno and Toronto, and “O Fantasma.” ”Will-o’-The-Wisp” is produced by House on Fire, Terratreme Filmes and Filmes Fantasma.
This latest acquisition re-teams Rodrigues with Strand Releasing which handled the helmer’s “O Fantasma,” “Two Drifters,” “To Die Like a Man” and “The Ornithologist.” Rodrigues also directed a short film which was part of “30/30 Vision,” a tribute to Strand Releasing which world premiered at the Museum of Modern Art in New York.
“We are so happy to be collaborating with...
Set in 2069, the daring fantasy film revolves around the youth memories of a dying Portuguese aristocrat who dreamed of becoming a firefighter and unexpectedly fell in love with his instructor.
Rodrigues previously directed “The Ornithologist” which played at Locarno and Toronto, and “O Fantasma.” ”Will-o’-The-Wisp” is produced by House on Fire, Terratreme Filmes and Filmes Fantasma.
This latest acquisition re-teams Rodrigues with Strand Releasing which handled the helmer’s “O Fantasma,” “Two Drifters,” “To Die Like a Man” and “The Ornithologist.” Rodrigues also directed a short film which was part of “30/30 Vision,” a tribute to Strand Releasing which world premiered at the Museum of Modern Art in New York.
“We are so happy to be collaborating with...
- 7/14/2022
- by Elsa Keslassy
- Variety Film + TV
Strand Releasing has acquired all North American rights to Alain Guiraudie’s “Nobody’s Hero” which is handled by Films du Losange and world premiered at the Berlin Film Festival.
The movie, which opened the Berlinale Panorama section, is set in Clermont-Ferrand revolves around Frederic, a 35 year-old man who falls in love with with a middle-aged sex worker who is married.
“Nobody’s Hero” marks the third collaboration between Strand and Guiraudie which began with the helmer’s most successful film “Stranger By The Lake,” followed by his Cannes Competition title, “Staying Vertical.”
“Alain has been a dear colleague to our company, and we are so happy to be working with him again on this wonderfully exuberant comedy that is not only funny, but humane and completely original,” said Strand Releasing’s Jon Gerrans who negotiated the deal with Alice Lesort for Films du Losange. Guiraudie previously contributed to Strand Releasing’s...
The movie, which opened the Berlinale Panorama section, is set in Clermont-Ferrand revolves around Frederic, a 35 year-old man who falls in love with with a middle-aged sex worker who is married.
“Nobody’s Hero” marks the third collaboration between Strand and Guiraudie which began with the helmer’s most successful film “Stranger By The Lake,” followed by his Cannes Competition title, “Staying Vertical.”
“Alain has been a dear colleague to our company, and we are so happy to be working with him again on this wonderfully exuberant comedy that is not only funny, but humane and completely original,” said Strand Releasing’s Jon Gerrans who negotiated the deal with Alice Lesort for Films du Losange. Guiraudie previously contributed to Strand Releasing’s...
- 4/4/2022
- by Elsa Keslassy
- Variety Film + TV
Following its world premiere as the Berlin Film Festival opener, Francois Ozon’s “Peter von Kant” has been acquired by Strand Releasing for U.S. distribution.
Represented in international markets by Playtime, the critically acclaimed movie is inspired by Rainer Werner Fassbinder’s cult film “The Bitter Tears of Petra von Kant,” with Denis Menochet playing the tormented filmmaker, opposite Isabelle Adjani, who stars as his muse.
Ozon previously told Variety that the movie was a “universal tale of passion, timely as ever” and “explores the relationships of domination, control and submission in the creative world.”
“Peter von Kant” marks Ozon’s sixth movie that played in competition at the Berlin Film Festival. He won the Silver Bear for his 2018 film, “By the Grace of God,” and “8 Women” 20 years ago. He also debuted “Water Drops on Burning Rocks,” another adaptation of a Fassbinder work, at the festival in 2000.
Playtime...
Represented in international markets by Playtime, the critically acclaimed movie is inspired by Rainer Werner Fassbinder’s cult film “The Bitter Tears of Petra von Kant,” with Denis Menochet playing the tormented filmmaker, opposite Isabelle Adjani, who stars as his muse.
Ozon previously told Variety that the movie was a “universal tale of passion, timely as ever” and “explores the relationships of domination, control and submission in the creative world.”
“Peter von Kant” marks Ozon’s sixth movie that played in competition at the Berlin Film Festival. He won the Silver Bear for his 2018 film, “By the Grace of God,” and “8 Women” 20 years ago. He also debuted “Water Drops on Burning Rocks,” another adaptation of a Fassbinder work, at the festival in 2000.
Playtime...
- 3/22/2022
- by Elsa Keslassy
- Variety Film + TV
Strand Releasing has acquired all North American rights to “Marx Can Wait” by Italian film master Marco Bellocchio, who received the honorary Palme d’Or at this year’s Cannes Film Festival.
Represented in international markets by The Match Factory, “Marx Can Wait” is a moving and personal family tale exploring how the suicide of his twin brother Camillo shaped Bellocchio’s life and body of work. The documentary played at New York Film Festival and is eligible for this year’s Academy Awards.
In “Marx Can Wait,” Bellocchio tackles the trauma of Camillo’s death and invites family members to present their memories of his twin brother. The narrative and observational documentary shows how this loss has loomed over Bellocchio’s work like an unexpressed taboo marked by guilt, remorse and longing.
“We’re so thrilled to be partnering once again with The Match Factory and with Bellocchio on this beautiful,...
Represented in international markets by The Match Factory, “Marx Can Wait” is a moving and personal family tale exploring how the suicide of his twin brother Camillo shaped Bellocchio’s life and body of work. The documentary played at New York Film Festival and is eligible for this year’s Academy Awards.
In “Marx Can Wait,” Bellocchio tackles the trauma of Camillo’s death and invites family members to present their memories of his twin brother. The narrative and observational documentary shows how this loss has loomed over Bellocchio’s work like an unexpressed taboo marked by guilt, remorse and longing.
“We’re so thrilled to be partnering once again with The Match Factory and with Bellocchio on this beautiful,...
- 11/22/2021
- by Elsa Keslassy
- Variety Film + TV
Strand Releasing has acquired U.S. rights to Georgis Grigorakis’ feature debut “Digger,” Greece’s official entry for the Oscars’ international feature film race.
Set in the rich forests of Northern Greece, “Digger” is a modern-day psychological Western starring Vangelis Mourikis as an iconoclastic farmer at war against the encroachments of a ravenous industry and the demons of his past. When his estranged son appears on his doorstep, with a motorcycle and a grudge, nature itself will shake at their clash.
Grigorakis wrote the film, which was produced by Athens-based banner Haos Film. “Digger” had its world premiere at the Berlin Film Festival where it won the Cicae prize and went on to have a successful career in festivals, including Sarajevo, Thessaloniki and Philadelphia, and won several awards at the Hellenic Film Academy Awards. The movie has also had a strong box office run in Greece.
”We’re thrilled to...
Set in the rich forests of Northern Greece, “Digger” is a modern-day psychological Western starring Vangelis Mourikis as an iconoclastic farmer at war against the encroachments of a ravenous industry and the demons of his past. When his estranged son appears on his doorstep, with a motorcycle and a grudge, nature itself will shake at their clash.
Grigorakis wrote the film, which was produced by Athens-based banner Haos Film. “Digger” had its world premiere at the Berlin Film Festival where it won the Cicae prize and went on to have a successful career in festivals, including Sarajevo, Thessaloniki and Philadelphia, and won several awards at the Hellenic Film Academy Awards. The movie has also had a strong box office run in Greece.
”We’re thrilled to...
- 11/11/2021
- by Elsa Keslassy
- Variety Film + TV
The Swimmer is based on director Adam Kalderon’s own experiences.
Berlin-based M-Appeal has sold Adam Kalderon’s Israeli feature The Swimmer, about the sexual awakening of a young gay man, to North America (Strand Releasing), France (Outplay Films), and the UK & Ireland (Peccadillo Pictures).
Set in a summer training camp where young athletes compete to qualify for the Olympics, the film follows one young sportsman coming to terms with his sexuality, despite the discriminatory tendencies of the world in which he is competing. His drive to win is threatened by his burgeoning sexual desires.
The Swimmer is based on...
Berlin-based M-Appeal has sold Adam Kalderon’s Israeli feature The Swimmer, about the sexual awakening of a young gay man, to North America (Strand Releasing), France (Outplay Films), and the UK & Ireland (Peccadillo Pictures).
Set in a summer training camp where young athletes compete to qualify for the Olympics, the film follows one young sportsman coming to terms with his sexuality, despite the discriminatory tendencies of the world in which he is competing. His drive to win is threatened by his burgeoning sexual desires.
The Swimmer is based on...
- 10/15/2021
- by Geoffrey Macnab
- ScreenDaily
Strand Releasing has unveiled the trailer for Eric Steel’s coming-of-age film “Minyan” which world premiered at the Berlin Film Festival and won a special mention at the Jerusalem fest.
The feature debut will have its North American premiere in New York on Oct. 22., followed by a release in Los Angeles, San Francisco, Chicago and across the country. On top of its win at Jerusalem, the movie won the Grand Jury Prize for best U.S. narrative feature at Outfest.
“Minyan” tells the story of David, a young man from Brooklyn coming to terms with his sexual identity amidst the AIDS crisis in the 80’s, as well as his place within the Jewish community. He bonds with older gay couple whom he ends up supporting when one dies and the other is forced with an eviction from his housing project. David eventually creates a “minyan” to help provide protection for...
The feature debut will have its North American premiere in New York on Oct. 22., followed by a release in Los Angeles, San Francisco, Chicago and across the country. On top of its win at Jerusalem, the movie won the Grand Jury Prize for best U.S. narrative feature at Outfest.
“Minyan” tells the story of David, a young man from Brooklyn coming to terms with his sexual identity amidst the AIDS crisis in the 80’s, as well as his place within the Jewish community. He bonds with older gay couple whom he ends up supporting when one dies and the other is forced with an eviction from his housing project. David eventually creates a “minyan” to help provide protection for...
- 9/20/2021
- by Elsa Keslassy
- Variety Film + TV
Authors and university professors Samantha N. Sheppard and J.E. Smyth on Monday were named 2021 Academy Film Scholars by the Academy of Motion Picture Arts and Sciences. The grant, presented annually by the organization, is given to established scholars whose projects are focused on an aspect of filmmaking and the film industry.
The Academy’s Educational Grants Committee will award Sheppard and Smyth $25,000 apiece for their proposals: Sheppard will write A Black W/hole: Phantom Cinemas and the Reimagining of Black Women’s Media Histories, while Smythe will write Maisie: The Rise and Fall of Hollywood’s Most Powerful Woman, the latter a biography of the first female Screen Writers Guild president Mary C. McCall Jr.
They join 14 other Academy Film Scholars who are currently working on projects and 21 other scholars whose works have been published.
“For the third year in a row, we are delighted to support the brilliant research of two women scholars,...
The Academy’s Educational Grants Committee will award Sheppard and Smyth $25,000 apiece for their proposals: Sheppard will write A Black W/hole: Phantom Cinemas and the Reimagining of Black Women’s Media Histories, while Smythe will write Maisie: The Rise and Fall of Hollywood’s Most Powerful Woman, the latter a biography of the first female Screen Writers Guild president Mary C. McCall Jr.
They join 14 other Academy Film Scholars who are currently working on projects and 21 other scholars whose works have been published.
“For the third year in a row, we are delighted to support the brilliant research of two women scholars,...
- 7/19/2021
- by Patrick Hipes
- Deadline Film + TV
Strand Releasing has acquired all North American rights to “Cicada,” Matthew Fifer’s Brooklyn-set debut feature, which premiered last year at several festivals, including Frameline, Outfest and BFI London.
“Cicada” was written and directed by Fifer and Kieran Mulcare. The film was inspired by events in Sheldon Brown’s and Fifer’s own lives. Fifer headlines the film alongside Brown, who also co-wrote the script.
The film follows Ben (Fifer), a young bisexual man who, after a string of unsuccessful and awkward encounters, meets Sam (Brown), a man of color struggling with deep wounds of his own. As the summer progresses and their intimacy grows, their pasts begin to crawl to the surface.
“We’re thrilled to be working on Matt’s debut feature ‘Cicada.’ It’s a thrilling and promising new voice, one that fits our family of auteurs,” said Marcus Hu of Strand Releasing.
The film also stars Cobie Smulders,...
“Cicada” was written and directed by Fifer and Kieran Mulcare. The film was inspired by events in Sheldon Brown’s and Fifer’s own lives. Fifer headlines the film alongside Brown, who also co-wrote the script.
The film follows Ben (Fifer), a young bisexual man who, after a string of unsuccessful and awkward encounters, meets Sam (Brown), a man of color struggling with deep wounds of his own. As the summer progresses and their intimacy grows, their pasts begin to crawl to the surface.
“We’re thrilled to be working on Matt’s debut feature ‘Cicada.’ It’s a thrilling and promising new voice, one that fits our family of auteurs,” said Marcus Hu of Strand Releasing.
The film also stars Cobie Smulders,...
- 6/4/2021
- by Elsa Keslassy
- Variety Film + TV
Strand Releasing has acquired North American rights to Christopher Makoto Yogi’s “I Was a Simple Man,” which stars Constance Wu and had its world premiere at this year’s Sundance film festival.
A lyrical ghost story set in the lush Hawaiian countryside, the film follows Masao (Steve Iwamoto) whose life is slowly fading away because of a terminal illness. As his estranged family members struggle to care for him, Masao is visited by his deceased wife Grace (Wu) and is forced to confront the decisions of his past.
Spanning multiple generations, “I Was a Simple Man” features a rich ensemble of Asian American and Native Hawaiian actors, including Iwamoto, Wu, Kanoa Goo, Tim Chiou and Chanel Akiko Hirai. The film participated in the Sundance Directors and Screenwriters Labs, as well as Sundance Catalyst.
“I was lucky enough to be introduced to Chris and this project at the Sundance Labs,...
A lyrical ghost story set in the lush Hawaiian countryside, the film follows Masao (Steve Iwamoto) whose life is slowly fading away because of a terminal illness. As his estranged family members struggle to care for him, Masao is visited by his deceased wife Grace (Wu) and is forced to confront the decisions of his past.
Spanning multiple generations, “I Was a Simple Man” features a rich ensemble of Asian American and Native Hawaiian actors, including Iwamoto, Wu, Kanoa Goo, Tim Chiou and Chanel Akiko Hirai. The film participated in the Sundance Directors and Screenwriters Labs, as well as Sundance Catalyst.
“I was lucky enough to be introduced to Chris and this project at the Sundance Labs,...
- 5/11/2021
- by Elsa Keslassy
- Variety Film + TV
Strand Releasing has acquired all U.S. rights to Oscar-nominated Cambodian director Rithy Panh’s “Irradiated,” which world premiered at the Berlin Film Festival and won best documentary. The film is represented in international markets by Playtime.
Through “Irradiated,” Panh sheds light on the human horrors perpetrated by the Khmer Rouge regime which he experienced during his childhood. Narrated by Rebecca Marder and André Wilms (“Le Havre”), the film brings together black-and-white archival war footage across a tryptic of panels juxtaposing images of war and suffering across the 20th century and around the world. The cinematic documentary is scored by Panh’s longtime collaborator Marc Marder.
“What it means to be a survivor cannot be put into words. To live on, to make contact with this irradiation, for which there may be no cause, no knowledge, but from which there is no protection,” said Panh about his film. “Evil radiates.
Through “Irradiated,” Panh sheds light on the human horrors perpetrated by the Khmer Rouge regime which he experienced during his childhood. Narrated by Rebecca Marder and André Wilms (“Le Havre”), the film brings together black-and-white archival war footage across a tryptic of panels juxtaposing images of war and suffering across the 20th century and around the world. The cinematic documentary is scored by Panh’s longtime collaborator Marc Marder.
“What it means to be a survivor cannot be put into words. To live on, to make contact with this irradiation, for which there may be no cause, no knowledge, but from which there is no protection,” said Panh about his film. “Evil radiates.
- 4/22/2021
- by Elsa Keslassy
- Variety Film + TV
“Bad Tales,” a drama written and directed by Damiano and Fabio D’Innocenzo, has been acquired by Strand Releasing for North American distribution. Sold by The Match Factory, the movie world premiered in competition at Berlin in 2019 and won the Silver Bear for best screenplay.
The drama unfolds in the suburbs of Rome and is set over the course of a fateful summer. The film revolves around a seemingly normal family in which the devious deeds of fathers, and the passivity of mothers create a bad influence for their children.
Since opening in Berlin, “Bad Tales” went on to play at a flurry of festivals, notably Karlovy Vary, Zurich, BFI London and El Gouna festivals.
“‘Bad Tales’ is one of the brightest films to come out of the Berlin Film Festival, and the brother’s unique vision definitely makes them auteurs that fit perfectly in line with Strand’s eclectic library,...
The drama unfolds in the suburbs of Rome and is set over the course of a fateful summer. The film revolves around a seemingly normal family in which the devious deeds of fathers, and the passivity of mothers create a bad influence for their children.
Since opening in Berlin, “Bad Tales” went on to play at a flurry of festivals, notably Karlovy Vary, Zurich, BFI London and El Gouna festivals.
“‘Bad Tales’ is one of the brightest films to come out of the Berlin Film Festival, and the brother’s unique vision definitely makes them auteurs that fit perfectly in line with Strand’s eclectic library,...
- 1/14/2021
- by Elsa Keslassy
- Variety Film + TV
Strand Releasing has acquired all North American rights to Anthony Chen’s “Wet Season,” which represents Singapore in the Oscar race for best international feature film.
The movie world premiered in the Platform section at the Toronto International Film Festival, and is being represented in international markets by Memento Films International.
Penned and directed by Chen, “Wet Season” revolves around a Chinese language teacher whose marriage and school life are falling apart because she’s unable to bear a child. An unlikely friendship with a student helps her reaffirm her identity as a woman.
“Wet Season” marks Chen’s sophomore outing. His feature debut, “Ilo Ilo,” world premiered at Cannes in 2013 and earned him the prestigious Camera d’Or award for best first film. “Ilo Ilo” went on to win more than 40 awards around the world, including the Sutherland Award at BFI London Film Festival, and four Golden Horse Awards...
The movie world premiered in the Platform section at the Toronto International Film Festival, and is being represented in international markets by Memento Films International.
Penned and directed by Chen, “Wet Season” revolves around a Chinese language teacher whose marriage and school life are falling apart because she’s unable to bear a child. An unlikely friendship with a student helps her reaffirm her identity as a woman.
“Wet Season” marks Chen’s sophomore outing. His feature debut, “Ilo Ilo,” world premiered at Cannes in 2013 and earned him the prestigious Camera d’Or award for best first film. “Ilo Ilo” went on to win more than 40 awards around the world, including the Sutherland Award at BFI London Film Festival, and four Golden Horse Awards...
- 12/21/2020
- by Elsa Keslassy
- Variety Film + TV
Strand Releasing has acquired all North American rights to Agnieszka Holland’s critically acclaimed “Charlatan” from Berlin-based company Films Boutique.
“Charlatan” competed at the Berlin Film Festival this year in the Special Gala section, and was most recently selected at Telluride. “Charlatan” represents Czech Republic in the Oscar race for the best international feature film.
“Charlatan” is based on the true story of Czech healer Jan Mikolášek, who dedicated his life to treating the sick using medicinal plants. Holland has described “Charlatan” as a story about Mikolášek’s “moral fall and of his constant fight with the darkness inside him.”
“It is the story of the mystery of a man, of the mystery of his special gift, of the prize he was ready to pay for it; the story of the paradox of strength and weakness, of love and hate,” said Holland.
“We’re thrilled to be representing this film...
“Charlatan” competed at the Berlin Film Festival this year in the Special Gala section, and was most recently selected at Telluride. “Charlatan” represents Czech Republic in the Oscar race for the best international feature film.
“Charlatan” is based on the true story of Czech healer Jan Mikolášek, who dedicated his life to treating the sick using medicinal plants. Holland has described “Charlatan” as a story about Mikolášek’s “moral fall and of his constant fight with the darkness inside him.”
“It is the story of the mystery of a man, of the mystery of his special gift, of the prize he was ready to pay for it; the story of the paradox of strength and weakness, of love and hate,” said Holland.
“We’re thrilled to be representing this film...
- 12/10/2020
- by Elsa Keslassy
- Variety Film + TV
Strand Releasing has acquired U.S. distribution rights to Majid Majidi’s “Sun Children,” which competed at Venice and represents Iran in the international feature film race at the 2021 Academy Awards.
Represented in international markets by Hengameh Panahi’s Celluloid Dreams, “Sun Children” has been critically acclaimed in the festival circuit, and its young leading actor Ruhollah Zamani won Venice’s Marcello Mastroianni Award for best young actor. The movie went on to win the best feature film award at the Doha Ajyal Film Festival. The film was produced by Amir Banan and Majid Majidi.
“Sun Children” tells the story of 12-year-old Ali and his three friends who work hard together to survive and support their families, doing small jobs in a garage and committing petty crimes to make fast cash. In a turn of events that seems miraculous, Ali is entrusted to find hidden treasure underground, but in order...
Represented in international markets by Hengameh Panahi’s Celluloid Dreams, “Sun Children” has been critically acclaimed in the festival circuit, and its young leading actor Ruhollah Zamani won Venice’s Marcello Mastroianni Award for best young actor. The movie went on to win the best feature film award at the Doha Ajyal Film Festival. The film was produced by Amir Banan and Majid Majidi.
“Sun Children” tells the story of 12-year-old Ali and his three friends who work hard together to survive and support their families, doing small jobs in a garage and committing petty crimes to make fast cash. In a turn of events that seems miraculous, Ali is entrusted to find hidden treasure underground, but in order...
- 12/4/2020
- by Elsa Keslassy
- Variety Film + TV
The Academy has chosen its film scholars this year and is not letting the coronavirus pandemic get in the way of one of AMPAS’ most important programs, at least in terms of serious studies relating to the film industry. Fittingly, considering Oscar’s drive toward greater diversity, both projects involve issues revolving around movies and their depictions of the Black community.
Racquel Gates and Rebecca Prime have been chosen as 2020 Academy Film Scholars by the Academy of Motion Picture Arts and Sciences. Their respective book projects, Hollywood Style and the Invention of Blackness and Uptight!: Race, Revolution, and the Struggle to Make the Most Dangerous Film of 1968, explore in depth the topic of race in Hollywood. The Academy’s Educational Grants Committee will award Gates and Prime $25,000 each on the basis of their proposals.
Established in 1999, the Academy Film Scholars program is designed to support significant new works of film scholarship.
Racquel Gates and Rebecca Prime have been chosen as 2020 Academy Film Scholars by the Academy of Motion Picture Arts and Sciences. Their respective book projects, Hollywood Style and the Invention of Blackness and Uptight!: Race, Revolution, and the Struggle to Make the Most Dangerous Film of 1968, explore in depth the topic of race in Hollywood. The Academy’s Educational Grants Committee will award Gates and Prime $25,000 each on the basis of their proposals.
Established in 1999, the Academy Film Scholars program is designed to support significant new works of film scholarship.
- 7/30/2020
- by Pete Hammond
- Deadline Film + TV
Strand Releasing has acquired North American rights to Ray Yeung’s “Twilight’s Kiss” (“Suk Suk”) which world premiered at Busan and played at this year’s Berlin Film Festival.
Sold by Films Boutique, “Twilight’s Kiss” tells the story of two closeted married men in their twilight years, Pak, a 70 year-old taxi driver who refuses to retire, and Hoi, a 65 year-old retired single father. Despite years of societal and personal pressure, they are proud of the families they have created through hard work and determination. Yet, when they meet, something that had been suppressed for so many years is unleashed in them.
Strand Releasing, whose roster is packed with renowned world auteurs, previously handled Yeung’s film “Front Cover” with Jake Choi (“Single Parents”). “The delicate and beautiful story of two older men finding love later in life is a refreshing and realistic story and although uniquely Asian, is universal,...
Sold by Films Boutique, “Twilight’s Kiss” tells the story of two closeted married men in their twilight years, Pak, a 70 year-old taxi driver who refuses to retire, and Hoi, a 65 year-old retired single father. Despite years of societal and personal pressure, they are proud of the families they have created through hard work and determination. Yet, when they meet, something that had been suppressed for so many years is unleashed in them.
Strand Releasing, whose roster is packed with renowned world auteurs, previously handled Yeung’s film “Front Cover” with Jake Choi (“Single Parents”). “The delicate and beautiful story of two older men finding love later in life is a refreshing and realistic story and although uniquely Asian, is universal,...
- 6/4/2020
- by Elsa Keslassy
- Variety Film + TV
Strand Releasing has acquired North American rights to Catherine Gund’s documentary “Aggie,” about her mother Agnes “Aggie” Gund, the high-profile art collector and philanthropist.
“Aggie,” which premiered at this year’s Sundance Film Festival, explores the issues of art, race and justice. The elder Gund sold Roy Lichtenstein’s “Masterpiece” in 2017 to launch the $100 million Art for Justice Fund to end mass incarceration. Strand plans for a fall release starting with a launch at Film Forum in New York, followed by a nationwide opening.
The film features “Aggie” in conversation with artists, family and friends including Glenn Ligon, Darren Walker, Teresita Fernandez, Abigail Disney, Rajendra Roy, John Waters and Thelma Golden surrounded by art in her home by artists such as Jasper Johns, Louise Bourgeois, Julie Mehretu, Mark Rothko, Ellsworth Kelly and Kara Walker. The film attempts to focus on the power of art to transform consciousness and inspire social change.
“Aggie,” which premiered at this year’s Sundance Film Festival, explores the issues of art, race and justice. The elder Gund sold Roy Lichtenstein’s “Masterpiece” in 2017 to launch the $100 million Art for Justice Fund to end mass incarceration. Strand plans for a fall release starting with a launch at Film Forum in New York, followed by a nationwide opening.
The film features “Aggie” in conversation with artists, family and friends including Glenn Ligon, Darren Walker, Teresita Fernandez, Abigail Disney, Rajendra Roy, John Waters and Thelma Golden surrounded by art in her home by artists such as Jasper Johns, Louise Bourgeois, Julie Mehretu, Mark Rothko, Ellsworth Kelly and Kara Walker. The film attempts to focus on the power of art to transform consciousness and inspire social change.
- 5/14/2020
- by Dave McNary
- Variety Film + TV
The Academy of Motion Picture Arts and Sciences has announced the recipients of its 2020 FilmCraft and FilmWatch grants.
A total of $2.5 million has been allocated to 96 organization, including recipients of the emergency grant funds announced last month in response to the Covid-19 pandemic.
“The Academy’s first priority remains to help those in our film community most impacted by the current global crisis. Our contribution of $2 million in emergency funds to the Academy Foundation, along with the grants we bestow on an annual basis, will surely benefit struggling organizations so they may continue to encourage diverse storytelling and enrich cinema and its artists,” Searchlight Pictures’ Nancy Utley, an Academy governor and the Education and Outreach Committee chair, said in a statement.
“The Academy’s Grants committee is honored to continue to provide much-needed support to these 96 worthy organizations — their impact on the world of film is truly immeasurable,” grants committee chair Marcus Hu added.
A total of $2.5 million has been allocated to 96 organization, including recipients of the emergency grant funds announced last month in response to the Covid-19 pandemic.
“The Academy’s first priority remains to help those in our film community most impacted by the current global crisis. Our contribution of $2 million in emergency funds to the Academy Foundation, along with the grants we bestow on an annual basis, will surely benefit struggling organizations so they may continue to encourage diverse storytelling and enrich cinema and its artists,” Searchlight Pictures’ Nancy Utley, an Academy governor and the Education and Outreach Committee chair, said in a statement.
“The Academy’s Grants committee is honored to continue to provide much-needed support to these 96 worthy organizations — their impact on the world of film is truly immeasurable,” grants committee chair Marcus Hu added.
- 5/12/2020
- by Marc Malkin
- Variety Film + TV
Strand Releasing has scooped all North American rights to Lou Ye’s Second World War-set spy thriller “Saturday Fiction” from Wild Bunch. The film world premiered in competition at Venice last year and played at the New York Film Festival.
“Saturday Fiction” stars Gong Li as a famous actress who has returned to Japanese-occupied Shanghai to act in a play directed by and co-starring her old flame. But it turns out she has ulterior motives, functioning as a double agent gathering intelligence for the Allies leading up to Japan’s upcoming attack on Pearl Harbor.
Written by Ma Yingli (“Summer Palace”), the lavishly shot black-and-white movie also stars Mark Chao, Pascal Greggory and Tom Wlaschiha.
Strand Releasing, one of the key purveyors of upscale foreign-language cinema in the U.S., previously distributed Ye’s critically-acclaimed 2000 drama “Suzhou River,” as well as “Spring Fever,” which had won the screenplay award at...
“Saturday Fiction” stars Gong Li as a famous actress who has returned to Japanese-occupied Shanghai to act in a play directed by and co-starring her old flame. But it turns out she has ulterior motives, functioning as a double agent gathering intelligence for the Allies leading up to Japan’s upcoming attack on Pearl Harbor.
Written by Ma Yingli (“Summer Palace”), the lavishly shot black-and-white movie also stars Mark Chao, Pascal Greggory and Tom Wlaschiha.
Strand Releasing, one of the key purveyors of upscale foreign-language cinema in the U.S., previously distributed Ye’s critically-acclaimed 2000 drama “Suzhou River,” as well as “Spring Fever,” which had won the screenplay award at...
- 5/5/2020
- by Elsa Keslassy
- Variety Film + TV
Strand Releasing has acquired all North American rights to “Monsoon,” a drama in the English and Vietnamese language that stars Henry Golding, the distributor announced Thursday.
“Monsoon” comes from director Hong Khaou and Protagonist Pictures and made its world premiere at the Karlovy Vary International Film Festival last June. Strand Releasing is planning a fall release for the film. Peccadillo will release the film in the UK later this year.
“Monsoon” stars Golding as Kit, a young British man of Vietnamese descent who returns to Saigon to scatter his mother’s ashes. Along the journey, Kit meets estranged family members who help him recall his past, and he later falls for an American man named Lewis (Parker Sawyers), whose father fought in the Vietnam War.
Also Read: 'Snake Eyes': Ursula Corbero to Play Baroness in 'GI Joe' Movie Spinoff (Exclusive)
“We’re so thrilled to be working with Protagonist Pictures again,...
“Monsoon” comes from director Hong Khaou and Protagonist Pictures and made its world premiere at the Karlovy Vary International Film Festival last June. Strand Releasing is planning a fall release for the film. Peccadillo will release the film in the UK later this year.
“Monsoon” stars Golding as Kit, a young British man of Vietnamese descent who returns to Saigon to scatter his mother’s ashes. Along the journey, Kit meets estranged family members who help him recall his past, and he later falls for an American man named Lewis (Parker Sawyers), whose father fought in the Vietnam War.
Also Read: 'Snake Eyes': Ursula Corbero to Play Baroness in 'GI Joe' Movie Spinoff (Exclusive)
“We’re so thrilled to be working with Protagonist Pictures again,...
- 4/9/2020
- by Brian Welk
- The Wrap
Strand Releasing has acquired all North American rights to British-Cambodian filmmaker Hong Khaou’s “Monsoon,” a drama headlined by “Crazy Rich Asians” star Henry Golding and Parker Sawyers.
Sold by Protagonist Pictures, “Monsoon” had its world premiere at Karlovy Vary last year and stars Golding as Kit, a young British man of Vietnamese decent who returns to Saigon to scatter his mother’s ashes. Along the journey, Kit meets estranged family members, and falls for an American man Lewis (Sawyers), whose father fought in the Vietnam War.
“Monsoon” marks Khaou’s second feature, following his critically acclaimed directorial debut “Lifting” with Ben Whishaw which was also distributed by Strand Releasing in the U.S.
“We’re so thrilled to be working with Protagonist Pictures again, and especially to follow up with Hong’s latest effort which is such a beautifully crafted and personal film for Hong,” said Marcus Hu, co-president of Strand Releasing.
Sold by Protagonist Pictures, “Monsoon” had its world premiere at Karlovy Vary last year and stars Golding as Kit, a young British man of Vietnamese decent who returns to Saigon to scatter his mother’s ashes. Along the journey, Kit meets estranged family members, and falls for an American man Lewis (Sawyers), whose father fought in the Vietnam War.
“Monsoon” marks Khaou’s second feature, following his critically acclaimed directorial debut “Lifting” with Ben Whishaw which was also distributed by Strand Releasing in the U.S.
“We’re so thrilled to be working with Protagonist Pictures again, and especially to follow up with Hong’s latest effort which is such a beautifully crafted and personal film for Hong,” said Marcus Hu, co-president of Strand Releasing.
- 4/9/2020
- by Elsa Keslassy
- Variety Film + TV
Strand Releasing has acquired all U.S. rights to Maryam Touzani’s critically acclaimed feature debut, “Adam,” which had its world premiere at Cannes in Un Certain Regard.
“Adam” is also the official entry for Morocco in the international feature film race at the Oscars. Represented in international markets by Berlin-based Films Boutique, “Adam” has been on a laureled path since its Cannes debut. It won the New Director’s Prize Roger Ebert Award at Chicago and the best first feature at the Philadelphia Film Festival, among other prizes. It also played at big international festivals such as Toronto and Karlovy Vary and will next screen at the AFI Fest.
The film stars Lubna Azabal as a woman who runs a modest local bakery from her home in Casablanca, where she lives alone with her 8-year-old daughter. Their lives are transformed by the arrival of a young pregnant woman searching for work,...
“Adam” is also the official entry for Morocco in the international feature film race at the Oscars. Represented in international markets by Berlin-based Films Boutique, “Adam” has been on a laureled path since its Cannes debut. It won the New Director’s Prize Roger Ebert Award at Chicago and the best first feature at the Philadelphia Film Festival, among other prizes. It also played at big international festivals such as Toronto and Karlovy Vary and will next screen at the AFI Fest.
The film stars Lubna Azabal as a woman who runs a modest local bakery from her home in Casablanca, where she lives alone with her 8-year-old daughter. Their lives are transformed by the arrival of a young pregnant woman searching for work,...
- 11/8/2019
- by Elsa Keslassy
- Variety Film + TV
Strand Releasing has acquired all North American rights to Ina Weisse’s “The Audition,” the tense psychological drama which world premiered at Toronto and went on to win the Silver Shell Award (for Nina Hoss) at San Sebastian.
Represented in international markets by Les Films du Losange, the film stars Hoss as Anna Bronsky, an obsessive violin teacher at a high school focused on honing young talent. When Anna finds a young student, Alexander, she sets off to create a model of herself but her dedication gradually creates a tense situation and affects her personal life with her husband and son.
“‘The Audition’ features such a powerful performance from Hoss that is heartbreaking, vulnerable and unforgettable, we are proud to have the film for North America” said Strand Releasing’s Jon Gerrans who negotiated the deal with Alice Lesort of Les Films du Losange. Strand plans to release “The Audition” next Spring or Summer.
Represented in international markets by Les Films du Losange, the film stars Hoss as Anna Bronsky, an obsessive violin teacher at a high school focused on honing young talent. When Anna finds a young student, Alexander, she sets off to create a model of herself but her dedication gradually creates a tense situation and affects her personal life with her husband and son.
“‘The Audition’ features such a powerful performance from Hoss that is heartbreaking, vulnerable and unforgettable, we are proud to have the film for North America” said Strand Releasing’s Jon Gerrans who negotiated the deal with Alice Lesort of Les Films du Losange. Strand plans to release “The Audition” next Spring or Summer.
- 10/16/2019
- by Elsa Keslassy
- Variety Film + TV
Five promising writers have been selected as winners of the 2019 Academy Nicholl Fellowships in Screenwriting competition, out of a total of 7,302 scripts and 12 finalists. The fellows will each receive a generous $35,000 prize, the first installment of which will be distributed at the Academy Nicholl Fellowships in Screenwriting Awards Presentation & Live Read on Thursday, November 7, 2019, at the Samuel Goldwyn Theater in Beverly Hills. For the seventh consecutive year, an ensemble of notable actors will read selected scenes from the winning scripts.
The 2019 winners are (listed alphabetically by author): Aaron Chung, “Princess Vietnam”; Karen McDermott, “Lullabies of La Jaula”; Renee Pillai, “Boy with Kite”; Sean Malcolm, “Mother”; and Walker McKnight, “Street Rat Allie Punches Her Ticket.”
Each writer comes from a unique background: Chung is a film intern at Entertainment One, with a master’s in screenwriting; McDermott is an attorney and English professor, according to her Twitter bio; and McKnight is a novelist,...
The 2019 winners are (listed alphabetically by author): Aaron Chung, “Princess Vietnam”; Karen McDermott, “Lullabies of La Jaula”; Renee Pillai, “Boy with Kite”; Sean Malcolm, “Mother”; and Walker McKnight, “Street Rat Allie Punches Her Ticket.”
Each writer comes from a unique background: Chung is a film intern at Entertainment One, with a master’s in screenwriting; McDermott is an attorney and English professor, according to her Twitter bio; and McKnight is a novelist,...
- 10/4/2019
- by Ryan Lattanzio
- Indiewire
30 Major Filmmakers Salute Strand Releasing’s 30 Years of Arthouse Distribution With New Short Films
For three decades, Strand Releasing has remained at the cutting-edge of arthouse distribution in America. Now, many of those filmmakers are returning the favor. For its 30th anniversary this fall, the company has commissioned 30 new short films shot on iPhones directed by world-class filmmakers. Entitled “30/30 Vision: 3 Decades of Strand Releasing,” the shorts will screen at several venues around the country this fall. The selection of shorts was produced by filmmaker Connor Jessup (“Simon’s Forest”), who also contributed to the selection.
Each short runs around one minute. Contributors include auteurs such as John Waters, Apichatpong Weerasethakul, and Catherine Breillat, in addition to emerging filmmakers like Lulu Wang (“The Farewell”), Andrew Ahn (“Driveways”), and Brady Corbet (“Vox Lux”). Two shorts from the project, from filmmakers Karim Ainouz and Fatih Akin, can be viewed here.
Strand Releasing was founded in 1989 by partners Jon Gerrans, Marcus Hu, and Mike Thomas. The company took...
Each short runs around one minute. Contributors include auteurs such as John Waters, Apichatpong Weerasethakul, and Catherine Breillat, in addition to emerging filmmakers like Lulu Wang (“The Farewell”), Andrew Ahn (“Driveways”), and Brady Corbet (“Vox Lux”). Two shorts from the project, from filmmakers Karim Ainouz and Fatih Akin, can be viewed here.
Strand Releasing was founded in 1989 by partners Jon Gerrans, Marcus Hu, and Mike Thomas. The company took...
- 9/18/2019
- by Eric Kohn
- Indiewire
Exclusive: Strand Releasing has acquired the American Rights to James Sweeney’s feature film debut Straight Up which made its premiere earlier this year at Frameline in San Francisco and screened at Outfest in Los Angeles. Strand Releasing is slating a U.S. theatrical release in the spring.
Written, directed and starring Sweeney, the comedy follows Todd (Sweeney), a persnickety half-virgin diagnosed with Ocd who thinks maybe he was socially conditioned to be gay. Rory (How To Get Away With Murder‘s Katie Findlay) is a whip-smart aspiring actress with her own set of insecurities, sexual and otherwise. Over time, Rory’s stagnant career and Todd’s self-doubt begins to dismantle their odd couple routine, despite their unwillingness to let each other go.
“We’re thrilled to have James’ singular and humorous vision, his knack for snappy dialogue and smart visuals are inspired by period screwball comedies and create such...
Written, directed and starring Sweeney, the comedy follows Todd (Sweeney), a persnickety half-virgin diagnosed with Ocd who thinks maybe he was socially conditioned to be gay. Rory (How To Get Away With Murder‘s Katie Findlay) is a whip-smart aspiring actress with her own set of insecurities, sexual and otherwise. Over time, Rory’s stagnant career and Todd’s self-doubt begins to dismantle their odd couple routine, despite their unwillingness to let each other go.
“We’re thrilled to have James’ singular and humorous vision, his knack for snappy dialogue and smart visuals are inspired by period screwball comedies and create such...
- 8/6/2019
- by Dino-Ray Ramos
- Deadline Film + TV
In today’s film news roundup, Cim Group sells Hollywood & Highland but retains the Dolby Theatre, “The Matrix” gets re-released and the comedy “Straight Up” gets bought.
Property Sale
Cim Group has sold the Hollywood & Highland retail-entertainment center to Gaw Capital and Djm while retaining ownership of the Dolby Theatre, site of the Academy Awards.
Cim acquired the Hollywood & Highland complex in 2004, three years after it debuted. It also signed a 20-year contract in 2012 with the Academy of Motion Picture Arts & Sciences to maintain the annual Academy Awards at the Dolby and recently made a programming deal with the Hollywood Pantages Theatre to bring Broadway shows to the Dolby.
Gaw Captial and Djm said Monday that they plan to renovate Hollywood & Highland over the next 24 to 30 months. The deal does not include the adjacent Tcl Chinese Theatre, owned by Elie Samaha and a consortium of investors.
“The retail landscape has shifted,...
Property Sale
Cim Group has sold the Hollywood & Highland retail-entertainment center to Gaw Capital and Djm while retaining ownership of the Dolby Theatre, site of the Academy Awards.
Cim acquired the Hollywood & Highland complex in 2004, three years after it debuted. It also signed a 20-year contract in 2012 with the Academy of Motion Picture Arts & Sciences to maintain the annual Academy Awards at the Dolby and recently made a programming deal with the Hollywood Pantages Theatre to bring Broadway shows to the Dolby.
Gaw Captial and Djm said Monday that they plan to renovate Hollywood & Highland over the next 24 to 30 months. The deal does not include the adjacent Tcl Chinese Theatre, owned by Elie Samaha and a consortium of investors.
“The retail landscape has shifted,...
- 8/6/2019
- by Dave McNary
- Variety Film + TV
Allyson Nadia Field and Mindy Johnson have been named 2019 Academy Film Scholars by the Academy of Motion Picture Arts and Sciences. Their respective book projects explore the impact of minstrelsy on early American film and the accomplishments of women in the formation of early animation.
The Academy’s Educational Grants Committee will award Field and Johnson $25,000 each on the basis of their proposals.
“Field and Johnson’s research will shed new light on the history of the film industry through two distinct lenses,” said Marcus Hu, chair of the Academy’s Grants Committee. “This committee is honored to support them, and we look forward to seeing how their work impacts our historical understanding and appreciation of motion pictures for generations to come.”
Field is an associate professor of Cinema and Media Studies at the University of Chicago. Her book, Minstrelsy-Vaudeville-Cinema: American Popular Culture and Racialized Performance in Early Film, reassesses...
The Academy’s Educational Grants Committee will award Field and Johnson $25,000 each on the basis of their proposals.
“Field and Johnson’s research will shed new light on the history of the film industry through two distinct lenses,” said Marcus Hu, chair of the Academy’s Grants Committee. “This committee is honored to support them, and we look forward to seeing how their work impacts our historical understanding and appreciation of motion pictures for generations to come.”
Field is an associate professor of Cinema and Media Studies at the University of Chicago. Her book, Minstrelsy-Vaudeville-Cinema: American Popular Culture and Racialized Performance in Early Film, reassesses...
- 5/30/2019
- by Bruce Haring
- Deadline Film + TV
San Diego, CA – November 11, 2018 –
Winners of the 19th Annual San Diego Asian Film Festival (Sdaff) were announced at a star-studded gala awards ceremony on Saturday night, November 10 at the Port Pavillion on Broadway Pier. More than 500 people attended, as the festival announced the following winners:
● Lifetime Achievement Award: Marcus Hu
● Community Legacy Award: Tony Olaes
● George C. Lin Emerging Filmmaker Award: Christopher Makoto Yogi, director of August At Akiko’S
● Grand Jury Prize: June, directed by Huay-Bing Law
● Special Jury Award: Origin Story, directed by Kulap Vilaysack
● Best Narrative Feature: Bitter Melon, directed by H.P. Mendoza
● Best Documentary Feature: Blowin’ Up, directed by Stephanie Wang-Breal
● Best Narrative Short: First Generation, directed by Jeannie Nguyen ● Best Documentary Short: Nai Nai, directed by Jeannie Nguyen
● Best Animated Short: Yoko, directed by Wesley Fuh
The Sdaff Awards Gala is part of the 19th Annual San Diego Asian Film Festival, taking place at the...
Winners of the 19th Annual San Diego Asian Film Festival (Sdaff) were announced at a star-studded gala awards ceremony on Saturday night, November 10 at the Port Pavillion on Broadway Pier. More than 500 people attended, as the festival announced the following winners:
● Lifetime Achievement Award: Marcus Hu
● Community Legacy Award: Tony Olaes
● George C. Lin Emerging Filmmaker Award: Christopher Makoto Yogi, director of August At Akiko’S
● Grand Jury Prize: June, directed by Huay-Bing Law
● Special Jury Award: Origin Story, directed by Kulap Vilaysack
● Best Narrative Feature: Bitter Melon, directed by H.P. Mendoza
● Best Documentary Feature: Blowin’ Up, directed by Stephanie Wang-Breal
● Best Narrative Short: First Generation, directed by Jeannie Nguyen ● Best Documentary Short: Nai Nai, directed by Jeannie Nguyen
● Best Animated Short: Yoko, directed by Wesley Fuh
The Sdaff Awards Gala is part of the 19th Annual San Diego Asian Film Festival, taking place at the...
- 11/14/2018
- by Rouven Linnarz
- AsianMoviePulse
Distributor earmarks autumn release.
In a deal with MK2 Films Stand Releasing has acquired all Us rights to Christophe Honoré’s Cannes competition selection Sorry Angel.
The drama from Les Films Pelleas takes place in Paris in 1993 as a young writer and single father embarks on whirlwind romances and trysts against the backdrop of the AIDS crisis.
Pierre Deladonchamps, Vincent Lacoste, Denis Podalydes, Adèle Wismes, and Luca Malinowskistar.
Strand has earmarked an autumn release. Jon Gerrans of Strand Releasing and Fionnuala Jamison of MK2 Films brokered the deal.
”We’re delighted that this very touching love story set in the early nineties,...
In a deal with MK2 Films Stand Releasing has acquired all Us rights to Christophe Honoré’s Cannes competition selection Sorry Angel.
The drama from Les Films Pelleas takes place in Paris in 1993 as a young writer and single father embarks on whirlwind romances and trysts against the backdrop of the AIDS crisis.
Pierre Deladonchamps, Vincent Lacoste, Denis Podalydes, Adèle Wismes, and Luca Malinowskistar.
Strand has earmarked an autumn release. Jon Gerrans of Strand Releasing and Fionnuala Jamison of MK2 Films brokered the deal.
”We’re delighted that this very touching love story set in the early nineties,...
- 6/14/2018
- by Jeremy Kay
- ScreenDaily
Strand Releasing has acquired U.S. rights to Christophe Honore’s “Sorry Angel” which world premiered in competition at Cannes Film Festival.
Sold by MK2, “Sorry Angel” takes place in Paris, in 1993, and follows Jacques, a renown writer and single father in his 30’s who is desperately trying to maintain a sense of normalcy against the backdrop of the AIDS crisis and unexpectedly falls in love with an enthusiastic aspiring writer in his early 20s.
The film is headlined by a strong French cast, including Pierre Deladonchamps (“Stranger by the Lake”), Vincent Lacoste (“Lolo”) and Denis Podalydes (“Mr & Mme Adelman”).
Speaking to Variety at Cannes, Honoré said he wanted, through the film, to “explore (his) memories of being in my 20s in the ’90s.” “AIDS was part of our lives (…) and the fear of death was looming over love and sex relationships,” said Honoré.
“We’re delighted that this very...
Sold by MK2, “Sorry Angel” takes place in Paris, in 1993, and follows Jacques, a renown writer and single father in his 30’s who is desperately trying to maintain a sense of normalcy against the backdrop of the AIDS crisis and unexpectedly falls in love with an enthusiastic aspiring writer in his early 20s.
The film is headlined by a strong French cast, including Pierre Deladonchamps (“Stranger by the Lake”), Vincent Lacoste (“Lolo”) and Denis Podalydes (“Mr & Mme Adelman”).
Speaking to Variety at Cannes, Honoré said he wanted, through the film, to “explore (his) memories of being in my 20s in the ’90s.” “AIDS was part of our lives (…) and the fear of death was looming over love and sex relationships,” said Honoré.
“We’re delighted that this very...
- 6/14/2018
- by Elsa Keslassy
- Variety Film + TV
Strand Releasing has acquired all North American rights to Camille Vidal-Naquet’s feature debut
“Sauvage” which world premiered at Cannes’s Critics Week.
Felix Maritaud, who stars in the film as a 22-year old gay male prostitute in free fall, won the best actor prize at Critics’ Week. Maritaud previously starred in Robin Campillo’s Cannes’s Grand Jury prize-winning “(Bpm) Beats Per Minute).”
Besides exploring the world of male prostitution, “Sauvage” also tells the story of an unrequited love between Maritaud and a fellow hustler.
“We’re thrilled to be working again with Pyramide and to have this amazing discovery by a first time feature filmmaker is a revelation. Both director and actor make this such an stunning film that best reflects the kinds of films that we strive to acquire and bring to American audiences,” said Strand Releasing’s topper Marcus Hu who negotiated the deal along with...
“Sauvage” which world premiered at Cannes’s Critics Week.
Felix Maritaud, who stars in the film as a 22-year old gay male prostitute in free fall, won the best actor prize at Critics’ Week. Maritaud previously starred in Robin Campillo’s Cannes’s Grand Jury prize-winning “(Bpm) Beats Per Minute).”
Besides exploring the world of male prostitution, “Sauvage” also tells the story of an unrequited love between Maritaud and a fellow hustler.
“We’re thrilled to be working again with Pyramide and to have this amazing discovery by a first time feature filmmaker is a revelation. Both director and actor make this such an stunning film that best reflects the kinds of films that we strive to acquire and bring to American audiences,” said Strand Releasing’s topper Marcus Hu who negotiated the deal along with...
- 5/18/2018
- by Elsa Keslassy
- Variety Film + TV
The film premiered at the BFI Flare Film Festival in London in March.
Strand Releasing has acquired all North American rights to Steve McLean’s Postcards From London, about a teenager who leaves his insular hometown for the bright lights of London where he falls in with a group of elite rent boys in the city’s legendary district of Soho.
The deal was brokered by Jon Gerrans at Strand Releasing and Rym Hachimi at Paris-based The Bureau Sales, which is handling world sales on the title.
Strand Releasing also released McLean’s previous film, Postcards From America which was...
Strand Releasing has acquired all North American rights to Steve McLean’s Postcards From London, about a teenager who leaves his insular hometown for the bright lights of London where he falls in with a group of elite rent boys in the city’s legendary district of Soho.
The deal was brokered by Jon Gerrans at Strand Releasing and Rym Hachimi at Paris-based The Bureau Sales, which is handling world sales on the title.
Strand Releasing also released McLean’s previous film, Postcards From America which was...
- 5/15/2018
- by Melanie Goodfellow
- ScreenDaily
Strand Releasing has acquired all North American rights to Laura Bispuri’s sophomore outing “Daughter of Mine,” which screened at the Tribeca Film Festival.
“Daughter of Mine” world premiered in competition at the Berlin Film Festival where it earned a warm critical reception. Strand Releasing bought the film from The Match Factory.
Written by Francesca Manieri and Bispuri, “Daughter of Mine” is set in Sardinia and follows a young adopted girl who is happy with her adoptive family, and is torn when her birth mother arrives one day. The girl must choose between two women, one who has lovingly raised her and the other, a dissolute, free-spirited woman. The film stars critically-acclaimed Italian actresses Alba Rohrwacher and Valeria Golino in the lead roles.
“We’re thrilled to distribute this delicate and beautiful film. Laura really showcases the talents of two amazing actresses in this finely tuned piece,” said Strand Releasing’s Jon Gerrans,...
“Daughter of Mine” world premiered in competition at the Berlin Film Festival where it earned a warm critical reception. Strand Releasing bought the film from The Match Factory.
Written by Francesca Manieri and Bispuri, “Daughter of Mine” is set in Sardinia and follows a young adopted girl who is happy with her adoptive family, and is torn when her birth mother arrives one day. The girl must choose between two women, one who has lovingly raised her and the other, a dissolute, free-spirited woman. The film stars critically-acclaimed Italian actresses Alba Rohrwacher and Valeria Golino in the lead roles.
“We’re thrilled to distribute this delicate and beautiful film. Laura really showcases the talents of two amazing actresses in this finely tuned piece,” said Strand Releasing’s Jon Gerrans,...
- 4/27/2018
- by Elsa Keslassy
- Variety Film + TV
A European Film Market panel on Saturday addressed the critical importance of film industry inclusiveness. The event, moderated by The Hollywood Reporter’s Scott Roxborough at Berliner Freiheit, began with McKinsey & Company’s Dame Vivian Hunt presenting a new report whose findings on the superior performance of diverse companies, she said, should convince execs who “don’t buy the social justice argument” that the diversity push is both an ethical and financially savvy one.
Hunt added that the media sector is a uniquely powerful driver of social and corporate change due to its “scale and global reach.” Strand Releasing’s Marcus Hu and...
Hunt added that the media sector is a uniquely powerful driver of social and corporate change due to its “scale and global reach.” Strand Releasing’s Marcus Hu and...
- 2/17/2018
- by Billy Gray
- The Hollywood Reporter - Movie News
With the abundance of labs and fellowships designed to give up-and-coming filmmakers a much-needed boost, the Nicholl Fellowship — launched in 1986 — still stands above the fray as being one of the most important opportunities for entry into the industry. Each of the winners receives a $35,000 prize with the understanding that they will complete a feature-length screenplay during their fellowship year. Just as important, their winning project instantly becomes a must-read by every agency in Hollywood.
The global competition has awarded 152 fellowships to date. Recent scripts by Nicholl Fellowship alumni include “The Glass Castle” and “Holy Rollers;” additional program veterans have gone on to receive plum writing assignments in film (Pixar’s “Cars 3”) and television (Netflix’s “The Punisher”).
Nine individuals and one screenwriting team were selected as 2017 fellowship recipients from more than 7,000 submissions; the winners are listed in bold:
Vigil Chime, “Bring Back Girl”
Sj Inwards, “Jellyfish Summer”
Max Lance and Jen Bailey,...
The global competition has awarded 152 fellowships to date. Recent scripts by Nicholl Fellowship alumni include “The Glass Castle” and “Holy Rollers;” additional program veterans have gone on to receive plum writing assignments in film (Pixar’s “Cars 3”) and television (Netflix’s “The Punisher”).
Nine individuals and one screenwriting team were selected as 2017 fellowship recipients from more than 7,000 submissions; the winners are listed in bold:
Vigil Chime, “Bring Back Girl”
Sj Inwards, “Jellyfish Summer”
Max Lance and Jen Bailey,...
- 10/3/2017
- by Chris O'Falt and Jenna Marotta
- Indiewire
The film had its world premiere at the Karlovy Vary International Film Festival.
Strand Releasing has acquired all North American rights to Israeli filmmaker Ofir Raul Graizer’s The Cakemaker from Films Boutique.
Jon Gerrans and Marcus Hu of Strand Releasing and Jean-Christophe Simon and Valeska Neu of Films Boutique negotiated the deal at this year’s German Films Previews at Karlovy Vary.
The Cakemaker centres on a German baker, Thomas, who falls in love with an Israeli businessman. When the businessman dies in an accident, Thomas travels from Germany to Israel to connect with the man’s wife and a bond is formed.
The film has also been acquired in Japan (Shin Nippon), Spain (Karma), Argentina, Chile, Paraguay and Uruguay (Mirada) and Hungary (Cirko Films).
The Cakemaker is an Israeli-German co-production, produced by Itai Kamir from Laila Films and Mathias Schwerbrock at Film Base Berlin.
“We’re thrilled to have this amazing film and hope that...
Strand Releasing has acquired all North American rights to Israeli filmmaker Ofir Raul Graizer’s The Cakemaker from Films Boutique.
Jon Gerrans and Marcus Hu of Strand Releasing and Jean-Christophe Simon and Valeska Neu of Films Boutique negotiated the deal at this year’s German Films Previews at Karlovy Vary.
The Cakemaker centres on a German baker, Thomas, who falls in love with an Israeli businessman. When the businessman dies in an accident, Thomas travels from Germany to Israel to connect with the man’s wife and a bond is formed.
The film has also been acquired in Japan (Shin Nippon), Spain (Karma), Argentina, Chile, Paraguay and Uruguay (Mirada) and Hungary (Cirko Films).
The Cakemaker is an Israeli-German co-production, produced by Itai Kamir from Laila Films and Mathias Schwerbrock at Film Base Berlin.
“We’re thrilled to have this amazing film and hope that...
- 7/7/2017
- ScreenDaily
The film world was deeply saddened when news broke today that Oscar-winning “The Silence of the Lambs” director Jonathan Demme had died in New York at the age of 73. Demme was a brilliant and versatile auteur, traversing genres with rarely a misfire. He is remembered by those who worked with him, and those whom his work inspired.
Tom Hanks, who won an Oscar for his portrayal of a lawyer dying of AIDS in Demme’s “Philadelphia,” wrote: “Jonathan taught us how big a heart a person can have, and how it will guide how we live and what we do for a living. He was the grandest of men.” Meryl Streep, who worked with Demme on 2015’s “Ricki and the Flash,” said: “A big hearted, big tent, compassionate man- in full embrace in his life of people in need- and of the potential of art, music, poetry and film to...
Tom Hanks, who won an Oscar for his portrayal of a lawyer dying of AIDS in Demme’s “Philadelphia,” wrote: “Jonathan taught us how big a heart a person can have, and how it will guide how we live and what we do for a living. He was the grandest of men.” Meryl Streep, who worked with Demme on 2015’s “Ricki and the Flash,” said: “A big hearted, big tent, compassionate man- in full embrace in his life of people in need- and of the potential of art, music, poetry and film to...
- 4/26/2017
- by Jude Dry
- Indiewire
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