Rolling off the Cannes Film Festival where it won several awards, Mohammad Rasoulof’s “The Seed of The Sacred Fig” has been acquired by a flurry of high profile distributors in major international territories.
Films Boutique, which represents the critically acclaimed political drama globally, has sold it to Lionsgate UK for the U.K. and Ireland; Gaga Corporation in Japan; Alamode in Germany and Austria; as well as Sharmill Films in Australia and New Zealand; Triart Film in Sweden.
The rest of the deals signed by Films Boutique off of Cannes include Camera Film in Denmark, Trigon in Switzerland, M2 Films in Poland, Green Narae in South Korea, New Cinema in Israel, Impacto Cine in Latin America, Film Europe in Czech Republic and Slovakia, Edko Films in Hong Kong, Cinemanse in Finland, Kino Pavasaris in the Baltic territories, McF Megacom in Former Yugoslavia, Bad Unicorn in Romania, Beta Film in...
Films Boutique, which represents the critically acclaimed political drama globally, has sold it to Lionsgate UK for the U.K. and Ireland; Gaga Corporation in Japan; Alamode in Germany and Austria; as well as Sharmill Films in Australia and New Zealand; Triart Film in Sweden.
The rest of the deals signed by Films Boutique off of Cannes include Camera Film in Denmark, Trigon in Switzerland, M2 Films in Poland, Green Narae in South Korea, New Cinema in Israel, Impacto Cine in Latin America, Film Europe in Czech Republic and Slovakia, Edko Films in Hong Kong, Cinemanse in Finland, Kino Pavasaris in the Baltic territories, McF Megacom in Former Yugoslavia, Bad Unicorn in Romania, Beta Film in...
- 5/29/2024
- by Elsa Keslassy
- Variety Film + TV
This afternoon, Iranian filmmaker Mohammad Rasoulof debuted his latest feature, The Seed of the Sacred Fig, in Competition here at the Cannes Film Festival to a nearly 15-minute standing ovation.
The fact that the filmmaker was in attendance is especially poignant after he fled his home country through what he described to Deadline as a “complicated” and “anguishing” journey across Europe to a safe house in Germany. Back in Iran, Rasoulof is wanted by authorities who have sentenced him to eight years in prison alongside a series of physical punishments including flogging for “signing statements and making films and documentaries.”
Emotions running high during ‘Sacred Fig’ ovation #Cannes2024 pic.twitter.com/KvaA2VU9Sk
— Deadline Hollywood (@Deadline) May 24, 2024
Rasoulof appealed his sentence, and during the lengthy legal process put together a plan to flee Iran, which he told us all together took 28 days on the road.
Best known for his forceful,...
The fact that the filmmaker was in attendance is especially poignant after he fled his home country through what he described to Deadline as a “complicated” and “anguishing” journey across Europe to a safe house in Germany. Back in Iran, Rasoulof is wanted by authorities who have sentenced him to eight years in prison alongside a series of physical punishments including flogging for “signing statements and making films and documentaries.”
Emotions running high during ‘Sacred Fig’ ovation #Cannes2024 pic.twitter.com/KvaA2VU9Sk
— Deadline Hollywood (@Deadline) May 24, 2024
Rasoulof appealed his sentence, and during the lengthy legal process put together a plan to flee Iran, which he told us all together took 28 days on the road.
Best known for his forceful,...
- 5/24/2024
- by Nancy Tartaglione
- Deadline Film + TV
Iranian filmmaker Mohammad Rasoulof is set to attend the Cannes premiere of his latest feature, The Seed Of The Sacred Fig, after receiving an eight-year prison sentence from Iranian authorities and fleeing his home country.
Speculation had been rife that the dissident director would attend the festival when the film receives its world premiere in Competition on Friday (May 24), having found asylum in Germany, but Cannes’ general delegate Thierry Fremaux has now confirmed his attendance.
“We are particularly touched to welcome [Rasoulof] here as a filmmaker,” Fremaux said in a statement to Agence France-Presse (Afp).
Our joy will be that of...
Speculation had been rife that the dissident director would attend the festival when the film receives its world premiere in Competition on Friday (May 24), having found asylum in Germany, but Cannes’ general delegate Thierry Fremaux has now confirmed his attendance.
“We are particularly touched to welcome [Rasoulof] here as a filmmaker,” Fremaux said in a statement to Agence France-Presse (Afp).
Our joy will be that of...
- 5/22/2024
- ScreenDaily
International filmmakers are calling for solidarity with Mohammad Rasoulof and persecuted filmmakers in Iran in an open letter, shared with Variety.
Rasoulof – about to screen his latest film “The Seed of the Sacred Fig” in Cannes’ main competition – was sentenced to imprisonment and torture by the Islamic Republic of Iran. He fled the country.
“We condemn the inhumane treatment of Rasoulof and numerous other independent artists in Iran, who are being severely punished, criminalized and silenced for exercising their artistic freedom,” it was stated in the letter, already signed by “Holy Spider” star Zar Amir Ebrahimi, Fatih Akin, Atom Egoyan, Ildiko Enyedi, Andrew Haigh, Agnieszka Holland, Laura Poitras, Sandra Hüller, Sean Baker, Payal Kapadia and Ariane Labed.
“We stand in full solidarity with Rasoulof’s demands and call upon the international film community to raise our voices against an Islamist dictatorship that systematically oppresses every aspect of their society’s lives.
Rasoulof – about to screen his latest film “The Seed of the Sacred Fig” in Cannes’ main competition – was sentenced to imprisonment and torture by the Islamic Republic of Iran. He fled the country.
“We condemn the inhumane treatment of Rasoulof and numerous other independent artists in Iran, who are being severely punished, criminalized and silenced for exercising their artistic freedom,” it was stated in the letter, already signed by “Holy Spider” star Zar Amir Ebrahimi, Fatih Akin, Atom Egoyan, Ildiko Enyedi, Andrew Haigh, Agnieszka Holland, Laura Poitras, Sandra Hüller, Sean Baker, Payal Kapadia and Ariane Labed.
“We stand in full solidarity with Rasoulof’s demands and call upon the international film community to raise our voices against an Islamist dictatorship that systematically oppresses every aspect of their society’s lives.
- 5/22/2024
- by Marta Balaga
- Variety Film + TV
Rising Moroccan filmmaker Maryam Touzani, whose latest movie “The Blue Caftan” won a flurry of awards and was shortlisted in the Oscar’s international feature race, is set to make her Spanish-language debut with “Calle Malaga.”
Jean-Christophe Simon’s Films Boutique will handle International sales on the project. “Calle Malaga” reteams Touzani and Films Boutique for the third time, having previously collaborated on arthouse hits “Adam” and “The Blue Caftan.”
A character-driven film written by Touzani, “Calle Malaga” revolves around Maria Angeles, a 74-year old woman who belongs to the Spanish community of Tangier and enjoys the quietness of her life in the colorful Moroccan costal town. When her daughter decides to sell her home, she is forced out against her will. She sets off to reclaim her home and furniture that have been sold to a vintage dealer. Through this encounter, she unexpectedly rediscovers the possibility of love and sensuality.
Jean-Christophe Simon’s Films Boutique will handle International sales on the project. “Calle Malaga” reteams Touzani and Films Boutique for the third time, having previously collaborated on arthouse hits “Adam” and “The Blue Caftan.”
A character-driven film written by Touzani, “Calle Malaga” revolves around Maria Angeles, a 74-year old woman who belongs to the Spanish community of Tangier and enjoys the quietness of her life in the colorful Moroccan costal town. When her daughter decides to sell her home, she is forced out against her will. She sets off to reclaim her home and furniture that have been sold to a vintage dealer. Through this encounter, she unexpectedly rediscovers the possibility of love and sensuality.
- 5/21/2024
- by Elsa Keslassy and Nick Vivarelli
- Variety Film + TV
Berlin-based sales agency Films Boutique has closed the first international sales for Iranian director Mohammad Rasoulof’s “The Seed of the Sacred Fig,” ahead of its world premiere on Friday in the Competition section of the Cannes Film Festival.
The film has been acquired in Italy by BiM Distribuzione and Lucky Red, Benelux by September Film Distribution, Spain by Bteam Pictures, Greece by Ama Films, Hungary by Cirko Film, Norway by Selmer Media, Portugal by Leopardo Filmes, Taiwan by Hooray Films and Turkey by Bir Film. The rights for France were previously taken by Pyramide and for North America by Neon.
Negotiations are underway for the rights in Germany and Austria, Switzerland, Latin America, the Baltics, Denmark, former Yugoslavia, the Indian subcontinent, Poland and Sweden.
It was revealed on Monday that Rasoulof had left Iran and traveled to Europe clandestinely after being sentenced to eight years in prison by the country’s authorities,...
The film has been acquired in Italy by BiM Distribuzione and Lucky Red, Benelux by September Film Distribution, Spain by Bteam Pictures, Greece by Ama Films, Hungary by Cirko Film, Norway by Selmer Media, Portugal by Leopardo Filmes, Taiwan by Hooray Films and Turkey by Bir Film. The rights for France were previously taken by Pyramide and for North America by Neon.
Negotiations are underway for the rights in Germany and Austria, Switzerland, Latin America, the Baltics, Denmark, former Yugoslavia, the Indian subcontinent, Poland and Sweden.
It was revealed on Monday that Rasoulof had left Iran and traveled to Europe clandestinely after being sentenced to eight years in prison by the country’s authorities,...
- 5/19/2024
- by Leo Barraclough
- Variety Film + TV
Neon has acquired the North American rights to “The Seed of the Sacred Fig,” directed by Mohammad Rasoulof. The thriller is set to premiere In Competition in Cannes on May 24, and marks Rasoulof’s first return to the Cannes Film Festival, after being barred from traveling. Neon is planning a North American theatrical release later this year.
The film — which stars Setareh Abdolmaleki, Zahra Rostami, Amineh Mazroei Arani and Niousha AkhshiVardoogh — follows Iman, an investigating judge in the Revolutionary Court in Tehran, who grapples with mistrust and paranoia as nationwide political protests intensify and his gun mysteriously disappears. Suspecting the involvement of his wife Najmeh and his daughters Rezvan and Sana, he imposes drastic measures at home, causing tensions to rise.
The deal was negotiated by Neon’s VP of Acquisitions Sarah Colvin with Films Boutique / Parallel 45’s Jean-Christophe Simon and Film Boutique’s Julien Razafindranaly on behalf of the filmmakers.
The film — which stars Setareh Abdolmaleki, Zahra Rostami, Amineh Mazroei Arani and Niousha AkhshiVardoogh — follows Iman, an investigating judge in the Revolutionary Court in Tehran, who grapples with mistrust and paranoia as nationwide political protests intensify and his gun mysteriously disappears. Suspecting the involvement of his wife Najmeh and his daughters Rezvan and Sana, he imposes drastic measures at home, causing tensions to rise.
The deal was negotiated by Neon’s VP of Acquisitions Sarah Colvin with Films Boutique / Parallel 45’s Jean-Christophe Simon and Film Boutique’s Julien Razafindranaly on behalf of the filmmakers.
- 5/18/2024
- by Selena Kuznikov
- Variety Film + TV
Neon has acquired the North American rights to “The Seed of the Sacred Fig,” the newest film from Iranian director Mohammad Rasoulof. The movie will debut at Cannes on May 24.
The company snagged the rights after a competitive bidding war for the movie, which stars Setareh Abdolmaleki, Zahra Rostami, Amineh Mazroei Arani, and Niousha AkhshiVardoogh.
“The Seed of the Sacred Fig” tells the story of Iman, an investigating judge in the Revolutionary Court in Tehran, who struggles with mistrust and paranoia as nationwide political protests intensify and his gun mysteriously disappears. Suspecting the involvement of his wife Najmeh and his daughters Rezvan and Sana, he imposes drastic measures at home, causing tensions to rise. Step by step, social norms and the rules of family life are being suspended.
The movie is produced by Rasoulof, Amin Sadraei, Mani Tilgner, Rozita Hendijanian, Jean-Christophe Simon, and co-produced by Arte France Cinéma with the...
The company snagged the rights after a competitive bidding war for the movie, which stars Setareh Abdolmaleki, Zahra Rostami, Amineh Mazroei Arani, and Niousha AkhshiVardoogh.
“The Seed of the Sacred Fig” tells the story of Iman, an investigating judge in the Revolutionary Court in Tehran, who struggles with mistrust and paranoia as nationwide political protests intensify and his gun mysteriously disappears. Suspecting the involvement of his wife Najmeh and his daughters Rezvan and Sana, he imposes drastic measures at home, causing tensions to rise. Step by step, social norms and the rules of family life are being suspended.
The movie is produced by Rasoulof, Amin Sadraei, Mani Tilgner, Rozita Hendijanian, Jean-Christophe Simon, and co-produced by Arte France Cinéma with the...
- 5/18/2024
- by Stephanie Kaloi
- The Wrap
Neon has grabbed North American rights to The Seed of the Sacred Fig, the latest film from Iranian filmmaker Mohammad Rasoulof.
The thriller is set to debut in competition in Cannes on May 24 and marks Rasoulof’s first return to Cannes after being barred from traveling to serve on last year’s Un Certain Regard jury by Iranian officials. The film stars Setareh Abdolmaleki, Zahra Rostami, Amineh Mazroei Arani, and Niousha AkhshiVardoogh. Neon has said it is planning a North American theatrical release in 2024.
The Seed of the Sacred Fig follows Iman, an investigating judge in the Revolutionary Court in Tehran, who grapples with mistrust and paranoia as nationwide political protests intensify and his gun mysteriously disappears. Suspecting the involvement of his wife Najmeh and his daughters Rezvan and Sana, he imposes drastic measures at home, causing tensions to rise. Step by step,...
The thriller is set to debut in competition in Cannes on May 24 and marks Rasoulof’s first return to Cannes after being barred from traveling to serve on last year’s Un Certain Regard jury by Iranian officials. The film stars Setareh Abdolmaleki, Zahra Rostami, Amineh Mazroei Arani, and Niousha AkhshiVardoogh. Neon has said it is planning a North American theatrical release in 2024.
The Seed of the Sacred Fig follows Iman, an investigating judge in the Revolutionary Court in Tehran, who grapples with mistrust and paranoia as nationwide political protests intensify and his gun mysteriously disappears. Suspecting the involvement of his wife Najmeh and his daughters Rezvan and Sana, he imposes drastic measures at home, causing tensions to rise. Step by step,...
- 5/18/2024
- by Zac Ntim
- Deadline Film + TV
TIFF’s plans to launch an official content market in 2026 has got the Croisette buzzing and sparked mixed reactions, with some industry sources expressing enthusiasm while others have cautioned against a more cluttered calendar.
CEO Cameron Bailey and chief programming officer Anita Lee announced the initiative yesterday. Backed by a $16.9m (C$23m) investment by the Canadian federal government, it will expand on the existing unofficial marketplace and include film, series and Xr screenings, and tentpole packages.
The annual September event will run concurrently with the festival and operate out of dedicated venues in Toronto, with Canadian talent showcases and...
CEO Cameron Bailey and chief programming officer Anita Lee announced the initiative yesterday. Backed by a $16.9m (C$23m) investment by the Canadian federal government, it will expand on the existing unofficial marketplace and include film, series and Xr screenings, and tentpole packages.
The annual September event will run concurrently with the festival and operate out of dedicated venues in Toronto, with Canadian talent showcases and...
- 5/17/2024
- ScreenDaily
Films Boutique has taken on international sales for Berlinale Golden Bear winner Ildiko Enyedi’sSilent Friend now filming in Marburg in Germany.
Written and directed by Enyedi, Silent Friend stars acclaimed Hong Kong actor Tony Leung Chiu-wai, Luna Wedler and Enzo Brumm.
The film marks Tony Leung Chiu-wai’s first time acting in a European film following credits including In The Mood For Love, Lust, Caution, and Shang Chi And The Legend Of The 10 Rings.
Enyedi’s On Body And Soul won the Berlinale Golden Bear in 2017 and an Oscar nomination 2018 for best international film, while The Story of My Wife...
Written and directed by Enyedi, Silent Friend stars acclaimed Hong Kong actor Tony Leung Chiu-wai, Luna Wedler and Enzo Brumm.
The film marks Tony Leung Chiu-wai’s first time acting in a European film following credits including In The Mood For Love, Lust, Caution, and Shang Chi And The Legend Of The 10 Rings.
Enyedi’s On Body And Soul won the Berlinale Golden Bear in 2017 and an Oscar nomination 2018 for best international film, while The Story of My Wife...
- 5/17/2024
- ScreenDaily
Iranian director Mohammad Rasoulof has left Iran and traveled to Europe clandestinely after being sentenced to eight years in prison by the country’s authorities, who pressured him to pull his latest work “The Seed of the Sacred Fig” from the Cannes Film Festival and harassed the film’s producers and actors.
“We are very happy and much relieved that Mohammad has safely arrived in Europe after a dangerous journey,” said Jean-Christophe Simon, CEO of Films Boutique and Parallel45, who are distributing the film. “We hope he will be able to attend the Cannes premiere of ‘The Seed of the Sacred Fig’ in spite of all attempts to prevent him from being there in person.”
However, it remains unclear whether Rasoulof will be able to attend the Cannes world premiere of “Sacred Fig” on May 24, his Cannes publicist and French distributor also noted.
Rasoulov is among Iran’s most prominent...
“We are very happy and much relieved that Mohammad has safely arrived in Europe after a dangerous journey,” said Jean-Christophe Simon, CEO of Films Boutique and Parallel45, who are distributing the film. “We hope he will be able to attend the Cannes premiere of ‘The Seed of the Sacred Fig’ in spite of all attempts to prevent him from being there in person.”
However, it remains unclear whether Rasoulof will be able to attend the Cannes world premiere of “Sacred Fig” on May 24, his Cannes publicist and French distributor also noted.
Rasoulov is among Iran’s most prominent...
- 5/13/2024
- by Nick Vivarelli
- Variety Film + TV
Films Boutique has taken world sales rights to documentary “Elementary,” directed by Claire Simon, ahead of the film’s world premiere in the Special Screenings section of the Cannes Film Festival.
The film was shot at the Makarenko public elementary school on the outskirts of Paris. “Children want to learn and to be cheered while teachers know they do not only teach, they also educate,” according to a press statement. “With care, tenacity and effort, children are trained to become not only responsible citizens but also human beings.”
Simon previously directed the documentary “Our Body” (Notre Corps), which premiered at the Berlin Film Festival in 2023 and was nominated for a César as best documentary in 2024. The film was also part of the Documentary Film Selection of the European Film Awards in 2023.
Jean-Christophe Simon, CEO of Films Boutique, said: “Following the fantastic international reception of ‘Our Body’ last year, we are...
The film was shot at the Makarenko public elementary school on the outskirts of Paris. “Children want to learn and to be cheered while teachers know they do not only teach, they also educate,” according to a press statement. “With care, tenacity and effort, children are trained to become not only responsible citizens but also human beings.”
Simon previously directed the documentary “Our Body” (Notre Corps), which premiered at the Berlin Film Festival in 2023 and was nominated for a César as best documentary in 2024. The film was also part of the Documentary Film Selection of the European Film Awards in 2023.
Jean-Christophe Simon, CEO of Films Boutique, said: “Following the fantastic international reception of ‘Our Body’ last year, we are...
- 5/6/2024
- by Leo Barraclough
- Variety Film + TV
Berlin-based Films Boutique has secured world sales rights to Mohammad Rasoulof’s The Seed Of The Sacred Fig ahead of its premiere in Competition at Cannes, and has closed a distribution deal in France.
The latest feature by the Iranian auteur, who has faced censorship challenges in Iran for nearly 20 years, has been sold to Pyramide Distribution for release in France.
The story centres on Iman, an investigating judge in the Revolutionary Court in Tehran, who grapples with mistrust and paranoia as nationwide political protests intensify and his gun mysteriously disappears. Suspecting the involvement of his wife Najmeh and his daughters Rezvan and Sana,...
The latest feature by the Iranian auteur, who has faced censorship challenges in Iran for nearly 20 years, has been sold to Pyramide Distribution for release in France.
The story centres on Iman, an investigating judge in the Revolutionary Court in Tehran, who grapples with mistrust and paranoia as nationwide political protests intensify and his gun mysteriously disappears. Suspecting the involvement of his wife Najmeh and his daughters Rezvan and Sana,...
- 5/3/2024
- ScreenDaily
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
Bhutan’s official Oscar entry “The Monk and the Gun,” Pawo Choyning Dorji‘s follow-up to “Lunana: A Yak in the Classroom,” has been acquired by more distributors in key territories.
Rolling off premieres at Telluride, Toronto, Rome and Busan, the crowdpleaser has been acquired by Mfa+ Distribution, Edko Films (Hong Kong, Macau), Officine Ubu (Italy) and Maxam Inc. (Japan). The film is represented by Films Boutique in international markets. The movie was also acquired by Roadside Attraction for the U.S. in a deal negotiated with UTA, which is repping the film in North America.
Previous deals were scored with Pyramide Distribution (France), September Films (Benelux), Rialto Distribution (Australia), Future Films (Scandinavia), A Contracorriente (Spain), Lev Films (Israel), Aurora Films (Poland), Trigon (Switzerland), Alambique Films (Portugal) and Impact Films (India and Indian Subcontinent).
“The Monk and the Gun” is set in the Kingdom of Bhutan in 2006. Modernization has finally...
Rolling off premieres at Telluride, Toronto, Rome and Busan, the crowdpleaser has been acquired by Mfa+ Distribution, Edko Films (Hong Kong, Macau), Officine Ubu (Italy) and Maxam Inc. (Japan). The film is represented by Films Boutique in international markets. The movie was also acquired by Roadside Attraction for the U.S. in a deal negotiated with UTA, which is repping the film in North America.
Previous deals were scored with Pyramide Distribution (France), September Films (Benelux), Rialto Distribution (Australia), Future Films (Scandinavia), A Contracorriente (Spain), Lev Films (Israel), Aurora Films (Poland), Trigon (Switzerland), Alambique Films (Portugal) and Impact Films (India and Indian Subcontinent).
“The Monk and the Gun” is set in the Kingdom of Bhutan in 2006. Modernization has finally...
- 12/1/2023
- by Elsa Keslassy
- Variety Film + TV
Bhutan’s official Oscar entry “The Monk And The Gun,” Pawo Choyning Dorji’s follow-up to “Lunana: A Yak in The Classroom,” has been bought by a raft of well-established international theatrical distributors.
Following its festival premieres at Telluride, Toronto, Rome and Busan, “The Monk and the Gun” has been sold by Films Boutique to Pyramide Distribution (France), September Films (Benelux), Rialto Distribution (Australia), Future Films (Scandinavia), A Contracorriente (Spain), Lev Films (Israel), Aurora Films (Poland), Trigon (Switzerland), Alambique Films (Portugal) and Impact Films (India and Indian Subcontinent).
Earlier this week, the crowdpleaser was also acquired by Roadside Attraction for the U.S. in a deal negotiated with UTA, which is repping the film in North America. Films Boutique is currently negotiating deals in other territories.
Choyning Dorji’s feature debut, “Lunana, a Yak in the Classroom,” was the second film ever submitted by Bhutan for the Oscar race and...
Following its festival premieres at Telluride, Toronto, Rome and Busan, “The Monk and the Gun” has been sold by Films Boutique to Pyramide Distribution (France), September Films (Benelux), Rialto Distribution (Australia), Future Films (Scandinavia), A Contracorriente (Spain), Lev Films (Israel), Aurora Films (Poland), Trigon (Switzerland), Alambique Films (Portugal) and Impact Films (India and Indian Subcontinent).
Earlier this week, the crowdpleaser was also acquired by Roadside Attraction for the U.S. in a deal negotiated with UTA, which is repping the film in North America. Films Boutique is currently negotiating deals in other territories.
Choyning Dorji’s feature debut, “Lunana, a Yak in the Classroom,” was the second film ever submitted by Bhutan for the Oscar race and...
- 10/26/2023
- by Elsa Keslassy
- Variety Film + TV
Exclusive: Roadside Attractions has acquired U.S. rights to Bhutan’s official selection for Best International Feature at the 96th Academy Awards, The Monk and the Gun, a spiritual fable written, directed, and co-produced by the Oscar-nominated director of 2019’s Lunana: A Yak in the Classroom, Pawo Choyning Dorj. Contending for Best International Film, Lunana became the first Bhutanese film ever nominated for an Oscar. The Monk and the Gun premiered at the Telluride Film Festival and later the Toronto International Film Festival where it won critical and audience acclaim, currently holding a 100% Fresh rating on Rotten Tomatoes.
In my Deadline review of the film after its Telluride premiere I said, “If I were a betting man — which I am — I would venture to say that with his second film The Monk and the Gun, which just had its world premiere at the Telluride Film Festival this weekend and goes on to Toronto next week,...
In my Deadline review of the film after its Telluride premiere I said, “If I were a betting man — which I am — I would venture to say that with his second film The Monk and the Gun, which just had its world premiere at the Telluride Film Festival this weekend and goes on to Toronto next week,...
- 10/18/2023
- by Pete Hammond
- Deadline Film + TV
Agnieszka Holland is headed to the Vatican for a screening of her migrant crisis drama Green Border, following its selection for its 27th Tertio Millenio Film Festival in November.
The Polish director will also receive the festival’s Special Fuoricampo Prize in the Vatican Library on November 13, ahead of the screening in the presence of top Vatican representatives.
The news follows in the wake of a political backlash and online hate campaign against Holland and the film in Poland, where its depiction of the mistreatment of migrants on its border with Belarus has touched a raw nerve with the country’s right-wing government.
News of the Vatican honor went viral in the devoutly Roman Catholic country and provoked consternation on government-affiliated media outlets.
Related: ‘Green Border’ Review: Agnieszka Holland’s Humanitarian Masterpiece Offers A Harrowing Vision Of The Refugee Crisis In Europe – Venice Film Festival
The annual Fuoricampo prize is...
The Polish director will also receive the festival’s Special Fuoricampo Prize in the Vatican Library on November 13, ahead of the screening in the presence of top Vatican representatives.
The news follows in the wake of a political backlash and online hate campaign against Holland and the film in Poland, where its depiction of the mistreatment of migrants on its border with Belarus has touched a raw nerve with the country’s right-wing government.
News of the Vatican honor went viral in the devoutly Roman Catholic country and provoked consternation on government-affiliated media outlets.
Related: ‘Green Border’ Review: Agnieszka Holland’s Humanitarian Masterpiece Offers A Harrowing Vision Of The Refugee Crisis In Europe – Venice Film Festival
The annual Fuoricampo prize is...
- 9/26/2023
- by Melanie Goodfellow
- Deadline Film + TV
Veteran Polish director Agnieszka Holland’s Venice Special Jury Prize-winning refugee drama Green Border will release as planned in Poland on September 22 in defiance of a political backlash and wave of online hate talk.
Inspired by real-life events along Poland’s border with Belarus, the film has touched a raw nerve with the ruling right-wing, anti-migrant coalition led by the Law and Justice (PiS) party for its depictions of Polish border guards pushing back and abusing newly arrived refugees.
Public criticism of the film by coalition politicians has been accompanied by a wave of extreme online hate talk against Holland, some of it antisemitic, calling on her to be tried for treason or expelled from Poland.
Sales agent Jean-Christophe Simon at Films Boutique announced on Wednesday (September 13) that the company been forced to disable the comments on social media pages promoting the film, after they were targeted by right-wing groups.
Inspired by real-life events along Poland’s border with Belarus, the film has touched a raw nerve with the ruling right-wing, anti-migrant coalition led by the Law and Justice (PiS) party for its depictions of Polish border guards pushing back and abusing newly arrived refugees.
Public criticism of the film by coalition politicians has been accompanied by a wave of extreme online hate talk against Holland, some of it antisemitic, calling on her to be tried for treason or expelled from Poland.
Sales agent Jean-Christophe Simon at Films Boutique announced on Wednesday (September 13) that the company been forced to disable the comments on social media pages promoting the film, after they were targeted by right-wing groups.
- 9/14/2023
- by Melanie Goodfellow
- Deadline Film + TV
With no film industry to speak of, and limited funds to make a movie in one of the most remote places on earth, young Bhutanese director-writer Pawo Choyning Dorji pulled off a miracle with his first feature, Lunana: A Yak in the Classroom, which came out of nowhere to get an Oscar nomination for Best International Feature (formerly Best Foreign Language Film) in 2019. It was a charmer of a movie set in a village in Bhutan with no connection to the outside world and where a young teacher must decide whether he wants to stay and teach the kids or follow his dreams to Australia.
If I were a betting man — which I am — I would venture to say that with his second film The Monk and the Gun, which just had its world premiere at the Telluride Film Festival this weekend and goes on to Toronto next week, will...
If I were a betting man — which I am — I would venture to say that with his second film The Monk and the Gun, which just had its world premiere at the Telluride Film Festival this weekend and goes on to Toronto next week, will...
- 9/4/2023
- by Pete Hammond
- Deadline Film + TV
Iranian filmmaker Ali Asgari, whose latest film “Terrestrial Verses” (co-directed by Alireza Khatami) world premiered at the Cannes Film Festival, has been banned by the Iranian authorities from leaving the country and directing movies until further notice.
The sole Iranian movie to play in Cannes Official Selection this year, “Terrestrial Verses” earned a warm critical response at the festival, where it played in Un Certain Regard, and was sold by Films Boutique around the world. But when Asgari returned to Iran after the premiere, he had his passport confiscated by the local authorities to prevent him from attending further international festivals. In an attempt to silence him, the Iranian regime also threatened to send him to prison as has happened to other outspoken Iranian directors. Just a couple weeks ago, Saeed Roustaee and his producer were sentenced to six months to prison for showing their film “Leila’s Brothers” at last...
The sole Iranian movie to play in Cannes Official Selection this year, “Terrestrial Verses” earned a warm critical response at the festival, where it played in Un Certain Regard, and was sold by Films Boutique around the world. But when Asgari returned to Iran after the premiere, he had his passport confiscated by the local authorities to prevent him from attending further international festivals. In an attempt to silence him, the Iranian regime also threatened to send him to prison as has happened to other outspoken Iranian directors. Just a couple weeks ago, Saeed Roustaee and his producer were sentenced to six months to prison for showing their film “Leila’s Brothers” at last...
- 9/1/2023
- by Elsa Keslassy and Nick Vivarelli
- Variety Film + TV
Bhutanese director Pawo Choyning Dorji’s ‘The Monk And The Gun’ plays in Toronto’s Centrepiece programme next month.
Berlin-based Films Boutique has boarded international sales for Bhutanese director Pawo Choyning Dorji’s The Monk And The Gun, which has its international premiere at Toronto next month in the festival’s Centrepiece programme
Dorji previously directed Lunana: A Yak In The Classroom, which was nominated for best international feature at last year’s Academy Awards. Lunana premiered at the BFI London Film Festival in 2019, played widely on the festival circuit and secured multiple distribution deals including with Samuel Goldwyn for North America.
Berlin-based Films Boutique has boarded international sales for Bhutanese director Pawo Choyning Dorji’s The Monk And The Gun, which has its international premiere at Toronto next month in the festival’s Centrepiece programme
Dorji previously directed Lunana: A Yak In The Classroom, which was nominated for best international feature at last year’s Academy Awards. Lunana premiered at the BFI London Film Festival in 2019, played widely on the festival circuit and secured multiple distribution deals including with Samuel Goldwyn for North America.
- 8/10/2023
- by Tim Dams
- ScreenDaily
Locarno — Switzerland’s Locarno Fest hit its final straits on Wednesday evening with “Spring Breakers” director Harmony Korine, among a slim roster of on-site stars, set to arrive to accept in person an Honorary Golden Pard.
Otherwise, the dust is settling on activities at the festival’s vibrant industry arm, Locarno Pro, which broke all-time attendance records with 1,530 delegates, and on a market which, however relaxed, says much about larger forces rocking the arthouse and crossover business worldwide:
Arthouse Crunch
Over the last decade, theatrical arthouse markets have imploded soufflé-like. “We used to make 5,000 admissions per title, now the target audience is 500,” Peter Bognar, at Hungary’s CinefilCo, told Variety at Locarno. So, to close the gap and move hopefully into a little upside, having tapped subsidies and local TV pre-buys, producers are looking ever more to overseas public-sector coin, channelled via international co-producer partners. Tapping that not by chance...
Otherwise, the dust is settling on activities at the festival’s vibrant industry arm, Locarno Pro, which broke all-time attendance records with 1,530 delegates, and on a market which, however relaxed, says much about larger forces rocking the arthouse and crossover business worldwide:
Arthouse Crunch
Over the last decade, theatrical arthouse markets have imploded soufflé-like. “We used to make 5,000 admissions per title, now the target audience is 500,” Peter Bognar, at Hungary’s CinefilCo, told Variety at Locarno. So, to close the gap and move hopefully into a little upside, having tapped subsidies and local TV pre-buys, producers are looking ever more to overseas public-sector coin, channelled via international co-producer partners. Tapping that not by chance...
- 8/9/2023
- by John Hopewell and Marta Balaga
- Variety Film + TV
Films Boutique will handle international sales on Filipino master Lav Díaz’s “Essential Truths of The Lake,” one of the highest-profile titles in the just announced main International Competition at this year’s Locarno Festival.
The Berlin and Lyon-based production-sales company’s fifth collaboration with Diaz following, among others, Venice Golden Bear Winner “The Woman Who Left” and Berlin Silver Bear Winner “Lullaby To A Sorrowful Mystery,” “Essential Truths of The Lake” marks a prequel to Diaz’s ‘When The Waves Are Gone’ that premiered out of competition at Venice last year.
It reprises the character of the ethically conflicted police lieutenant Hermes Papauran, one of the best investigators of the Philippines. When asked what drives a man to search for the truth, Papauran says dejectedly that maybe he just wants to keep inflicting pain on himself.
Faced with Philippine President Rodrigo Duterte’s bloody murders and brazen lies, he...
The Berlin and Lyon-based production-sales company’s fifth collaboration with Diaz following, among others, Venice Golden Bear Winner “The Woman Who Left” and Berlin Silver Bear Winner “Lullaby To A Sorrowful Mystery,” “Essential Truths of The Lake” marks a prequel to Diaz’s ‘When The Waves Are Gone’ that premiered out of competition at Venice last year.
It reprises the character of the ethically conflicted police lieutenant Hermes Papauran, one of the best investigators of the Philippines. When asked what drives a man to search for the truth, Papauran says dejectedly that maybe he just wants to keep inflicting pain on himself.
Faced with Philippine President Rodrigo Duterte’s bloody murders and brazen lies, he...
- 7/5/2023
- by John Hopewell
- Variety Film + TV
Rolling off a successful collaboration on “Charlatan,” Films Boutique has boarded Agnieszka Holland’s next film “The Green Border,” which just completed principal photography in Poland.
Now in post production, “The Green Border” tells the fateful story of a family of Syrian refugees, a solitary English teacher from Afghanistan and a young border guard, all of whom meet on the Polish-Belarusian border during the most recent humanitarian crisis triggered by President Lukaschenko opening doors to migrants in Belarus as a back door to enter the EU.
The screenplay, penned by Holland, Gabriela Łazarkiewicz-Sieczko and Maciej Pisuk, is inspired by real events. Research for the film included hundreds of hours of document analysis, interviews with refugees, border guards, borderland residents, activists and experts.
A co-production between Poland, France, Belgium and the Czech Republic, “The Green Border” is produced by Marcin Wierzchosławski (Metro Films), Fred Bernstein (Astute Films) and Holland. Co-producers are Maria Blicharska,...
Now in post production, “The Green Border” tells the fateful story of a family of Syrian refugees, a solitary English teacher from Afghanistan and a young border guard, all of whom meet on the Polish-Belarusian border during the most recent humanitarian crisis triggered by President Lukaschenko opening doors to migrants in Belarus as a back door to enter the EU.
The screenplay, penned by Holland, Gabriela Łazarkiewicz-Sieczko and Maciej Pisuk, is inspired by real events. Research for the film included hundreds of hours of document analysis, interviews with refugees, border guards, borderland residents, activists and experts.
A co-production between Poland, France, Belgium and the Czech Republic, “The Green Border” is produced by Marcin Wierzchosławski (Metro Films), Fred Bernstein (Astute Films) and Holland. Co-producers are Maria Blicharska,...
- 5/10/2023
- by Elsa Keslassy
- Variety Film + TV
Documentary world premiered this weekend at Hot Docs in Toronto.
Berlin-based Films Boutique has launched international sales on leading Mexican filmmaker Everardo González’s latest documentary A Wolfpack Called Ernesto, which world premiered at the weekend at Hot Docs in Toronto.
Films Boutique has also co-produced the doc, which is backed by TelevisaUnivision’s Spanish language streamer ViX and N+ Docs, the documentary division of the Mexican news content producer N+. The film is supported by the Berlinale’s World Cinema Fund.
A Wolfpack Called Ernesto focuses on the impact of gang violence on young people in Mexico City, with...
Berlin-based Films Boutique has launched international sales on leading Mexican filmmaker Everardo González’s latest documentary A Wolfpack Called Ernesto, which world premiered at the weekend at Hot Docs in Toronto.
Films Boutique has also co-produced the doc, which is backed by TelevisaUnivision’s Spanish language streamer ViX and N+ Docs, the documentary division of the Mexican news content producer N+. The film is supported by the Berlinale’s World Cinema Fund.
A Wolfpack Called Ernesto focuses on the impact of gang violence on young people in Mexico City, with...
- 5/2/2023
- by Tim Dams
- ScreenDaily
Films Boutique, the Berlin-based company behind “Pacifiction” and “The Burdened,” has come on board three international movies slated for the Cannes Film Festival. These include a pair of films set for Cannes’ Un Certain Regard, “Terrestrial Verses” and “The Buriti Flower,” as well as “Tiger Stripes” which will bow at Critics’ Week.
“Terrestrial Verses,” directed by Alireza Khatami and Ali Asgari, is the sole Iranian film premiering in the Official Selection. The movie marks the first collaboration between these two critically acclaimed directors.
Khatami previously wrote and directed “Oblivion Verses” which won best screenplay and the Fipresci prizes at Venice in 2017. Asgari, meanwhile, previously directed “Until Tomorrow” which premiered at Berlin last year, and presented two shorts at Cannes, “More Than Two Hours” in 2013 et “Il Silenzio” in 2016.
While the plot remains under wrap, the film’s title is a reference to a poet by famed Iranian Poet Forugh Farrokhzad.
“Terrestrial Verses,” directed by Alireza Khatami and Ali Asgari, is the sole Iranian film premiering in the Official Selection. The movie marks the first collaboration between these two critically acclaimed directors.
Khatami previously wrote and directed “Oblivion Verses” which won best screenplay and the Fipresci prizes at Venice in 2017. Asgari, meanwhile, previously directed “Until Tomorrow” which premiered at Berlin last year, and presented two shorts at Cannes, “More Than Two Hours” in 2013 et “Il Silenzio” in 2016.
While the plot remains under wrap, the film’s title is a reference to a poet by famed Iranian Poet Forugh Farrokhzad.
- 4/26/2023
- by Elsa Keslassy
- Variety Film + TV
Slate includes features in Competition, Encounters, Forum and Panorama sections
Berlin-based sales outfit Films Boutique has unveiled a six-title Berlinale slate, including Zhang Lu’s competition title The Shadowless Tower as well as features playing in the festival’s Encounters, Forum and Panorama sections.
Films Boutique is representing two films playing in Encounters: Leandro Koch and Paloma Schachmann’s The Klezmer Project and Tibor Bánóczki and Sarolta Szabó’s White Plastic Sky.
It is also handling director Claire Simon’s Forum documentary Our Body and Amr Gamal’s Panorama film The Burdened.
Rounding out Films Boutique’s EFM slate is Jessica Woodworth’s Luka,...
Berlin-based sales outfit Films Boutique has unveiled a six-title Berlinale slate, including Zhang Lu’s competition title The Shadowless Tower as well as features playing in the festival’s Encounters, Forum and Panorama sections.
Films Boutique is representing two films playing in Encounters: Leandro Koch and Paloma Schachmann’s The Klezmer Project and Tibor Bánóczki and Sarolta Szabó’s White Plastic Sky.
It is also handling director Claire Simon’s Forum documentary Our Body and Amr Gamal’s Panorama film The Burdened.
Rounding out Films Boutique’s EFM slate is Jessica Woodworth’s Luka,...
- 2/1/2023
- by Emilio Mayorga
- ScreenDaily
“Press releases and social media messages achieve nothing,” said the filmmaker.
Iranian filmmaker Mani Haghighi has called on the international film community to step up efforts in the fight against the authoritarian Iranian government, and says festivals, markets and the Oscars should exclude state-run Iranian entities.
“Press releases condemning the imprisonment of filmmakers change nothing. Film stars holding signs demanding the release of imprisoned filmmakers change nothing,” Haghighi told Screen from his home in Tehran. “They are very nice, and are done with the best intentions, but they make no difference at all. The only thing they accomplish is to...
Iranian filmmaker Mani Haghighi has called on the international film community to step up efforts in the fight against the authoritarian Iranian government, and says festivals, markets and the Oscars should exclude state-run Iranian entities.
“Press releases condemning the imprisonment of filmmakers change nothing. Film stars holding signs demanding the release of imprisoned filmmakers change nothing,” Haghighi told Screen from his home in Tehran. “They are very nice, and are done with the best intentions, but they make no difference at all. The only thing they accomplish is to...
- 11/13/2022
- by Stuart Kemp
- ScreenDaily
“Subtraction,” from idiosyncratic Iranian helmer-writer Mani Haghighi is a tense Hitchcockian thriller set in Tehran, where a heavy, non-stop rainfall signals a lingering malaise. There, a young couple come across their doppelgängers. The film premiered at the Toronto festival.
The idea for the plot grew out of the helmer’s long-ago trip to Southwest Iran to look at places where the Iran-Iraq war took place.
“It was a hot summer day and I wandered into a local mosque to cool down and get some rest,” Haghighi says. “The people who ran the mosque had put on an exhibition of photographs from the war years. I was casually looking at these pictures and I was suddenly transfixed by one of them. It was a picture of me, in military uniform, badly wounded in the neck, being carried by two other soldiers. As one of the characters says in ‘Subtraction,’ ‘It’s...
The idea for the plot grew out of the helmer’s long-ago trip to Southwest Iran to look at places where the Iran-Iraq war took place.
“It was a hot summer day and I wandered into a local mosque to cool down and get some rest,” Haghighi says. “The people who ran the mosque had put on an exhibition of photographs from the war years. I was casually looking at these pictures and I was suddenly transfixed by one of them. It was a picture of me, in military uniform, badly wounded in the neck, being carried by two other soldiers. As one of the characters says in ‘Subtraction,’ ‘It’s...
- 9/21/2022
- by Alissa Simon
- Variety Film + TV
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
“You’ve got to know when it’s time to leave,” Cannes Festival head Thierry Frémaux joked to laughter at a packed farewell cocktail on Monday to Jerôme Paillard. “Thanks to you all for being here, the old guard, getting older every year, including myself. And again, one word for you, Jérôme: Merci.”
Meanwhile Paillard, looking young for his 66 years, stood beside Frémaux and beamed. The complicity between Fremaux and Paillard was evident at the drinks party which was meant to be a farewell, but also served as a homage.
“He’s one of the fundamental builders of the Cannes Festival since without its economy and trade, neither cinematographic creation nor the trajectory of the Festival would have enjoyed the same reputation or impact,” Cannes Festival president Pierre Lescure
Many will share Lescure’s sentiment. For 27 years, Paillard has run the Cannes Marché du Film, overseeing and powering its extraordinary growth.
Meanwhile Paillard, looking young for his 66 years, stood beside Frémaux and beamed. The complicity between Fremaux and Paillard was evident at the drinks party which was meant to be a farewell, but also served as a homage.
“He’s one of the fundamental builders of the Cannes Festival since without its economy and trade, neither cinematographic creation nor the trajectory of the Festival would have enjoyed the same reputation or impact,” Cannes Festival president Pierre Lescure
Many will share Lescure’s sentiment. For 27 years, Paillard has run the Cannes Marché du Film, overseeing and powering its extraordinary growth.
- 5/24/2022
- by Marta Balaga and John Hopewell
- Variety Film + TV
The film is directed by Costa Rica’s Ariel Escalanta Meza.
Berlin-based Films Boutique has made a significant early sale on Ariel Escalante Meza’s Un Certain Regard title Domingo And The Mist to Epicentre in France.
“It’s exciting to have a French distributor on board ahead of the market, as it is also reassuring to be working again with our long-term partners at Epicentre Film,” said Films Boutique CEO Jean-Christophe Simon.
Costa Rican director Meza is a Berlinale Talents alumnus and recipient of the National Prize for the Arts from Costa Rica’s Ministry of Culture in 2018. A renowne deditor,...
Berlin-based Films Boutique has made a significant early sale on Ariel Escalante Meza’s Un Certain Regard title Domingo And The Mist to Epicentre in France.
“It’s exciting to have a French distributor on board ahead of the market, as it is also reassuring to be working again with our long-term partners at Epicentre Film,” said Films Boutique CEO Jean-Christophe Simon.
Costa Rican director Meza is a Berlinale Talents alumnus and recipient of the National Prize for the Arts from Costa Rica’s Ministry of Culture in 2018. A renowne deditor,...
- 5/12/2022
- by Geoffrey Macnab
- ScreenDaily
The film is directed by Costa Rica’s Ariel Escalanta Meza.
Berlin-based Films Boutique has made a significant early sale on Ariel Escalante Meza’s Un Certain Regard title Domingo And The Mist to Epicentre in France.
“It’s exciting to have a French distributor on board ahead of the market, as it is also reassuring to be working again with our long-term partners at Epicentre Film,” said Films Boutique CEO Jean-Christophe Simon.
Costa Rican director Meza is a Berlinale Talents alumnus and recipient of the National Prize for the Arts from Costa Rica’s Ministry of Culture in 2018. A renowne deditor,...
Berlin-based Films Boutique has made a significant early sale on Ariel Escalante Meza’s Un Certain Regard title Domingo And The Mist to Epicentre in France.
“It’s exciting to have a French distributor on board ahead of the market, as it is also reassuring to be working again with our long-term partners at Epicentre Film,” said Films Boutique CEO Jean-Christophe Simon.
Costa Rican director Meza is a Berlinale Talents alumnus and recipient of the National Prize for the Arts from Costa Rica’s Ministry of Culture in 2018. A renowne deditor,...
- 5/12/2022
- by Geoffrey Macnab
- ScreenDaily
Films Boutique has acquired four films set to world premiere at Cannes, including Albert Serra (“The Death of Louis Xiv”)’s “Pacifiction” which will compete in the 75th edition’s Official Selection.
The Berlin-based international sales banner has also acquired rising Morrocan helmer Maryam Touzani (“Adam”)’s “The Blue Caftan” and Costa Rican director Ariel Escalante Meza’s “Domingo and the Mist” which will both play in Un Certain Regard; as well as Portuguese filmmaker João Pedro Rodrigues (“The Ornithologist”)’s “Will-o’-The-Wisp,” set for Directors’ Fortnight.
“Pacifiction” stars Cesar-winning French actor Benoit Magimel (“Peaceful”) as a calculating French government official working in the French Polynesian island of Tahiti. While investigating on a mysterious submarine, he navigates the high end ’establishment,’ and mingles with locals in underground venues.
Serra was last in Cannes with his 2019 feature film “Liberté” which won the jury prize at Un Certain Regard.”‘Pacifiction’ is a...
The Berlin-based international sales banner has also acquired rising Morrocan helmer Maryam Touzani (“Adam”)’s “The Blue Caftan” and Costa Rican director Ariel Escalante Meza’s “Domingo and the Mist” which will both play in Un Certain Regard; as well as Portuguese filmmaker João Pedro Rodrigues (“The Ornithologist”)’s “Will-o’-The-Wisp,” set for Directors’ Fortnight.
“Pacifiction” stars Cesar-winning French actor Benoit Magimel (“Peaceful”) as a calculating French government official working in the French Polynesian island of Tahiti. While investigating on a mysterious submarine, he navigates the high end ’establishment,’ and mingles with locals in underground venues.
Serra was last in Cannes with his 2019 feature film “Liberté” which won the jury prize at Un Certain Regard.”‘Pacifiction’ is a...
- 5/6/2022
- by Elsa Keslassy
- Variety Film + TV
Films Boutique and ICM Partners have launched sales on Jake Paltrow’s upcoming drama June Zero, with Films Boutique handling international rights and ICM overseeing distribution in North America.
Paltrow’s first foreign-language production explores true stories surrounding the execution of Holocaust organizer Adolf Eichmann in 1962 Israel, through three characters intimately involved in the nation-defining event: David, a precocious 13-year-old Libyan factory worker looking to belong; Haim, Eichmann’s main prison guard, tasked with protecting this dead man walking; and the Police Investigative officer of the Eichmann trial, Micha, on his first trip back to Poland since surviving Auschwitz-Birkenau, where he tries to make sense of the future of the Jewish homeland’s soul post-execution.
Shot on Super-16mm film in Israel and Ukraine under strict Covid regulations, June Zero was written by Paltrow and Tom Shoval. Miranda Bailey (God’s Country), David Silber (Incitement) and Emmy winner Oren Moverman (Bad Education) produced,...
Paltrow’s first foreign-language production explores true stories surrounding the execution of Holocaust organizer Adolf Eichmann in 1962 Israel, through three characters intimately involved in the nation-defining event: David, a precocious 13-year-old Libyan factory worker looking to belong; Haim, Eichmann’s main prison guard, tasked with protecting this dead man walking; and the Police Investigative officer of the Eichmann trial, Micha, on his first trip back to Poland since surviving Auschwitz-Birkenau, where he tries to make sense of the future of the Jewish homeland’s soul post-execution.
Shot on Super-16mm film in Israel and Ukraine under strict Covid regulations, June Zero was written by Paltrow and Tom Shoval. Miranda Bailey (God’s Country), David Silber (Incitement) and Emmy winner Oren Moverman (Bad Education) produced,...
- 3/9/2022
- by Matt Grobar
- Deadline Film + TV
Jake Paltrow’s forthcoming feature film “June Zero” has been picked up for sales by ICM Partners in North America and Films Boutique for the rest of world.
Written by Paltrow and Tom Shoval, “June Zero” explores true stories surrounding the 1962 execution of Adolf Eichmann — one of the key architects of the Holocaust — in Israel through three characters intimately involved in the nation-defining event: David, a precocious thirteen-year-old Libyan factory worker looking to belong; Haim, Eichmann’s main prison guard, tasked with protecting this dead man walking; and the Police Investigative officer of the Eichmann trial, Micha, on his first trip back to Poland since surviving Auschwitz-Birkenau — where he tries to make sense of the future of the Jewish homeland’s soul post-execution.
“June Zero” was shot on Super-16mm film in Israel and Ukraine under strict Covid-19 regulations, and represents writer-director Paltrow’s first foreign language production. The filmmaker...
Written by Paltrow and Tom Shoval, “June Zero” explores true stories surrounding the 1962 execution of Adolf Eichmann — one of the key architects of the Holocaust — in Israel through three characters intimately involved in the nation-defining event: David, a precocious thirteen-year-old Libyan factory worker looking to belong; Haim, Eichmann’s main prison guard, tasked with protecting this dead man walking; and the Police Investigative officer of the Eichmann trial, Micha, on his first trip back to Poland since surviving Auschwitz-Birkenau — where he tries to make sense of the future of the Jewish homeland’s soul post-execution.
“June Zero” was shot on Super-16mm film in Israel and Ukraine under strict Covid-19 regulations, and represents writer-director Paltrow’s first foreign language production. The filmmaker...
- 3/9/2022
- by Manori Ravindran
- Variety Film + TV
Geraldine Chaplin, Jonas Smulders star.
Berlin-based sales firm Films Boutique has boarded Jessica Woodworth’s Belgian feature Fortress starring Geraldine Chaplin and Jonas Smulders.
It has released a first-look image of the film, which is in post-production, above.
Fortress shot for six weeks in Sicily in autumn 2021, with filming in black-and-white on Super 16mm film. US-Belgian filmmaker Woodworth wrote the screenplay, adapted from Dino Buzzati’s 1940 novel The Tartar Steppe.
It is about a young soldier, hungry for battle, who embeds himself in an isolated fort where men wait in vain for an enemy to strike. Jan Bijvoet and Sam Louwyck also star.
Berlin-based sales firm Films Boutique has boarded Jessica Woodworth’s Belgian feature Fortress starring Geraldine Chaplin and Jonas Smulders.
It has released a first-look image of the film, which is in post-production, above.
Fortress shot for six weeks in Sicily in autumn 2021, with filming in black-and-white on Super 16mm film. US-Belgian filmmaker Woodworth wrote the screenplay, adapted from Dino Buzzati’s 1940 novel The Tartar Steppe.
It is about a young soldier, hungry for battle, who embeds himself in an isolated fort where men wait in vain for an enemy to strike. Jan Bijvoet and Sam Louwyck also star.
- 2/13/2022
- by Ben Dalton
- ScreenDaily
“Commitment Hasan,” a Turkish drama by Semih Kaplanoğlu that world premiered at Cannes’ Un Certain Regard, has been sold by Films Boutique to several key markets.
The movie is part of a trilogy that began with “Commitment Asli,” Turkey’s official entry for the Oscar international feature film race in 2020. Kaplanoglu, one of Turkey’s most celebrated filmmaker, previously directed the trilogy “Grain,” “Honey” and “Milk.” “Grain” won Berlin’s Golden Bear award in 2010.
“Commitment Hasan” is now being buzzed about as Turkey’s potential Oscar submission. Films Boutique has closed a raft of deals on the movie to Spain (Paco Poch Cinema), Ex Yugoslavia (Five Stars Distribution), Israel (Lev Cinemas) and Portugal (Leopardo). Arp Selection will release the film in France and Cgv Mars will distribute it in Turkey.
“Commitment Hasan” follows a man who makes his living from gardening and farming in the land he inherited from his father.
The movie is part of a trilogy that began with “Commitment Asli,” Turkey’s official entry for the Oscar international feature film race in 2020. Kaplanoglu, one of Turkey’s most celebrated filmmaker, previously directed the trilogy “Grain,” “Honey” and “Milk.” “Grain” won Berlin’s Golden Bear award in 2010.
“Commitment Hasan” is now being buzzed about as Turkey’s potential Oscar submission. Films Boutique has closed a raft of deals on the movie to Spain (Paco Poch Cinema), Ex Yugoslavia (Five Stars Distribution), Israel (Lev Cinemas) and Portugal (Leopardo). Arp Selection will release the film in France and Cgv Mars will distribute it in Turkey.
“Commitment Hasan” follows a man who makes his living from gardening and farming in the land he inherited from his father.
- 10/20/2021
- by Elsa Keslassy
- Variety Film + TV
Berlin-based sales agency Films Boutique has boarded Ukraine war documentary “Trenches,” which will world premiere at the Venice Film Festival in the Out of Competition section.
French war journalist Loup Bureau, directing his first documentary, depicts the reality of the war that has been raging in Eastern Europe between Ukraine and Russian-backed forces over several years, a conflict that is no longer reported extensively by mainstream international media.
In Donbas, Ukraine, while precarious ceasefires are being negotiated far away by diplomats, Ukrainian soldiers fight against separatists supported by Russia. At an age when most young people in Europe are enjoying some of the best years of their lives, on the frontline men and women are fighting for their lives, condemned to dig, and dig again trenches while bombs fall on them.
Bureau takes us on “an immersive and stunning cinematic journey revealing the naked truth and roughness of survival,” according to a press statement,...
French war journalist Loup Bureau, directing his first documentary, depicts the reality of the war that has been raging in Eastern Europe between Ukraine and Russian-backed forces over several years, a conflict that is no longer reported extensively by mainstream international media.
In Donbas, Ukraine, while precarious ceasefires are being negotiated far away by diplomats, Ukrainian soldiers fight against separatists supported by Russia. At an age when most young people in Europe are enjoying some of the best years of their lives, on the frontline men and women are fighting for their lives, condemned to dig, and dig again trenches while bombs fall on them.
Bureau takes us on “an immersive and stunning cinematic journey revealing the naked truth and roughness of survival,” according to a press statement,...
- 7/28/2021
- by Leo Barraclough
- Variety Film + TV
Playtime has nearly sold out Jacques Audiard’s “Paris, 13th District,” one of the critical highlights of this year’s Cannes Film Festival.
The black-and-white relationship drama has been applauded for breakthrough performances by newcomer Lucie Zhang, Makita Samba and Noemie Merland (“Portrait of a Lady on Fire”), as well as a sharp and modern script penned by Audiard, Léa Mysius (“Ava”) and Celine Sciamma.
Lighthearted, bold and profound, the movie tackles the issues of sexuality, love and dating through the story of Emilie, Camille, Nora and Amber, four young adults who are friends and sometimes lovers in Paris’s 13th arrondissement. The film is loosely based on New Yorker cartoonist Adrian Tomine’s collection of graphic short stories “Killing and Dying.”
Playtime has closed a raft of deals on “Paris, 13th District” for Latin America (California Filmes), Spain (Avalon), Germany/Austria (Neue Visionen), Italy (Cineone/Europictures), Israel (Lev Cinema...
The black-and-white relationship drama has been applauded for breakthrough performances by newcomer Lucie Zhang, Makita Samba and Noemie Merland (“Portrait of a Lady on Fire”), as well as a sharp and modern script penned by Audiard, Léa Mysius (“Ava”) and Celine Sciamma.
Lighthearted, bold and profound, the movie tackles the issues of sexuality, love and dating through the story of Emilie, Camille, Nora and Amber, four young adults who are friends and sometimes lovers in Paris’s 13th arrondissement. The film is loosely based on New Yorker cartoonist Adrian Tomine’s collection of graphic short stories “Killing and Dying.”
Playtime has closed a raft of deals on “Paris, 13th District” for Latin America (California Filmes), Spain (Avalon), Germany/Austria (Neue Visionen), Italy (Cineone/Europictures), Israel (Lev Cinema...
- 7/20/2021
- by Elsa Keslassy and John Hopewell
- Variety Film + TV
Sean Penn’s “Flag Day,” Leos Carax’s “Annette,” starring Adam Driver and Marion Cotillard, and Wes Anderson’s “The French Dispatch,” with Frances McDormand and Timothée Chalamet, will provide star power at a 2021 Cannes Festival packed to overflowing with established and very often new European and world cinema arthouse talent.
The festival films will also drive much of Cannes’ business. Cannes’ business behemoth, a pre-sales market unveiling big indie projects — such as this year’s $60 million Vin Diesel vehicle “Muscle” — took place June 21-25 at the virtual Pre-Cannes Screenings.
“In some ways, Cannes this year has the opportunity to be the purest form of itself,” said Dylan Leiner at Sony Pictures Classics.
“Since the market was held virtually a couple of weeks before, festivalgoers will be able to focus on the programmed films almost exclusively without the distraction of a physical market, which so often favors splashy, large scale packages that grab headlines,...
The festival films will also drive much of Cannes’ business. Cannes’ business behemoth, a pre-sales market unveiling big indie projects — such as this year’s $60 million Vin Diesel vehicle “Muscle” — took place June 21-25 at the virtual Pre-Cannes Screenings.
“In some ways, Cannes this year has the opportunity to be the purest form of itself,” said Dylan Leiner at Sony Pictures Classics.
“Since the market was held virtually a couple of weeks before, festivalgoers will be able to focus on the programmed films almost exclusively without the distraction of a physical market, which so often favors splashy, large scale packages that grab headlines,...
- 7/6/2021
- by John Hopewell and Elsa Keslassy
- Variety Film + TV
Films Boutique has boarded international sales rights to “Mi Iubita, Mon Amour,” the feature debut of actor-turned-filmmaker Noémie Merlant. The movie will world premiere in the Special Screenings section at Cannes.
Merlant, who gained critical acclaim with her performance in Celine Sciamma’s “Portrait of a Lady on Fire,” will also be in Cannes, in competition, with Jacques Audiard’s anticipated “Paris, 13th District.”
“Mi Iubita, Mon Amour” stars Merlant as Jeanne, a young woman who is traveling to Romania to celebrate her bachelorette party with her friends when she meets Nino. She is 27, he is 17, and they are worlds away from one another, yet for the two of them it is the beginning of a passionate and timeless summer. Merlant stars opposite Gimi Covaci and Clara Lama-Schmit.
“We are particularly thrilled to accompany Noémie’s first feature film as a director and it is as big of an honor...
Merlant, who gained critical acclaim with her performance in Celine Sciamma’s “Portrait of a Lady on Fire,” will also be in Cannes, in competition, with Jacques Audiard’s anticipated “Paris, 13th District.”
“Mi Iubita, Mon Amour” stars Merlant as Jeanne, a young woman who is traveling to Romania to celebrate her bachelorette party with her friends when she meets Nino. She is 27, he is 17, and they are worlds away from one another, yet for the two of them it is the beginning of a passionate and timeless summer. Merlant stars opposite Gimi Covaci and Clara Lama-Schmit.
“We are particularly thrilled to accompany Noémie’s first feature film as a director and it is as big of an honor...
- 6/17/2021
- by Elsa Keslassy
- Variety Film + TV
The film is a drama about abortion in a country where it is illegal.
Leading arthouse sales agent Films Boutique has taken world rights to Mahamat-Saleh Haroun’s Lingui, The Sacred Bonds, increasing its roster of Competition titles from this year’s Cannes festival.
The film was written and directed by Haroun and produced by Florence Stern from French production company Pili Films, in association with Beluga Tree and Made in Germany Filmproduktion.
It is set on the outskirts of N’djamena in Chad, where Amina lives with her 15-year-old daughter Maria. Her fragile world collapses when she discovers that...
Leading arthouse sales agent Films Boutique has taken world rights to Mahamat-Saleh Haroun’s Lingui, The Sacred Bonds, increasing its roster of Competition titles from this year’s Cannes festival.
The film was written and directed by Haroun and produced by Florence Stern from French production company Pili Films, in association with Beluga Tree and Made in Germany Filmproduktion.
It is set on the outskirts of N’djamena in Chad, where Amina lives with her 15-year-old daughter Maria. Her fragile world collapses when she discovers that...
- 6/3/2021
- by Geoffrey Macnab
- ScreenDaily
Berlin-based sales banner Films Boutique has acquired Elizabeth Vogler’s “Roaring 20’s” ahead of its world premiere in competition at Tribeca.
Vogler’s follow-up to “Paris is Us,” “Roaring 20’s“ was shot in one uninterrupted single sequence in Paris in the summer of 2020.
The sophomore feature came to life just after the two-month lockdown was lifted in France, and follows Parisians from the sunny banks of the Seine river through the crowded streets of the inner-city as they rejoice and make unexpected encounters. A love letter to Paris, the movie provides a snapshot of this newly-found freedom, lightness and happiness through the city. The film shot across four miles by foot, bike, metro and scooter with 24 actors and a light crew of 16 people.
“”Roading 20’s’ is a very rare film as it captures perfectly the spirit of the time we are currently living in,” said Films Boutique founder Jean-Christophe Simon.
Vogler’s follow-up to “Paris is Us,” “Roaring 20’s“ was shot in one uninterrupted single sequence in Paris in the summer of 2020.
The sophomore feature came to life just after the two-month lockdown was lifted in France, and follows Parisians from the sunny banks of the Seine river through the crowded streets of the inner-city as they rejoice and make unexpected encounters. A love letter to Paris, the movie provides a snapshot of this newly-found freedom, lightness and happiness through the city. The film shot across four miles by foot, bike, metro and scooter with 24 actors and a light crew of 16 people.
“”Roading 20’s’ is a very rare film as it captures perfectly the spirit of the time we are currently living in,” said Films Boutique founder Jean-Christophe Simon.
- 4/21/2021
- by Elsa Keslassy
- Variety Film + TV
After Sundance, which saw sustained dealmaking activity on select titles, the film industry is gearing up for the virtual European Film Market, incorporating industry and press screenings of Berlin Film Festival’s program. With little sense of when the theatrical business can restart across the world, anxiety in the independent sector is edging up, added to the growing competition from streaming giants.
The EFM, the world’s second-biggest film market, is a place where sales agents traditionally launch movies with strong theatrical appeal, and this year they will need to double up on their marketing efforts to trigger the interest of distributors who are either cash-strapped or overburdened with postponed releases.
“We’re in a ruthless world with new variants,” says Memento’s Emilie Georges. “The more we advance the thicker is the fog. The challenge is to deploy enough efforts to make films exist within the small window of...
The EFM, the world’s second-biggest film market, is a place where sales agents traditionally launch movies with strong theatrical appeal, and this year they will need to double up on their marketing efforts to trigger the interest of distributors who are either cash-strapped or overburdened with postponed releases.
“We’re in a ruthless world with new variants,” says Memento’s Emilie Georges. “The more we advance the thicker is the fog. The challenge is to deploy enough efforts to make films exist within the small window of...
- 2/24/2021
- by Elsa Keslassy and Leo Barraclough
- Variety Film + TV
A host of features in post-production will be in the spotlight from 20-22 January within the Industry Village, which will unspool entirely online. On the heels of the festival itself in December (see the awards news) and the Distributors/Exhibitors Summit (which enjoyed a very high level of participation), it’s now time for the Industry Village of the 12th Les Arcs Film Festival to make the leap almost entirely online because of the health crisis. The event will take place from 20-22 January.On the menu are a raft of events: the Coproduction Village market (boasting 18 projects in development – see the article), the Talent Village (sponsored by French director Laurent Cantet, with physical, in-person workshops in Paris that will be led by Katrin Pors, Jean-Christophe Simon, Paolo Moretti and Rebecca Delannet, and featuring an award that...
The selection includes upcoming films by Nathalie Alvarez Mesén, Damien Manival, Valentyn Vasyanovych and Olmo Omerzu.
The 12th edition of France’s Les Arcs Film Festival has its unveiled Work in Progress line-up and announced its entire industry programme is moving online. It will take place from January 20 to 22, due to the ongoing Covid-19 pandemic.
The Work in Progress will present 17 upcoming films in post-production to producers, sales agents and festival programmers.
They include Magdala by French director Damien Manival, who won best director at Locarno in 2019 for his drama Isadora’s Children; Reflection by Ukrainian director Valentyn Vasyanovych, whose...
The 12th edition of France’s Les Arcs Film Festival has its unveiled Work in Progress line-up and announced its entire industry programme is moving online. It will take place from January 20 to 22, due to the ongoing Covid-19 pandemic.
The Work in Progress will present 17 upcoming films in post-production to producers, sales agents and festival programmers.
They include Magdala by French director Damien Manival, who won best director at Locarno in 2019 for his drama Isadora’s Children; Reflection by Ukrainian director Valentyn Vasyanovych, whose...
- 1/7/2021
- by Melanie Goodfellow
- ScreenDaily
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