Exclusive News in the Film Industry

The Paris-based film company, ESC Films, has acquired the rights to the animated thriller "Dog of God" for distribution in France. This deal was made before the film’s world premiere at the Tribeca Film Festival in June.

Introduction to the Film

The film was initially introduced in Cannes by the Berlin-based sales company, Media Move, ahead of its New York debut. "Dog of God" is directed by Lauris Abele and Raitis Abele and produced under their film production company, Tritone Studio. Ivo Briedis and Harijs Grundmanis are also credited as part of the production team.

Plot and Style

The film follows a different path compared to the Oscar-nominated Latvian animated film "Flow." While "Flow" was more family-oriented, "Dog of God" is a twisted work aimed at adults. The movie utilizes redoscope animation to tell the story of a woman accused of witchcraft in a 17th-century deeply religious Livonian community, where the presence of a werewolf is revealed during her trial.

Production and Cast

The Latvian production features the voices of Jurgis Spurenieks, Kristian Karelin, Einars Repse, Agate Krista, Regnars Vaivars, and Armands Bergis. The producers include Raitis Abele for Tritone Studio and Kristele Pudane, with Giovanni Labadessa as a co-producer.

Director’s Statement

The directors, Lauris Abele and Raitis Abele, shared their experience working on "Dog of God," describing it as a "strange and intensive experience." They expressed their gratitude to Media Move for taking on the film and look forward to seeing how it will be received by audiences worldwide.

Distribution Deal

The French rights contract was negotiated by Justyna Koronkiewicz on behalf of Media Move and Eric Saquet for ESC Films. Koronkiewicz praised "Dog of God" for standing out in the horror genre, citing its unique atmosphere, topic, and animation. She expressed enthusiasm for helping the filmmakers bring the movie to an international audience.

Upcoming Festivals

The film is set to premiere at the Tribeca Film Festival, followed by other genre festivals. These events will further showcase the film’s appeal and help introduce it to a broader audience. With its acquisition by ESC Films for French distribution, "Dog of God" is poised to make a significant impact in the international film scene.