Introduction to Black Bear’s Latest Acquisition
Black Bear’s young US theater distribution surgery is reportedly assuming the US rights to The Rivals of the AMZIAH King, a film starring Matthew McConaughey that received strong reviews after its SXSW World Premiere at the beginning of this year.
Background on the Film
Two years ago, Black Bear went on international sales in Cannes on the Oklahoma-set crime thriller drama via an beekeeper who again combines, fully financed, produced, and started. The feature pulled a rousing answer from the SXSW audience in Austin, Texas, but has so far remained on the table.
Black Bear’s Ambitious Plans
With a pipeline for filling, however, the ambitious Black Bear could take over a film that it made and tried to sell to another dealer. The new department, led by President Ben Kramer, has just hired the former Lionsgate Distribution Supremo David Spitz to lead the US distribution. This move suggests that Black Bear is serious about expanding its presence in the US market.
Release Plans and Awards Potential
To close a transaction, it remains to be seen whether The Rivals of the AMZIAH King would land a slot in 2025 and possible awards or be held back for 2026. Black Bear representatives have not returned calls because trading press reports appeared on Friday afternoon. The fact that a recognized feature remained on the table for so long speaks to the careful nature of the US sales sector.
Challenges in the US Sales Sector
In recent years, buyers have been shaken by a pandemic, Hollywood strikes, cost cuts, the persistent prevalence of streaming, and the challenge of standing out in a competitive market. This has made it difficult for films to get picked up, even if they have received positive reviews.
Black Bear’s Other Projects
Black Bear has its pawprints on two acquisition titles, the next month in TIFF premiere Christy directed by David Michôd; and supports and processes international sales for Dustin Hoffman and Leo Woodall, Daniel Roher’s attack thriller lead Tuner, which Uta Independent Film Group for North America represents. McConaughey also plays in the TIFF World Premiere by Paul Greengrass The Lost Bus from Apple Original Films.
