Normal People secures US distribution
Date Posted: December 4, 2018
Bleecker Street announced it has secured U.S. distribution rights to Lisa Barros D’Sa and Glenn Leyburn’s Normal People. Normal People is the third feature from the directing duo following the critically acclaimed Good Vibrations (2012) and Cherrybomb (2009).
Lesley Manville and Liam Neeson star as an everyday couple with an extraordinary love, who must find the humor and grace to face a year of adversity.
The film was written by award-winning Irish playwright, Owen McCafferty, and is produced by Brian J. Falconer, David Holmes and Piers Tempest. Executive producers are Natascha Wharton for the BFI, Stephen Kelliher for Bankside Films, Jo Bamford for Tempo Productions, Phil Hunt and Compton Ross for Head Gear Films/Metrol Technology and Mark Huffam.
Andrew Karpen, CEO of Bleecker Street said, “This is such a beautiful story of love and commitment as portrayed between two of the world’s most talented actors. It’s magical to watch as they find strength and an ever-deepening connection.”
Directors Lisa Barros D’Sa and Glenn Leyburn said “Normal People has been a labour of love for our incredible cast and creative team. We’re thrilled now to partner with Bleecker Street, who have such a strong history in distributing compelling, thought-provoking films. We look forward to an exciting journey with Andrew and the team.”
Shot on location in Northern Ireland, the film is currently in post-production and will be theatrically released in 2019.
A Canderblinks Films and Out of Orbit production, Normal People has been financed by the British Film Institute (using National Lottery funds) and Northern Ireland Screen with support from the Department for the Economy in association with Head Gear Films, Metrol Technology and Kreo Films.
The deal was negotiated between Kent Sanderson and Camille Bertrand on behalf of Bleecker Street with CAA Media Finance and Bankside Films on behalf of the filmmakers.
