NEON’s boutique label SUPER has acquired the U.S. rights to Zachary Wigon’s Sanctuary following its acclaimed world premiere at the Toronto International Film Festival. Written and executive produced by Micah Bloomberg, Sanctuary stars Emmy Award® nominee Margaret Qualley and Christopher Abbott. This marks the second acquisition for SUPER this week, following Alice Diop’s Saint Omer, shortlisted for the French selection for the Academy Awards, which is slated for theatrical release.
“The reaction to Sanctuary upon its world premiere, from both audiences and critics, has been exceptionally validating. Everyone who worked on this film gave so much to it – starting with Micah’s phenomenal script, then Margaret and Chris put forth a superhuman effort, as did our entire crew,” said Wigon. “SUPER has expressed the same degree of enthusiasm and commitment to the project, and I’m honored to have them coming on board.”
Zachary Wigon has brilliantly crafted a subversive cinematic experience that comments on relationship dynamics in thrilling and surprising new ways” said super principals Darcy Heusel and Dan O’Meara “We can’t wait to bring this film to audiences, and for people to see the electric performances from Margaret and Chris – two of the most dynamic actors of their generation.”
A dominatrix (Qualley) and her wealthy client (Abbott) engage in a battle of wills inside a luxury hotel suite after he tries to end their relationship. Over the course of one emotionally fraught night, the balance of power swings back and forth as each seeks to gain the upper hand. Is he hopelessly overmatched? Or is her wildly unpredictable behavior all part of an elaborate game?
Sanctuary is a Rumble Films Production In association with Charades, Mosaic Films, and Hype Studios. It is produced by David Lancaster and Stephanie Wilcox of Rumble Films with Ilya Stewart of Hype Studios and Pavel Burian of Mosaic Films. In addition to Bloomberg, executive producers include Carole Baraton, Yohann Comte, Pierre Mazars of Charades, Elizaveta Chalenko, Maxim Dashkin, Nick Shumaker, as well as Margaret Qualley and screenwriter Micah Bloomberg. Jason Wald negotiated the deal for SUPER, with UTA Independent Film Group who represented the filmmakers. Charades is handling international sales.
