Footage Films Announces January Release for Psychological Thriller 'Leave'

What's Happening?

Footage Films has announced the release date for its upcoming psychological thriller 'Leave,' set to hit theaters on January 16, coinciding with the Martin Luther King Jr. holiday weekend. Directed by Chris Stokes, the film stars Shalet Monique, Stephen Barrington, and V. Bozeman, among others. 'Leave' is inspired by the historical settlement town of Freemanville, Florida, established by freed enslaved people after the Civil War. The story follows architect Jesse Hughes, who relocates his family to a remote countryside home in an attempt to mend his fractured marriage. However, the family soon encounters unexpected visitors, challenging their hopes for a fresh start. The film is produced by Footage Films Studios and distributed by Falling Forward Films.

Why It's Important?

The release of 'Leave' marks a strategic effort by Footage Films to revitalize theater attendance among urban communities, which has seen a decline. Chris Stokes, the founder and chairman of Footage Films, aims to leverage the company's success on streaming platforms like BET+ and Tubi to draw audiences back to cinemas. This move could influence other production companies to focus on theatrical releases, potentially boosting the film industry's recovery post-pandemic. The film's historical context also highlights the importance of diverse storytelling in mainstream cinema, offering audiences a narrative rooted in African American history.

What's Next?

Following the release of 'Leave,' Footage Films plans to continue its momentum with the theatrical debut of Stokes' sci-fi thriller 'Run' on August 29. The success of these films could lead to more projects aimed at engaging urban audiences in theaters. Additionally, the reception of 'Leave' may prompt discussions on the representation of African American history in film, encouraging more productions that explore similar themes. Stakeholders in the film industry will likely monitor the box office performance to assess the viability of targeting niche audiences for theatrical releases.