What's Happening?
The Paris- and Berlin-based company Salaud Morisset has acquired international rights to the film 'If I Go Will They Miss Me,' directed by Walter Thompson-Hernández. The film is set to premiere at the Sundance
Film Festival in the Next section. It is an adaptation of Thompson-Hernández's short film, which won the Short Film Jury Award in the U.S. Fiction category at Sundance in 2022. The film, produced by Josh Peters, Saba Zerehi, and Ben Stillman, explores themes of family and legacy through the story of a 12-year-old boy named Lil Ant, who experiences surreal visions that connect him to his father. The film is noted for its blend of social and magical realism, set in a working-class neighborhood of Los Angeles.
Why It's Important?
The acquisition of international rights by Salaud Morisset highlights the growing interest in diverse storytelling and the global appeal of films that explore complex social themes. Walter Thompson-Hernández, a Southeast Los Angeles native and former New York Times reporter, brings a unique perspective to the film industry, emphasizing the importance of representation and authentic narratives. The film's success at Sundance and its subsequent international distribution could pave the way for more films that address similar themes, potentially influencing the types of stories that are told in mainstream cinema.
