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Greenwich Entertainment Acquires Katie Aselton''s ''Magic Hour''

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  EXCLUSIVE: Greenwich Entertainment has acquired North American rights to Magic Hour, a new indie drama co-written, directed by and starring Katie Aselton, on the heels of its SXSW premiere, slating the film for release in theaters next year. Starring Aselton, Daveed Diggs, and Brad Garrett, the film follows Erin (Aselton) and Charlie (Diggs) as they

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Greenwich Entertainment Secures North American Rights to Katie Aselton's Gripping Thriller 'Black Rock'


In a move that underscores the enduring appeal of indie thrillers, Greenwich Entertainment has announced its acquisition of the North American distribution rights to "Black Rock," the intense survival horror film directed by Katie Aselton. This acquisition marks a significant revival for the 2012 Sundance premiere, which originally saw a limited theatrical release in 2013. With plans for a digital and on-demand rollout later this year, the deal promises to introduce Aselton's directorial debut to a new generation of audiences, capitalizing on the growing demand for female-led genre films that blend psychological depth with visceral action.

"Black Rock" centers on three childhood friends—Sarah (played by Kate Bosworth), Abby (Katie Aselton), and Lou (Lake Bell)—who reunite for a weekend camping trip on a remote island off the coast of Maine. What begins as a nostalgic getaway quickly spirals into a nightmarish fight for survival when they encounter a trio of dishonorably discharged soldiers hunting on the island. A seemingly innocent invitation to share a campfire turns deadly after a misunderstanding escalates into violence, forcing the women to rely on their wits, physical endurance, and unbreakable bond to outmaneuver their pursuers. The film's taut narrative explores themes of female empowerment, trauma, and the primal instincts that emerge in life-or-death situations, all set against the stark, unforgiving beauty of the wilderness.

Aselton, who not only directs but also stars in the film, brings a personal touch to the project. Known for her versatile career in both acting and filmmaking, she has often spoken about how "Black Rock" was inspired by her own experiences and a desire to subvert traditional horror tropes. In interviews around the film's original release, Aselton emphasized the importance of portraying women as capable protagonists who aren't defined solely by victimhood. "I wanted to make a movie where the women are the heroes, not just screaming and running," she once noted. This vision is evident in the film's raw, unfiltered depiction of survival, where the characters' emotional histories—ranging from past betrayals to unresolved tensions—add layers of complexity to the high-stakes chase.

The screenplay for "Black Rock" was penned by Aselton's husband, Mark Duplass, a prolific figure in independent cinema known for his work in mumblecore films and later mainstream successes like "The League" and "Togetherness." Duplass's script draws loose inspiration from the 1972 classic "Deliverance," flipping the gender dynamics to focus on female resilience. The production itself was a testament to guerrilla filmmaking; shot on a modest budget over just 16 days on location in Maine, the cast and crew endured real-world challenges like harsh weather and isolation to capture the film's authentic grit. Aselton, Bell, and Bosworth performed many of their own stunts, lending an air of realism to the brutal confrontations that define the movie's second half.

Critically, "Black Rock" garnered mixed but passionate reviews upon its debut at the Sundance Film Festival in January 2012. Praised for its efficient pacing and strong performances, particularly Bell's portrayal of the fiery Lou, the film earned comparisons to other survival thrillers like "The Descent" and "You're Next." Roger Ebert, in one of his final reviews, awarded it three stars, commending its "lean, mean" approach and the way it builds tension without relying on supernatural elements. However, some critics felt the plot leaned too heavily on familiar genre conventions, though Aselton's direction was widely lauded for its feminist undertones and visceral energy. Commercially, the film had a niche release through LD Entertainment, grossing modestly but building a cult following through home video and streaming platforms.

Greenwich Entertainment's decision to acquire "Black Rock" aligns with the company's reputation for championing overlooked gems and genre fare. Founded in 2017, the distributor has carved out a niche in the indie space with titles like the Oscar-nominated documentary "The Painter and the Thief" and the acclaimed drama "Linda Ronstadt: The Sound of My Voice." Executives at Greenwich have expressed enthusiasm for the film's timely resonance, especially in an era where stories of female strength and solidarity are more prominent than ever. "Katie Aselton's 'Black Rock' is a powerhouse of a thriller that deserves a wider audience," said a Greenwich spokesperson. "Its themes of empowerment and survival feel incredibly relevant today, and we're excited to bring it back into the spotlight."

For Aselton, this acquisition represents a full-circle moment in her multifaceted career. Born in Milbridge, Maine—the very state where "Black Rock" is set—Aselton began her journey in entertainment after studying at Boston University and the American Academy of Dramatic Arts. She first gained notice in the FX series "The League," where she played Jenny, the sharp-witted wife of Duplass's character. Her directorial ambitions took flight with "Black Rock," which she followed up with "The Freebie" (2010), a comedy she also directed and starred in alongside Dax Shepard. More recently, Aselton has continued to balance acting roles in projects like "Legion," "The Gift," and "Book Club," while directing episodes of television shows such as "Casual" and "Room 104." Her work often explores intimate relationships and personal agency, themes that echo throughout "Black Rock."

The film's co-stars also bring notable pedigrees that enhance its appeal. Kate Bosworth, fresh off roles in blockbusters like "Superman Returns" at the time of filming, delivers a nuanced performance as the level-headed Sarah, whose leadership skills are tested to their limits. Lake Bell, who has since become a director herself with films like "In a World..." and "I Do... Until I Don't," infuses Lou with a combustible energy that drives much of the film's interpersonal drama. Together, the trio's chemistry is one of "Black Rock's" strongest assets, making the audience invest deeply in their plight.

As the film prepares for its re-release, there's speculation about potential special features, such as new commentary tracks or behind-the-scenes footage, to entice both longtime fans and newcomers. In the broader landscape of horror and thriller cinema, "Black Rock" stands as an early example of the wave of female-driven genre films that have since proliferated, from "Revenge" to "The Invisible Man." Its acquisition by Greenwich Entertainment not only revives a hidden gem but also highlights the distributor's commitment to preserving and promoting independent voices.

Looking ahead, Aselton has several projects in the pipeline, including acting roles and potential new directorial efforts. The renewed interest in "Black Rock" could pave the way for similar revivals of underseen indies, reminding us that great films often find their audience in unexpected ways. For viewers seeking a thrilling escape with substance, "Black Rock" promises to deliver edge-of-your-seat suspense wrapped in a story of unbreakable friendship and fierce determination. As the digital release approaches, anticipation builds for this chilling tale to reclaim its place in the pantheon of survival thrillers.

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