Dark Star Pictures has acquired North American rights to “Zenithal,” a kung fu comedy directed by Jean-Baptiste Saurel, an up-and-coming filmmaker whose previous short, “The Dickslap,” premiered at Cannes’ Critics Week.
“Zenithal” is being represented in international markets by Best Friend Forever, which will unveil an exclusive promo reel at the EFM. Currently in post-production, the film will world premiere this year.
“‘Zenithal’ is unique in its genre and content, and marketing possibilities are infinite,” said Dark Star Pictures president Michael Repsch, who negotiated the deal with Charles Bin, co-founder of Best Friend Forever. “‘Zenithal’ [can reach] such diverse audiences as genre lovers, younger Gen Z and X, sex positives or just couples,” added Repsch.
Saurel’s directorial credits include “Parallels,” the Disney+ series. He’s also set to direct the highly anticipated TV reboot of “Zorro” starring Jean Dujardin. “Zenithal,” which expands on “The Dickslap,” is an action-packed comedy revolving around the death of famous kung fu master Ti-Kong.
“Zenithal” stars Vanessa Guide (“30 Days Left”), Franc Bruneau, Cyril Guei (“Full Time”), Xavier Lacaille (“Parliament”) and Bruno Gouery (“Emily in Paris”). The production crew includes cinematographer Yann Maritaud (“The Big Hit”) and stunt coordinator Samuel Kefi Abrikh, who worked on films such as “Valerian,” “Dunkirk” and “Mission: Impossible — Fallout.”
The film is produced by French outfit Kazak Prods. (“Titane”) and will be released in the France by the Jokers Films (“Parasite”).
Best Friend Forever is attending the Berlinale with “Shambhala,” the first Nepalese film to premiere in competition at a major festival.
