Having recently surpassed the €1M mark at the Irish box office, Peter Foott’s feature debut ‘The Young Offenders’ has gone on to garner international attention, including its recent acquisition by Carnaby International Sales & Distribution at AFM.
Lorianne Hall of Carnaby talks to IFTN about the attraction of the hit Irish comedy and lovable pair Conor and Jock, portrayed by Chris Walley and Alex Murphy.
The UK-based company has acquired all international rights, excluding English-speaking countries, which have previously gone to XYZ. Other recent titles include Amanda Sharp’s comedy drama ‘Sticky Notes’ and Chris Foggin’s ‘Kids in Love.'
Lorianne Hall, Senior Manager, Sales and Acquisitions:
“Being a fan of Irish film, and Irish humour in particular, I was automatically drawn to the film. I was familiar with Peter’s show Republic of Telly and knew that the film would be funny but when I saw it, it wasn’t just funny, it was brilliant. I knew it was going to be a hit.
But what really impressed me and what I think makes it universal is the heart in the film and how subtly that was achieved. For example I think the ending of the film is just excellent and so moving but hilarious at the same time. Everyone knows a Conor or a Jock and has a soft spot for the lovable loser. No matter where you are or what language you speak their “holiday” adventure was sure to strike a cord with everyone.
Peter has such a light and honest touch with his story telling which allows people to really relate to this story and the characters. You laugh but also love the characters and their flaws. He tells human stories that are funny as, with warmth and kindness and I am sure he is going to have an amazing career ahead. It’s for all of those reason I wanted to be involved with this film and bring Peter’s talent and these two jokers to the rest of the world.”
Hall has over two decades of experience in the film and television industry, having previously worked with Warner Brothers, Shooting Stars Distribution and Scanbox Entertainment, to name a few.
She has previously been responsible for acquiring the ‘Taken’ franchise starring Liam Neeson, ‘The Place Beyond the Pines’ (Derek Cianfrance) and more recently ‘The Little Prince’ directed by Mark Osborne. In Ireland she has also consulted for Screen Training Ireland and the Irish Film Board.
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