Tribeca Film has picked up the North American distribution rights to the dramatic movie, For Ellen, directed by So Yong Kim. The independent drama premiered at Sundance and stars Paul Dano, Jon Heder and Jena Malone. Tribeca’s aiming for a fall theatrical release in select markets, starting on September 5th in New York.
“With a subtle, understated approach, esteemed director So Yong Kim has made a film that is both deeply moving and deeply resonant,” stated Geoff Gilmore, Chief Creative Officer of Tribeca Enterprises, in the official press announcement. “Fueled by a remarkable performance by Paul Dano and delicately directed by Kim, we couldn’t be more excited to share this very special story about a father trying to connect with his young daughter.”
“We look forward to working with Tribeca Film on the release and distribution of For Ellen,” said Kim. We are honored to trust our film with such a talented and passionate team.”
The Plot:
Aspiring rock star Joby Taylor (Paul Dano) has wanted nothing more than to “make it”, having flirted with fame but never crossed over into true success. In the midst of a low period in his life, he agrees to sign divorce papers with his estranged wife (Margarita Levieva) in order to see money from the sale of their home, only to discover that by signing the papers, he will forfeit all custody of his six-year-old daughter, Ellen (newcomer Shaylena Mandigo). With a good-natured lawyer (Jon Heder) unable to make headway in reversing the decision, and a girlfriend (Jena Malone) that represents an era of his life that he might be ready to graduate from, Joby negotiates a visit with his daughter to explore whether he is able to walk away from his child, and whether it might be too late for reconciliation.
For Ellen stems from Kim’s desire to understand her own father, and an imagined confrontation if he ever returned to her. Using the stark beauty and vast farmlands of an American winter as its backdrop, the film charts Joby’s emotional journey as he realizes what he has lost – and what, if anything, can still be saved.
Source: Tribeca Film
