The buyers keep coming at the Toronto Film festival as Lionsgate acquires three highly acclaimed films.
Earlier in the week Variety announced that Lionsgate had acquired Kristen Wig's followup to Bridesmaids "Imogene." The film revolves around a playwright whose potential has fizzled, thanks to a crippling crisis of confidence. According to distributor Lionsgate it will team up with Roadsie Attractions for the release.
Their second highly acclaimed acquisition is the Gwyneth Paltrow and Mark Ruffalo starrer "Thanks for Sharing." The film which tells the story of sex addicts comes on the heels of last year's dark sex addiction drama by Steve McQueen "Shame." However unlike Shame this film is a dramedy and features more well known actors. Lionsgate's acquired the film for an estimated $2 million.
Finally there last was Joss Whedon's "Much Ado about Nothing." The film based on the Shakespeare play was reportedly shot in 12 days as Joss Whedon director of "The Avengers" took a break from Hollywood Blockbusters. The film stars friends and actors from "Buffy the Vampire Slayer." Lionsgate's said that they are thrilled to be working with Whedon again especially after their success with "Cabin the Woods."
One of the other biggest acqusitions was Neil Jordan's "Byzantium" starring Saorise Ronan and Gemma Arterton. The film will be distributed by IFC and is likely to come out next year.
Activity has been high this year in the market. However many films are still seeking distribution such as "The Iceman," "To The Wonder," "Yellow," and "Great Expectations." The film festival runs through the 16th and many films have yet to premiere.