Olivia Wilde Nears Deals for ‘The Invite’ and ‘Leviticus’
Interest in independent films is surging at this year’s Sundance Film Festival. Notably, Olivia Wilde’s latest directorial venture, The Invite, has garnered significant attention.
The Invite: A Promising New Film
Current bids for The Invite have surpassed $10 million, reflecting its popularity among studios. The film made its world premiere at the Eccles Theatre, receiving enthusiastic reactions from the audience.
Stars of The Invite include:
- Seth Rogen
- Edward Norton
- Penélope Cruz
- Olivia Wilde
The film revolves around a couple, played by Rogen and Wilde, who invite two unconventional guests, portrayed by Norton and Cruz, to dinner. The storyline explores themes of marriage and sexual tension, with humor woven throughout.
UTA represents the film in its sales efforts, engaging major players such as A24, Netflix, Searchlight, Focus Features, Black Bear, and Neon.
Leviticus: Exploring New Horror Themes
In addition to The Invite, Neon is entering negotiations for the horror film Leviticus. This production features Mia Wasikowska and marks her return after a three-year hiatus.
The film, which has a budget estimated at around $5 million (excluding Australia and New Zealand), centers on two teenage boys, portrayed by Joe Bird and Stacy Clausen, as they strive to escape a violent entity that embodies their deepest desires. The narrative confronts themes related to conversion and personal identity.
Comparison of Recent Film Deals
| Film Title | Deal Value | Distributor |
|---|---|---|
| The Invite | Over $10 million | Multiple bidders |
| Leviticus | Approx. $5 million | Neon |
| Together | $15 million | Neon |
As negotiations continue, additional projects, like Wicker starring Olivia Colman and Josephine featuring Channing Tatum, are also generating buzz. The potential for closing deals is promising, signaling a bright future for independent cinema.
