Melancholia close to selling out

by Domenico La Porta

17/05/2011 - Australian distributor Madman and Israeli distributor Lev Cinemas have bought the rights to Lars von Trier’s Melancholia [trailer, film focus], ahead of the film’s Cannes premiere, May 18.

“We are thrilled to be handling the release of Melancholia in Australia and New Zealand. Lars is one of the great auteurs and Melancholia has a visual richness and beauty that is immediately compelling. Whilst we don't expect him to fly to Australia for our release, we know that his reputation already precedes the film in our territory and there is already real anticipation for the release,” said Madman in a statement.

“It makes so much sense for us to work with one of the greatest auteurs of his generation. His singular vision for this project is compelling and important and it is personally rewarding for me to continue our relationship,” said Lev Cinemas in a statement.

International sales agent TrustNordisk has now sold Melancholia to over 30 territories, almost selling it out.

International distributors include Artificial Eye (UK), Les Films du Losange (France), Golem (Spain), Concorde (Germany and Austria), Wild Bunch (Benelux) and BIM (Italy).

Melancholia will be released in Scandinavia by Nordisk Film Distribution after Cannes. Magnolia Pictures will distribute the film in the US and Canada.