Neon, the studio behind newly-minted Best Picture winnerParasite, has purchased the buzzyElisabeth MossdramaShirley. Premiering at this year’s Sundance Film Festival and directed byJosephine Decker,Shirleytells the story of a young couple (Odessa YoungandLogan Lerman) who come to stay at the home of famed authorShirley Jackson(Moss) and her husband, Bennington College professorStanley Hyman(played byMichael Stuhlbarg).
PerThe Hollywood Reporter,Shirleyis the second big Sundance purchase made by Neon. No specific numbers were dropped but apparently the studio boughtShirleyfor a number somewhere in the seven-figure range. This is not just a major deal for Neon, but for Decker, too. The arthouse director has been on the rise in recent years, moving from quiet indie releases includingButter on the LatchandThou Wast Mild and Lovelyto more prominent features includingMadeline’s Madelineand nowShirley. This Neon purchase could also lead to good results for both parties as the studio now rides high on the prominence and prestige associated with having a film which haswon not just Best Picturebut also Best International Film, Best Director, and Best Original Screenplay. It’s within the realm of possibility that Neon can shine the same kind of light onShirleyin the coming months and get it the attention it deserves.
Neon also made headlines in recent weeks with its purchase of theAndy SambergandChristina MiliotidramedyPalm Springs. The well-reviewed pic made history at Sundancewhen it soldfor $17,500,000.69, the largest sale in Sundance history. This was especially huge consideringPalm Springswas only expected to sell for around $15 million. In hisreview ofPalm Springs, Collider’s ownAdam Chitwoodteased, “This is a movie that begins as one thing, but then very quickly becomes something entirely different—and it’s downright brilliant.” All things considered, Neon’s head seems to be in the right place when it comes to picking up new releases.
We’ll keep you posted on the theatrical release date forShirleywhen it’s announced. In the meantime, check out our Sundanceinterview withShirleystar Michael Stuhlbargand theSundance review ofShirleyfrom Collider’s own Adam Chitwood.
