Distributor picks up US rights to Ronald Krauss’ Gimme Shelter, starring Vanessa Hudgens.

Ahead of its world premiere at Heartland Film Festival on Oct 17, Roadside Attractions has acquired US rights to Gimme Shelter.

Ronald Krauss’ drama, which he also produced and wrote, stars Vanessa Hudgens as pregnant 16-year-old runaway Agnes Bailey who seeks salvation in a suburban shelter for homeless teens. The film also stars Brendan Fraser, Rosario Dawson, James Earl Jones and Ann Dowd.

Gimme Shelter is inspired by the true story of Kathy DiFiore’s longstanding Several Sources Shelters. DiFiore (played by Dowd in the film) worked with Mother Teresa to change the shelter lawas in New Jersey.

Krauss financed the film through his Day 28 Films banner, along with producer Jeff Rice and co-producer Joshua Amir.

The deal was negotiated by Roadside co-president Howard Cohen and attorney Greg Bernstein on behalf of Roadside, and by Krauss and attorney Matt Galsor of Greenberg-Glusker on behalf of the filmmakers.

Cohen commented: “Based on a true story, we were moved by Ronald’s film. He poured his heart and soul into Gimme Shelter. And we were quite impressed with Vanessa Hudgens, who delivered a terrific, and transformative, performance.”

Roadside will release the film on Jan 24, 2014.

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