Mangolia Pictures has acquired North American rights to Cheryl Hines’ Serious Moonlight, which had its world premiere in Tribeca.

Actress Hines makes her directorial debut with the story written by Adrienne Shelly before her death. Hines had previously starred in Shelly’s Waitress.

Meg Ryan, Timothy Hutton, Kristen Bell and Justin Long star in the comedy about a woman who holds her husband captive after she discovers he’s been unfaithful.

Magnolia plans to release Serious Moonlight via its Ultra VOD programme, which will launch the film in November on VOD platforms in 50 million households, before its theatrical release in early December.

Producers are Shelly’s husband Andy Ostroy and Waitress producer Michael Roiff for all for A films and Night & Day Pictures.

The deal was negotiated by Magnolia’s Senior Vice President Tom Quinn and Head of Business Affairs Chris Matson, with Andrew Herwitz of the Film Sales Company and attorney John Logigian.

“Cheryl Hines has done a fine job bringing Adrienne Shelly’s final script to life,” said Magnolia President Eamonn Bowles. “Serious Moonlight is a fitting tribute to a sorely missed talent and we’re happy to be bringing it to North American audiences.”

Ostroy added: “We’re very impressed with Magnolia’s distribution model, their savvy team, and their overall vision for Serious Moonlight. I know Adrienne would be proud of this film and thrilled to have another movie of hers in theatres for audiences to see.”

“I’m excited about where Magnolia’s going to take us,” said Hines. “Serious Moonlight is a dark, funny film, which I think audiences are going to really enjoy, especially Meg and Tim’s incredible performances.”

Magnolia previously acquired another Tribeca hit, Conor McPherson’s The Eclipse.

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