Topic Studios has signed a first-look deal with The Climb producers Michael Angelo Covino and Kyle Marvin in the run-up to the film’s Canadian premiere in Toronto on Thursday.
Under the two-year deal, the producers will develop and produce with an eye to directing features for Topic through their Watch This Ready label.
The Climb marked Covino’s feature directorial debut based on the screenplay he wrote with Marvin. The film premiered in Cannes Un Certain Regard and centres on a lifelong friendship between two friends spanning years, marriages, heartbreaks, and conflicts.
Topic Studios developed, financed and produced the feature on a fast track after it acquired the short film of the same name at the 2018 Sundance Film Festival.
The Climb won Un Certain Regard jury’s “Coup de Coeur” Award and was acquired by Sony Pictures Classics. The film just received its North American premiere at Telluride, and screens in Toronto’s Contemporary World Cinema section.
“In our first project out of the gate, Michael and Kyle created an incredibly funny, original and endearing film that defies categorization,” said Topic Studios executive vice-president Maria Zuckerman. “We love their sensibility and are excited to partner with these multi-talented creative souls as they explore the world through their unique lens.”
“We had an amazing experience working with Topic Studios on The Climb and look forward to continuing our relationship with them,” said Covino and Marvin. “It’s hard enough convincing people to make one of your crazy ideas into a movie. When Topic said they were interested in all of our crazy ideas, we couldn’t say no!”
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