Harvey Weinstein-inspired drama The Assistant is set to receive an early digital release in the UK due to the Covid-19 pandemic.
Vertigo Releasing was set to release the film theatrically on April 3 but the closure of cinemas nationwide in the wake of the coronavirus outbreak put those plans on hold.
The distributor will now make the film available from May 1 on digital platforms including iTunes, Amazon, Sky, Virgin, Google and Microsoft. It will also be available on streaming platforms Curzon Home Cinema and BFI Player as a premium title.
Wahida Niblo, head of distribution at Vertigo, said: “As with all film companies, we are constantly reacting to the changing environment of the coronavirus. However, we feel, now more than ever, this film tackles a timely issue which affects most industries and deserves to be seen by audiences.”
Inspired by real-life stories, The Assistant follows an ambitious young woman, played by Ozark star Julia Garner, who works for a powerful film producer through one day that may define her future.
It marks the debut narrative feature of Kitty Green, who previously directed award-winning documentaries Ukraine Is Not A Brothel and Casting JonBenet. The Assistant debuted at Telluride and went on to play Sundance, Toronto and Berlin.
It is the latest title to receive an early digital release in the UK as a result of the pandemic. Lionsgate releases Military Wives on premium VOD platforms on March 27 while Universal made titles including The Invisible Man, Emma and The Hunt available to audiences early. Smaller, independent releases such as The Perfect Candidate also received digital debuts in the UK in place of planned theatrical releases.
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