Sundance Film Festival

Press Release

Andrew Herwitz, president of the The Film Sales Company, announced that the company has acquired worldwide (less UK) sales and US distribution rights to the documentary Derek. Directed by famed artist and filmmaker Issac Julien (Looking for Langston, Young Soul Rebels), the film was written and is narrated by 2007 Academy Award Nominee Tilda Swinton. Funded by Film London, Channel 4, MoMA and the Sundance Documentary Fund, the film was produced by Eliza Mellor and Colin MacCabe and executive produced by Swinton and James Mackay.

Having had its’ world premiere in the World Cinema Documentary Competition section at the 2008 Sundance Film Festival, Derek explores the life and circle of iconic and iconoclastic filmmaker/artist Derek Jarman. It spans Jarman’s life from the swinging rhythm of the 60’s through the neo repression of the 80’s.

Julien says “Andrew’s passion for the film and understanding of the distinct and varied audiences for the movie made this a perfect fit for his company.”

The Film Sales Company will commence the US release of the film later in the year. It will also be shown at the upcoming Berlin Int’l Film Festival in the Panorama section. Both Julien and Swinton will be on hand for this European Premiere.