On the Count of Three, Jerrod Carmichael’s directorial debut has been acquired by Megan Ellison’s Annapurna Pictures for North America. The film stars Carmichael, Christopher Abbott, Tiffany Haddish, J.B. Smoove, Henry Winkler and Lavell Crawford.

On the Count of Three was scripted by writers of the Hulu series Ramy and a co-production by Valparaiso Pictures and Werner Entertainment. and follows two best friends who try to carry out a pact to end their lives before the day ends. This was the first major festival acquisition for Annapurna since the banner narrowly avoided bankruptcy in 2019 by restructuring its debt.

“[Ellison’s] commercial vision for daring independent films is unparalleled, and we couldn’t feel luckier to find a home with her,” said producer Adam Paulsen of Valparaiso. “I was fortunate enough early in my career to witness firsthand how she championed Spring Breakers in a way no one else saw, and most recently on Sorry to Bother You and countless others.”

Carmichael’s film has received high praise since its debut, earning an 84% critic score on Rotten Tomatoes with 56 reviews. Reviews call the film a successful blend of drama and dark comedic elements. On the Count of Three also took home the Waldo Salt Screenwriting Award at Sundance.