Briarcliff Entertainment has acquired domestic distribution rights for the film Magazine Dreams, which features Jonathan Majors in a critically acclaimed performance as an aspiring bodybuilder. The film, which debuted at Sundance with a positive reception, is set for release in early 2025. Directed and written by Elijah Bynum, the film tells the story of Killian Maddox, a troubled young bodybuilder navigating physical and psychological struggles in pursuit of his ambitions.

Jonathan Majors, known for his role in Creed III and upcoming projects in the Marvel universe, underwent a rigorous training regimen for the role, consuming 6,100 calories per day and training six days per week for four months. In the film, Maddox grapples with a series of challenges, including steroid use that takes a toll on his health, and his struggle to connect with others leads him down a dark and obsessive path.

Briarcliff Entertainment’s acquisition follows the film’s earlier uncertainty. After Majors’ arrest and conviction for assault and harassment, Searchlight Pictures, which initially acquired the film, dropped it from its distribution plans. Despite the controversy surrounding Majors, Briarcliff’s Tom Ortenberg sees great value in the film, calling it “a visceral experience that challenges the perceptions of ambition and identity.”

Magazine Dreams also features supporting performances from Haley Bennett, Taylour Paige and Mike O’Hearn. The film earned the U.S. Dramatic Special Jury Award for Creative Vision at Sundance, and it maintains an 82% approval rating on Rotten Tomatoes from over 90 reviews.

The film’s producers include Jennifer Fox, Dan Gilroy, Jeffrey Soros and Simon Horsman, with executive producers Majors, Luke Rodgers and Andrew Blau. “We are honored to bring this extraordinary work to theaters nationwide, inviting audiences to witness a story that will resonate long after the credits roll,” Ortenberg said.

The deal was negotiated by CAA Media Finance for the filmmakers and by Briarcliff Entertainment’s team.