Director Karyn Kusama’s psychological thriller The Invitation, which had its world premiere in the Midnight section of this year’s SXSW fest, has been acquired for worldwide distribution by Drafthouse Films.
The film centers on Will, a family man whose wife disappears after a tragedy befalls their young son. When his now ex-wife, Eden, suddenly resurfaces after a two year absence, he accepts an invitation to a dinner party at his former home with Eden, her new husband, and their new circle of friends. As the evening progresses, Will becomes increasingly paranoid, gradually becoming convinced that the group has more nefarious intentions than just cocktails and hors d’oeuvres.
Logan Marshall-Green (Prometheus) stars as Will, with Tammy Blanchard (Into the Woods) playing Eden. Emayatzy Corinealdi (Middle of Nowhere), Michiel Huisman (World War Z), and John Carroll Lynch (Zodiac) co-star. Kusama (2009’s Jennifer’s Body) directs from screenplay by Phil Hey and Matt Manfredi (Ride Along).
Drafthouse, the distribution arm of the Texas Alamo Drafthouse Cinema theater chain, is known for its keen eye in finding indie films that might thrive in wider release. Kusama, who made a name for herself with the 2000 indie darling Girlfight, expressed her happiness about the acquisition:
We love what they [Drafthouse] do. I’m excited by their passionate enthusiasm for the film and truly honored to be working with them.
No release plans have been set as of yet, but watch this space for details as they arise.
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