The Orchard has acquired North American rights to the acclaimed drama Christine, which premiered in competition at Sundance last week.

Based on a true story, Antonio Campos’ film centers on the tragic life of Christine Chubbuck, a 29 year old ambitious news reporter in Sarasota FL in the 1970s. Troubled by a tumultuous home life, unrequited love for a co-worker, and a work environment at odds with her principles, Chubbuck committed suicide live on air. Rebecca Hall (The Gift) is receiving early Oscar buzz for her performance as Chubbuck and The Orchard has committed to an awards campaign for Hall in the fall. Emmy-nominated and Golden Globe winner Michael C. Hall (for TV’s Dexter) is cast opposite Hall. Campos’ Borderline Films produced the feature.

According to Indiewire, The Orchard’s SVP of Film and Television Paul Davidson said, “Christine is one of the most enthralling and compelling films we saw at Sundance and Rebecca Hall’s performance is simply mesmerizing.” He added, “There are so few films that truly stick with you the way this one does. Antonio’s vision is exceptionally unique and he is precisely the kind of filmmaker we are committed to working with at The Orchard.” We’re so happy that Christine has found a home with The Orchard. Their passion and enthusiasm has truly excited us, and we can’t think of a better partner.”

Director Campos was reciprocally positive, stating, “We’re so happy that Christine has found a home with The Orchard. Their passion and enthusiasm has truly excited us, and we can’t think of a better partner.”

The Orchard earlier acquired Taika Waititi’s popular Hunt for the Wilderpeople at Sundance, as well as the inspiring autism documentary Life, Animated, which won the directing award in the U.S. documentary competition and is also being touted as Oscar-worthy.

Christine will be released theatrically later this year.