YARMOUTH, N.S. — The length of time between the filming and release of a movie can be quite long says a former Yarmouthian who now works as the manager of publicity and promotions for Elevation Pictures in Toronto.
Kate Parkes' employer released Robert Eggers last film The Witch. It also released The Florida Project, starring Willem Dafoe; and Good Time starring Robert Pattinson.
“We work closely with A24 on a lot of their releases,” she said.
From March to May 2018, The Lighthouse, an A24 production starring Willem Dafoe and Robert Pattinson, was partially shot on the tip of the Cape Forchu Lighthouse property, as well as in a hangar at the Yarmouth airport.
People are chafing at the bit to see the movie at their local theatre. It could be a while yet.
Parkes says after producers make their film they sell off territories around the world. Distributors are keen to obtain those that show strong promise such as The Lighthouse.
VVS Films is the company that has gained the right to distribute The Lighthouse in Canada.
Parkes says Eggers could decide to enter The Lighthouse in more film festivals to help build buzz for the film.
The Witch had its world premiere at the Sundance Film Festival in January 2015. The film was also screened in the special presentations section of the Toronto International Film Festival, on Sept. 18, 2015.
There’s a chance The Lighthouse could follow a trajectory similar to The Witch and it may also be entered in the FIN International Film Festival this September before its release.
The Witch was released in the United States on Feb. 19, 2016.
The Lighthouse received an avalanche of positive reviews at the Cannes Film Festival in May.
“Any accolades they (directors) receive are the cherry on the top. They hope that it’s well received and well liked. I think Eggers’ is one of the few horror directors right now that people are really interested in, especially with the horror genre,” said Parkes.
“A24 is a phenomenal production and US distributor to work with as well. They have an eye for films,” she said.
Parkes said it’s important to support films like this, no matter where you are.
“It made me so proud to see that so many people went to see Maudie, because it was such a special film and people did notice it. She recalls that Yarmouth over-performed Halifax when it came to the Maudie showing and recommends that folks become vocal if the film is slow to reach this region.
“I’m confident it will open in Yarmouth eventually but would suggest people get on social media and let Cineplex know you’d like to see it.”