Music Box Acquires Cannes Directors’ Fortnight Baseball Comedy ‘Eephus’ by Carson Lund (EXCLUSIVE)

As a film enthusiast with a soft spot for underdog stories and a penchant for movies that explore the human condition through unconventional lenses, I am genuinely intrigued by “Eephus.” Having spent countless hours on small-town baseball fields myself (though my pitching skills are more reminiscent of a pop fly than an Eephus), the premise resonates deeply. The fact that it’s been praised as an adorably existential, off-kilter take on the sports movie only makes it more enticing.


Music Box Films has obtained the U.S. distribution rights for Carson Lund‘s comedy-drama “Eephus,” which debuted in Cannes’ Directors’ Fortnight. This film was recently chosen as an Official Selection of the New York Film Festival and will make its North American premiere there.

The music box will be released in theaters across the country, with subsequent availability for home viewing. A global sales and production company located in London and Paris, Film Constellation, facilitated this release and brokered the deal on behalf of the movie creators.

“Eephus” – A Tale from Soldiers Field, a Small-Town New England Baseball Ground

As a devoted cinephile, I can’t help but echo the excitement surrounding “Eephus” at this year’s Cannes Film Festival. The esteemed critic Jessica Kiang from our team has hailed it as an “adorably existential, off-beat sports movie,” which is quite a unique label! What really grabbed my attention are the nuggets of practical wisdom and sparkles of melancholic wit that make ‘Eephus’ truly shine. In other words, this film is nothing short of a gem, one not to be missed at the festival.

“The movie ‘Eephus’ marks the first time at the helm for director Carson Lund, an American filmmaker who has previously worked as a cinematographer on films such as ‘Christmas Eve in Miller’s Point’, ‘Topology of Sirens’, and ‘Ham on Rye’.”

As a film enthusiast who has spent countless hours poring over credits and researching cast lists, I find it truly exciting to see such a talented ensemble come together for this upcoming project. The presence of Keith Richards, known for his electrifying performances in “Uncut Gems” and “Ponyboi,” alongside Wayne Diamond from the critically acclaimed “Uncut Gems,” piques my interest right away. I’ve also followed Keith Poulson’s career since his roles in “The Sweet East” and “Between the Temples,” so it’s fantastic to see him involved as well.

Music Box Films boasts a wide variety of film releases, including biographical documentary “Ennio” by Giuseppe Tornatore, Venice Competition drama “Other People’s Children” by Rebecca Zlotowski, Cannes romantic comedy “The Nature of Love” by Monia Chokri, American independent films like “Fremont,” “The Unknown Country” and “Give Me Liberty,” and the winner of the 2024 Sundance U.S. Dramatic Competition Grand Jury Prize, “In the Summers.”

As a cinephile, I’m ecstatic about collaborating with Music Box Films. This esteemed company boasts an array of unique directors such as Terence Davies, Christian Petzold, and Sean Baker. Their shared passion for the art of filmmaking mirrors our own, especially in regards to ‘Eephus’. Given its expansive widescreen presentation, humorous ensemble cast, and immersive surround sound design, a theatrical experience is crucial for fully appreciating this masterpiece.

“Similar to an unexpected Eephus pitch, Carson Lund’s first feature film crept up on us gradually, according to Brian Andreotti from Music Box. This extended, low-key match between two amateur baseball teams in a small Massachusetts town served as a subtle reflection of changing times and a vivid portrayal of a disappearing regional charm associated with America’s pastime. We weren’t anticipating a crude yet heartfelt, nostalgic baseball comedy on the Croisette, but exceptional cinema transcends all settings.”

I’m thrilled to share that “Eephus” is a creation brought to life by the talented team consisting of Lund, Tyler Taormina, Michael Basta, and David Entin from Omnes Films. It’s also a collaborative effort with Gabe Klinger, Ola Byszuk, Michael Richter (A Major Production), and Kyle Stroud (Carte Blanche). What an incredible group of minds behind this project!

As a passionate cinephile, I’m thrilled to share that this captivating production is brought to us by Michael Tonelli, Ashish Shetty, Brian Clark, and Jim Christman of Magmys, who serve as executive producers. Furthermore, ColdFeet Films and Through the Lens Entertainment have also joined hands to co-produce this masterpiece, making it a collaborative effort that promises an unforgettable cinematic experience.

Nord-Ouest Films boarded “Eephus” prior to Cannes as the film’s French co-producer.

Read More

2024-08-07 16:17