Sundance Horror ‘The Ugly Stepsister’ Sells Wide for Memento (EXCLUSIVE)

The chilling horror spin-off titled ‘The Ugly Stepsister,’ which generated a significant buzz at Sundance, has been acquired globally by Memento International.

Directed by Emilie Blichfeldt, this movie offers a fresh take on a timeless fairy tale with elements of both beauty and horror. It has been pre-purchased for North America, the U.K., and Australia-New Zealand even before its world premiere in Park City. Meanwhile, Mer Film and Scanbox are set to distribute it across Scandinavia.

The movie has been purchased by ESC Films (France), Capelight (Germany and Austria), Beta Films (Spain), Lev Cinema (Israel), ADS (Hungary), Cay Films (Romania), Cine Canibal (Latin America), New Select (Japan), House of M (Thailand), PT Falcon (Indonesia), Estin Film (Baltics) and Vendetta Filmes (Portugal). Talks are said to be happening in Italy, Greece, Ukraine, and other places as well.

In my perspective as a movie critic, ‘The Ugly Stepsister’ delves into the journey of Elvira, who is determined to win the prince’s heart, regardless of the costs. Set in a realm where beauty is ruthlessly pursued, Elvira faces stiff competition from the alluring and captivating Agnes, vying for the title of the ball’s most enchanting lady. The stellar cast includes Lea Myren, Thea Sofie Loch Naess, and Ane Dahl Torp.

As a passionate admirer, I’m thrilled to share that this captivating film is brought to life by Maria Ekerhovd, hailing from Norway at Mer Film, known for masterpieces like “The Innocents,” “War Sailor,” and Joachim Trier’s upcoming “Sentimental Value.” It’s a joint effort with Lizette Jonjic for Zentropa Sweden, who has graced us with “Another Round,” Mariusz Włodarski for Lava Films of Poland, Theis Nørgaard for Motor in Denmark, and Zefyr and Film i Väst. This production is generously supported by the Norwegian Film Institute, the Polish Production Incentive and the Polish Film Institute, the Swedish Film Institute, the Danish Film Institute, Eurimages, DR, Nordisk Film & Tv Fond.

The movie titled ‘The Ugly Stepsister’ will carry on its journey through film festivals, making its European debut in the Panorama segment of the 75th Berlin International Film Festival, scheduled for February 2025.

In celebration of Memento’s 20th anniversary, I’m excited to be part of a lineup that includes the Sundance Grand Jury Prize winner, “Atropia.” Additionally, I’m thrilled about the Berlin Panorama feature, “Dreams in Nightmares,” directed by Shatara Michelle Ford. The Berlinale Special film, “Ancestral Visions of the Future,” directed by Lemohang Mosese, is also on the list. Lastly, I can’t wait for Haifaa Al-Mansour’s crime thriller, “Unidentified.” These films promise an incredible journey through diverse narratives and storytelling styles.

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2025-02-10 12:46