Joshua Rivera
Updated on: October 8, 2024 1:04 am GMT
Netflix has officially secured the worldwide rights to the upcoming feature film “Nonnas,” directed by Stephen Chbosky, in a deal valued at over $20 million. The film, which had been anticipated as part of the Toronto International Film Festival (TIFF), will instead receive a global release on the streaming platform in 2025. This significant acquisition comes after a competitive bidding process, indicating strong interest from multiple distributors.
Film Details and Cast
“Nonnas,” scripted by Liz Maccie and based on a true story, stars a notable ensemble cast that includes Vince Vaughn, Susan Sarandon, Lorraine Bracco, Talia Shire, Brenda Vaccaro, Linda Cardellini, Drea De Matteo, Joe Manganiello, and Campbell Scott. In the film, Vaughn portrays Joe, a man whose life takes a turn after the death of his mother, who was famous for her cooking. Struggling with his grief and a dead-end job, Joe decides to fulfill his mother’s legacy by opening an Italian restaurant. To help him achieve this, he forms a unique alliance with a group of Italian grandmothers who not only provide culinary skills but also become surrogate mother figures in his life.
Stephen Chbosky, who previously directed beloved films such as “The Perks of Being a Wallflower” and “Wonder,” brings his expertise in human emotion and familial relationships to this project. The combination of heartfelt storytelling and a comedic angle positions “Nonnas” as a film that many viewers will likely find relatable and uplifting.
Production and Distribution Insights
The film is produced by Gigi Pritzker and Rachel Shane for Madison Wells and Jack Turner for Matador Content. Executive producers include prominent names such as Vince Vaughn and Scott Budnick, emphasizing a collaborative effort that spans various production houses. The deal for “Nonnas” was facilitated by WME Independent and Fifth Season, the studio behind the film.
Commenting on the acquisition, Gigi Pritzker expressed her enthusiasm by stating, “We are delighted that ‘Nonnas’ has found a great home at Netflix, where it will be widely seen and enjoyed. The film focuses on family, food, and community — things we can all celebrate in these turbulent times.” Christopher Slager, Head of Film at Fifth Season, echoed this sentiment by noting Chbosky’s ability to create magic on screen and the excitement surrounding the film’s release.
Impact on TIFF and Other Acquisitions
The decision to pull “Nonnas” from the TIFF lineup is part of a broader trend where certain films forgo traditional festival routes in favor of direct streaming releases. As TIFF approaches, which begins shortly, there has already been notable movement in the film acquisition landscape. Besides “Nonnas,” other films like “Riff Raff” and “Jane Austen Wrecked My Life” have also been acquired, indicating a buyer’s market full of competitive acquisitions this year.
While the festival traditionally serves as a platform for premieres and networking, the shifting dynamics of film distribution and audience consumption have accelerated the popularity of streaming options. The pandemic has altered viewing habits, leading to more direct-to-streaming releases that resonate with wide audiences seeking immediate accessibility.
Chbosky’s Approach and Themes
Chbosky is known for his ability to delve into themes of loss, family bonds, and personal growth. With “Nonnas,” he appears set to continue this trend. The film’s focus on food serves as a powerful metaphor for nurturing relationships and community connections, inviting viewers to explore the intersection between culinary traditions and familial love.
The blending of comedy and poignant themes positions “Nonnas” as a potential standout feature in Netflix’s upcoming slate. With a slew of high-profile actors and Chbosky’s proven track record, audiences can expect not just entertainment but also a thoughtful narrative that resonates deeply.
Conclusion
Netflix is getting ready to launch “Nonnas” worldwide in 2025, and people are really excited about it! This show has a great story, favorite actors, and a talented director named Chbosky. It looks like it will be a wonderful family tale that focuses on food and togetherness. With its special idea and a fun cast, “Nonnas” is sure to connect with anyone who loves warm and heartwarming stories.
