Sony Pictures Classics acquires Cannes drama “Our Little Sister”

PanARMENIAN.Net - Sony Pictures Classics has acquired U.S. distribution rights for the Cannes in-competition drama “Our Little Sister” (“Umimachi Diary”) directed by Hirokazu Kore-eda, Variety has learned.

Sold by Wild Bunch, the Japanese family film is an adaptation of Akimi Yoshida’s popular serialized comic about four sisters living in the eponymous city. Cast is headlined by Masami Nagasawa, Haruka Ayase and Suzu Hirose. Kore-eda received a jury prize and an ecumenical prize at Cannes two years ago for “Like Father, Like Son,” and he was also in competition with “Nobody Knows” (2004) and “Distance” (2001). His 2009 film “Air Doll” premiered in Un Certain Regard.

“‘Our Little Sister’ is a perfect match for Sony Classics and we’re really grateful that Wild Bunch and Gaga have entrusted us with this special film,” said Sony Pictures Classics.

In a glowing Variety review, Maggie Lee wrote: “‘Our Little Sister’ is Kore-eda’s fourth film (after ‘Nobody Knows,’ ‘I Wish’ and ‘Like Father, Like Son’) to center on abandoned children. This time, the protagonists have grown up and seem to cope better in their cozy provincial life, but their trauma is also buried deeper, and the story explores their subconscious desire to reclaim their childhood.”

The movie premieres in Cannes on Thursday, May 14 night.