Grasshopper Film nabs buzz doc “Nicola Costantino: The Artefacta”

PanARMENIAN.Net - New indie distribution shingle Grasshopper Film has acquired all North American rights to buzz documentary “Nicola Costantino: The Artefacta”, about one of Latin America’s most controversial artists. They are partnering with on-demand streaming Fandor for its combined day-and-date premium SVOD and theatrical release in the U.S. this spring, Variety reports.

Grasshopper Film is founded by Ryan Krivoshey, former acquisitions chief of New York-based boutique distributor the Cinema Guild. His new company, which just launched at Berlin’s EFM mart, plans to release eight to 12 titles theatrically per year and more than 50 pics on VOD, digital and nontraditional outlets.

Helmed by Italian editor-turned-director Natalie Cristiani, “The Artefacta” world premiered at Canada’s HotDocs 2015 to a positive reception and more recently screened at the BFI London Film Festival, during which it screened in a limited window in Europe on premium subscription streaming service Mubi. Subsequently it caught the attention of both Fandor and Grasshopper Film.

Nicola Costantino’s art is known for often macabre imagery steeped in violence that is meant to reflect the history of Argentina. She is known for provocative works including lifelike casts of animals, soap made out of fat liposuctioned from her own body, and clothes and accessories made from male nipple casts. Cristiani’s doc delves into her creative process as she prepares to exhibit her latest work at the 55th Venice Biennale international art exhibition.

The deal was brokered by Krivoshey and Jonathan Marlow, who is chief content officer of Fandor, and Brett Walker, Miguel Govea and Francesca Breccia on behalf of Rome-based Coccinelle Film Placement representing Cristiani.