Arrow Films announced today that they have acquired rights in the UK, Eire, US (and home entertainment for Canada) for the extraordinary chiller THE RIGHTEOUS - an award-winning standout on the genre festival circuit. The UK-based premiere label for cult, art, horror and world cinema is planning a release in Summer 2022. Vortex Media will release the film theatrically and on Digital in Canada with Arrow Films picking up the home entertainment release for Canada.
This first feature from director-actor-writer Mark O'Brien is a dark chiller about a burdened man who feels the wrath of a vengeful God, after he and his wife are visited by a mysterious stranger. The film stars O'Brien (AMC’s 61st Street, Blue Bayou, Ready or Not), Henry Czerny (Ready or Not, Mission Impossible) and Mimi Kuzyk (The Day After Tomorrow, The Final Cut).
The film had its World Premiere at the Fantasia International Film Festival in 2021, winning the Cheval Noir and Silver Award, and has since gone on to win a Bloodie at the 2021 Blood in the Snow Film Festival, and the Grimmfest Award at the 2021 Grimmfest.
Director of Content Francesco Simeoni at Arrow commented: "We're delighted to be working with Vortex Media and The Righteous creative team on the forthcoming release. Mark O'Brien has put together a highly impressive debut with strong performances from himself and his stars. We knew upon seeing it at Fantasia that it would be perfect for Arrow fans.
"Vortex Media has supported The Righteous from the script stage and are elated to have partnered with the wonderful team at Arrow Films to release what is a fantastic, visionary work by Mark O'Brien." said Justin Rebelo, Vortex Media CEO. "We look forward to continuing the film's journey sharing the film with audiences after the warm response from Fantasia, Grimmfest and Blood in the Snow."
Mark O'Brien commented: "As a dedicated fan of Arrow Films, I am beyond thrilled to be partnering with them on my debut feature film and continuing my relationship with Vortex Media. Arrow Films are a filmmaker and cinephile's dream. It’s an honor to be a part of their tremendous catalog."
