Fremantle has acquired the global distribution rights for epilepsy-themed feature documentary “Sisters Interrupted.”
Directed by Caroline Sharp, the film reveals the hidden world of epilepsy – a life-threatening seizure condition that affects 50 million people worldwide. It follows British sisters Chelsea and Tamsin Leyland as they both battle forms of epilepsy and together fight for access to a treatment that could save both their lives. Chelsea lives in New York and has gained access to medical cannabis against her neurologist’s recommendations, resulting in her being seizure-free for six years. Across the Atlantic in the U.K., her sister Tamsin often suffers up to 70 seizures a day and is resistant to every medication she has tried. She knows time is running out as she remains unable to access this innovative treatment through the U.K. health system.
Filmed over three years by an all-female production team, “Sisters Interrupted” will receive its U.K. premiere at London’s Raindance Film Festival on Nov. 1. It is produced by Captum Productions in association with Docsville Studios and directed by Caroline Sharp. The producers are Sophie Daniel, Chelsea Leyland and Sharp.
Angela Neillis, senior VP, non-scripted content, international, at Fremantle, said: “’Sisters Interrupted’ is a unique and beautifully shot film which we are thrilled to share with global buyers, we’re also very much looking forward to the U.K. festival premiere at Raindance. The film is a credit to the skilful filmmaking team at Captum Productions who are examining the condition of epilepsy like never before through the lens of two remarkable sisters.”
Sharp added: “Film has the power to bring issues out of the shadows and change perception and attitudes just by raising awareness. Epilepsy is a condition suffered by over 50 million people worldwide, and yet it is highly stigmatised. The effect is profound, on both those with the condition and their families. We hope that this intimate portrait will move people, and serve as a catalyst for positive social and institutional change. These are real people, who we love and we fight for.”
