MusicBoxFilms has acquired U.S. distribution rights to“Solo,”Sophie Dupuis’s queer love story of two rising drag performers starring Théodore Pellerin (“Beau Is Afraid) and Félix Maritaud (“120 BPM”).
The edgy film — which is repped by SND and premiered at Toronto where it won best Canadian film — follows Simon, a rising star of Montreal drag queen scene, who falls in love with Olivier, the new recruit at the bar where he performs. While Simon believes he is experiencing an electrifying love story with Olivier, a toxic dynamic develops between them. At the same time, Simon’s mother, a famous opera singer, returns to work in the country after 15 years of absence. Fascinated by her, Simon persists in trying to create a bond with her, but in vain. Weakened by the failure of these two impossible relationships, Simon must learn how to find the love he deserves from within.
Dupuis, who was just listed as one of PvNew’s10 Directors to Watch for 2024, previously directed the film “Underground” which was nominated for four Canadian Screen Awards, and won two prizes at Namur International Film Festival.
MusicBoxFilms will open“Solo”in theaters this spring with a home entertainment release to follow.
“Solo” “offers dazzling and electrifying drag performances with delicately observed relationships between rich and lively characters,” said MusicBoxFilms’ Brian Andreotti, who negotiated the deal with Ramy Nahas at SND. “Sophie Dupuis has made a powerful film about young passionate romances and the love between family and chosen families while discovering oneself.”
Dupuis, meanwhile, said it was “always exciting to see another queer film travel and be able to touch more people’s hearts.”
Dupuis previously told PvNew she was “always fascinated by the art of drag, because of its richness, complexity and flamboyance. But above everything its importance.”
“Drag is political, it deconstructs, it liberates and allows oneself to exist freely. We all need drag in this world that is overshadowed by intolerance,” said the director.
SND’s current slate also includes Anne Fontaine’s“Bolero,”Barbara Schulz’s“Treasure Hunters” and Bret Easton Ellis’ directorial début“Relapse.”
