IFC Films has nabbed U.S. and Canadian rights to “The Escape,” a character study that features a bravura turn by Gemma Arterton as an unhappy wife and mother. The film, which was written and directed by Dominic Savage (“Love + Hate”) and co-stars Dominic Cooper (“The History Boys”), premiered at the 2017 Toronto International Film Festival.
It earned strong reviews at the Canadian festival, with Variety’s Guy Lodge praising the lead performance, and writing that “‘The Escape’ works as an unsparing showcase for Arterton’s growing range and maturity as an actress.” Arterton has previously starred in “Clash of the Titans,” “Hansel & Gretel: Witch Hunters,” and “Tamara Drewe.”
“The Escape” centers on Tara, a woman who loves her family, but feels trapped and unfulfilled by her life in a housing estate. She runs away after failing to receive an empathetic response to her frustrations from friends and loved ones. Tara goes on a journey of self-discovery, one that forces her to abandon her husband and kids.
Frances Barber, Marthe Keller, and Jalil Lespert round out the cast. “The Escape” was produced by Guy Heeley for Shoebox Films with Arterton, Paul Webster, Julian Bird, and Joseph Berry Jr. serving as executive producers. Financing for the film came from Lorton Entertainment. The deal for the film was negotiated by Arianna Bocco from Sundance Selects/IFC Films with ICM Partners and Nada Cirjanic from Independent representing the filmmakers.
“Dominic Savage has created a thoughtful and extremely moving drama that features a powerhouse performance by Gemma Arterton. Following its fantastic reception at TIFF, we’re thrilled to be in business with the filmmaking team to release this film to audiences,” said Bocco in a statement.
