Ireland's official entry for Best Foreign Language Oscar, Viva, received another boost today after it was picked up for distribution in North America which means it will now get a cinema release in the US and Canada.
Viva, a Cuban-set Spanish-language film, is directed by Paddy Breathnach (I Went Down) and written by Mark O'Halloran, who is best known for writing and starring in the highly acclaimed movie Adam and Paul. Oscar winner Benicio Del Toro is also on board as the movie's Executive Producer.
The film follows Jesus, an eighteen-year-old Cuban who is struggling to realize his true identity. Unsure of himself, he works at a local Havana drag club where he entertains dreams of becoming a performer whilst earning his money through hustling. His life takes a turn when his father, a once celebrated boxer, returns home after a 15 year stretch in prison.
The Irish production, which has screened to great acclaim at the Telluride and Tornoto Film Festivals, has now been picked up for North American distribution by Magnolia Pictures. Last month Viva was selected by the Irish Film & Television Academy as Ireland’s submission for the Foreign Language category at next year's Oscars.
"Paddy Breathnach has delivered a gem with Viva,'" said Magnolia President Eamonn Bowles. "The intimate look into life in Havana today is almost as fascinating as the beautiful performances and story."
The movie is set for release in North America in 2016.
