MPI Media Group Acquires North American Rights to Thriller 'Hood Witch'

MPI Media Group, a Chicago-based entertainment company, has made a significant acquisition in the independent film sector.

It has secured the North American distribution rights for Saïd Belktibia’s French thriller, Hood Witch. The movie, starring Iranian and French acting sensation Golshifteh Farahani and the esteemed Denis Lavant, is set to add a new dimension to MPI's already diverse portfolio.

The acquisition announcement comes just as 'Hood Witch' gears up for its screening at The Overlook Film Festival in New Orleans, a horror-focused event. This follows a successful world premiere at South by Southwest (SXSW), signaling a positive reception for the film. MPI plans to release the movie through its genre subsidiary, Dark Sky Films, in late fall 2024, potentially expanding its influence in the genre film market. 

'Hood Witch' explores the story of a single mother, portrayed by Farahani, known for her roles in 'Pirates of the Caribbean,' 'Extraction,' and 'Extraction 2.' Her character navigates the dangerous and shadowy world of smuggling, dealing in exotic animals and illicit products like birds of prey, venom, and rare roots. The thriller promises to weave a narrative combining elements of personal struggle, crime, and suspense.

The film’s acquisition was facilitated through a deal with Paris-based sales and production company WTFilms. Gregory Chambet, WTFilms co-founding partner, expressed his enthusiasm about the partnership with MPI Media Group. He highlighted the passion invested in 'Hood Witch,' from Belktibia’s personal storytelling to Farahani’s compelling portrayal of a modern mother. Chambet noted the encouraging reception at SXSW and expressed optimism about MPI Media Group's ability to resonate with American audiences.

MPI’s Dark Sky Films, an independent genre film production and distribution label, was founded in 2008 and has since become known for its original productions and releases. This subsidiary has a track record of diverse and successful films such as 'Girl on the Third Floor,' 'We Are Still Here,' 'Deathgasm,' 'Emelie,' 'Catfight,' 'Darlin’,' 'Bliss,' and more recently, '1BR,' 'Coming Home In The Dark,' 'Broadcast Signal Intrusion,' 'Mother May I?' and 'Herd.'

With the acquisition of 'Hood Witch,' MPI Media Group continues to demonstrate its commitment to bringing diverse and intriguing content to North American audiences. The film adds to MPI’s growing collection of independent and genre films, underscoring its role as a significant player in the distribution of unique cinematic works. As MPI prepares for the film's release in late 2024, 'Hood Witch' stands poised to be another example of the company’s ability to identify and showcase compelling, story-driven content that resonates with a wide range of viewers.