Strand Takes Berlinale Title "Gentle Man"

A scene from Hans Petter Moland's "A Somewhat Gentle Man." Image courtesy of Strand Releasing.

Strand Releasing has acquired the North American rights from TrustNordisk to 2010 Berlin International Film Festival Competition title "A Somehwhat Gentle Man." Directed by Hans Petter Moland, "Gentle Man" will hit theaters in the fourth quarter of 2010. The deal was negotiated between Co-President Jon Gerrans from Strand Releasing and Head of Sales at TrustNordisk, Susan Wendt.

The film is described as quirky criminal comedy, starring Stellan Skarsgaard, that tells the story about Ulrik, an ex-convict just released from prison, who wants to start over and is seeking a more "normal and quiet life." But it is more difficult than expected as he has to cope with his gang of criminals, his son, a few women - and the man who testified against him.

"This unique and insightful film stuck with me since I first screened it in Berlin. Hans Petter Moland has directed Stellan Skarsgaard in an award worthy performance and all of us at Strand are looking forward to introducing it to what should be a very appreciative North American audience," said Jon Gerrans in a statement.

The film has already been sold to more than 20 countries, and was produced by Norwegian production company Paradox with support from The Norwegian Film Institute and Nordisk Film & TV Fond.