Lionsgate and Roadside Attractions have acquired all U.S. rights to Snoot Entertainment’s “Battle for Terra,” a 3D animated feature film. The feature directorial debut of short filmmaker Aristomenis Tsirbas, the film features the vocal talents of Evan Rachel Wood, Luke Wilson, Justin Long, Amanda Peet, Chris Evans and Dennis Quaid. Told from the perspective of the aliens, “Terra” is about a planet being invaded by humans fleeing a dying Earth.
“Terra” made its world premiere at the 2007 Toronto International Film Festival, and has since been honored for its “environmental awareness themes and stunning animation” with the Silver Griffin Award at the 2008 Giffoni Film Festival; the Grand Prize for Best Animated Feature at the 2008 Ottawa International Animation Festival; and the Crystal Heart Award at the 2008 Heartland Film Festival. In preparation for the U.S. release, the entire film has been rendered in stereoscopic 3D using a proprietary in-house process.
“We at Roadside could not be more excited to be releasing Battle for Terra,” said Roadside Attractions Co-President Eric d’Arbeloff in a statement. “Not only is it a thrilling piece of entertainment for younger audiences, its themes of tolerance and environmental awareness will resonate with viewers of all ages. Anyone interested in 3D animation and digital artistry will be stunned.”
The deal was negotiated by Lionsgate President of Theatrical Films Tom Ortenberg, on behalf of Lionsgate; Co-President of Roadside Attractions Howard Cohen and attorney Greg Bernstein, on behalf of Roadside Attractions; and by Snoot President Keith Calder, CAA and Erik Hyman and Susan Williams of Loeb & Loeb, on behalf of the filmmakers and Snoot Entertainment.
Lionsgate and Roadside will open, “Battle for Terra” in wide release, in both 3D and 2D formats, on May 1, 2009. Stuart Ford’s IM Global will handle international.
Sign Up: Stay on top of the latest breaking film and TV news! Sign up for our Email Newsletters here.
