Cinedigm Entertainment Group has acquired all U.S. distribution rights to the documentary “Call Me Kuchu.” The company plans an early 2013 theatrical run followed by release on digital platforms, DVD and TV.
Directed by Katherine Fairfax Wright and Malika Zouhali-Worrall, “Kuchu” follows four LGBT Ugandans for two years as they maintain outspoken lives and struggle against entrenched religious and cultural attitudes. Zouhali-Worrall also produced the project, which received support from Film Independent’s artist development program, as well as Chicken & Egg Pictures, Catapult Film Fund and Cinereach.
“‘Call Me Kuchu’ is one of those rare films that tackles a controversial worldwide issue and then makes that very issue exceedingly personal and intense,” said Cinedigm acquisitions exec Vincent Scordino. “Viewers will come away profoundly moved. And, appropriately, angry.”
Cinedigm’s Emily Rothschild negotiated the deal with Andrew Herwitz of the Film Sales Company on behalf of the filmmakers, which screened “Kuchu” at the Berlin and Hot Docs film festivals this year.
“Katy and Malika’s ‘Call Me Kuchu’ is an important film to come out of Film Independent’s Artist Development Program and it was exciting to watch it garner accolades on the festival circuit and from leading US and global political organizations,” said Film Independent co-president Sean McManus. “While the film is set in Uganda, its message is a global one, reminding us that the relevance of having an ongoing dialogue around equality can’t be understated.”
Cinedigm has recently released “Hell and Back Again,” “GasLand,” “Paradise Lost 3: Purgatory,” “The Invisible War” and “Chico & Rita.” Forthcoming releases include “Citadel” and “Don’t Stop Believin’: Everyman’s Journey.”
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