Premiere Picks Up ‘Hannah Montana’ Creator’s Faith-Based Hit for Cannes Market (EXCLUSIVE)
Premiere Entertainment has acquired the international rights to family faith-based film “The Girl Who Believes in Miracles” after the film’s solid performance at the U.S. box office over Easter.
The Oklahoma-shot feature was written and directed by “Hannah Montana” co-creator Richard Correll and stars Academy Award winner Mira Sorvino (“The Mighty Aphrodite”); Austyn Johnson (“The Greatest Showman”) and celebrated voice actor Pete Coyote (“The Roosevelts: An Intimate History”).
More from Variety
Richard Correll, Kevin Waller, Laurence J. Jaffe, and Terry Rindal produced the film.
The feature, co-written by G.M. Mercier, focuses on a child called Sara (Johnson) who achieves overnight fame when her prayers appear to start healing local townsfolk.
These miracles come at a cost however, as the toll of fame and the girl’s deteriorating physical condition force those close to her to take action.
Produced by Trailmaker Productions and Gerson Productions in association with film investors Stephen Hays and Peter Graham’s 120dB Films, the title was released via Atlas Distribution to a total of 1,333 U.S. theaters over Easter and grossed over $3.1m.
Premiere plans to introduce the film to international buyers during the Virtual Cannes Market through its faith-based label, Grace Films.
Premier’s VP of acquisitions Carlos Rincon claimed that the film’s box office success in light of the pandemic was a testament to the growing demand for faith-based content.
“We are confident that the film’s powerful message will resonate with international buyers at the Virtual Cannes market,” he added.
Rincon and Premier’s CEO Elias Axume negotiated the deal with Waller and his attorney, Bianca Bezdek-Goodloe.
“Coming off the heels of the success of our U.S. theatrical run and positive audience reception, we are excited to share the film with the rest of the world. Elias, Carlos and the rest of the Premiere team’s passion for the film gives us confidence that the film will be represented to the fullest,” said Waller.
Other Grace Films titles include Roadside Attractions’ football drama “Run the Race” (featuring actor and director Mario Van Peebles), “Full Count” starring Jason London (“Dazed and Confused”) and “For Greater Glory” starring “The Untouchables” actor Andy Garcia and Oscar Isaac (“Inside Llewyn Davis”).
Best of Variety
Sign up for Variety’s Newsletter. For the latest news, follow us on Facebook, Twitter, and Instagram.
