It says a lot about the current state of theatrical that there are 10 Cannes competition titles still seeking U.S. distribution, that’s half the comp slate.
The most notable ones left to be bought are Paul Schrader’s “Oh, Canada,” David Cronenberg’s “The Shrouds,” Ali Abassi’s “The Apprentice,” Michel Hazanavicius’ “The Most Precious of Cargoes,” Agathe Riedinger’s “Wild Diamond” and Karim Ainouz’s “Motel Destino.”
Both Cronenberg and Schrader’s films were met with lukewarm reviews — I was underwhelmed by both— although the former did get some positive notices from some of the more high-brow critics. “The Shrouds” has a 57 on Metacritic, “Oh, Canada” is at 59 on Metacritic. You do have to wonder which small-scaled indie studio is willing to take the risk with these two.
Meanwhile, Abassi’s “The Apprentice” seems to still be in distribution limbo. Briarcliffe has shown its interest in buying this ‘80s Trump movie, but they only offered $5M. It doesn’t help that one of its producers, Dan Snyder, is blocking this potential sell, for various reasons.
As expected, Snyder's latest is being torn apart by TIFF attendees. No mercy given. The film, which had its world premiere this evening, is being called by some one of the worst movies to ever premiere at the festival.