High tide: A poignant tale of undocumented life in America

A summer of discovery and heartache

High Tide, a compelling drama that delves into the lives of undocumented immigrants in the U.S., is set to make waves with its theatrical release in North America later this year. Directed by the talented Marco Calvani, the film had its premiere at the prestigious SXSW festival and has since been acquired by Strand Releasing, thanks to a deal with LD Entertainment.

The narrative centers on a heartbroken undocumented Brazilian immigrant navigating a summer of uncertainty and longing in the queer haven of Provincetown. Here, he encounters a charismatic individual who mirrors his feelings of alienation and uncertainty, setting the stage for a deeply emotional journey.

A stellar cast brings the story to life

The film boasts an impressive cast, featuring Brazilian actor Marco Pigossi, known for his role in “Gen V,” and Emmy-nominated James Bland from “Giants” in the leading roles. The supporting cast includes Oscar-winner Marisa Tomei (“My Cousin Vinny”), Tony-winner Bill Irwin (“Rachel Getting Married”), and Independent Spirit-winner Mya Taylor (“Tangerine”).

Behind the scenes: The making of High Tide

Produced by Mickey Liddell and Pete Shilaimon of LD Entertainment, along with Calvani, High Tide is a testament to the power of collaboration. The rights deal was brokered between Jon Gerrans of Strand Releasing and Michael Glassman of LD Entertainment. Marcus Hu of Strand Releasing praised the film, calling it “an elegant and moving film that captures the current situation of the undocumented seeking a foothold here and the struggles they are encountering.”

Marco Calvani: A director with a vision

Born in Italy, Marco Calvani has a rich background in both theater and film. His first short film, “The View From Up Here,” starred Oscar-winner Melissa Leo and César-winner Leïla Bekhti and was an adaptation of a stage play commissioned by The Actors Studio in 2016. Calvani’s second short film, “A Better Half,” was named best short of 2022 by the British Film Magazine Close-Up.

Strand Releasing and LD Entertainment: Champions of thoughtful cinema

Strand Releasing, known for its discerning selection of films, currently has releases such as Fatih Akin’s “Rhinegold,” Bradley Rust Gray’s Sundance winner “I’ll Be Your Mirror,” and Ray Yeung’s “All Shall Be Well.” LD Entertainment, an independent studio headed by Liddell and Shilaimon, has a reputation for financing and producing elevated and thoughtful films, television, and live theatrical shows. Their impressive portfolio includes “Judy,” “Jackie,” “Ben Is Back,” “The Zookeeper’s Wife,” and the Oscar-nominated “Biutiful.” High Tide marks their second theatrical release this year, following the recent opening of “National Anthem.”

A personal reflection on High Tide

As a cinema enthusiast, High Tide resonates deeply with me. The film’s exploration of undocumented life in America is both timely and poignant, shedding light on the often-overlooked struggles of those seeking a better life. The setting of Provincetown, a known sanctuary for the LGBTQ+ community, adds an additional layer of complexity and beauty to the narrative. The performances by Pigossi and Bland are sure to captivate audiences, bringing authenticity and depth to their roles.

For those eager to dive deeper into the world of High Tide, you can watch the trailer here.

The broader impact of High Tide

High Tide is more than just a film; it’s a reflection of the current socio-political climate and the human condition. It challenges viewers to empathize with the undocumented and to understand the profound impact of displacement and the search for belonging. The film’s release is timely, offering a narrative that is both universal and deeply personal.

In a world where stories of struggle and resilience are more important than ever, High Tide stands out as a beacon of hope and understanding. It is a must-watch for anyone interested in the human experience, the complexities of immigration, and the power of cinema to evoke change.

For more information and to stay updated on the release, visit the official page.

By weaving personal reflections and in-depth analysis into the narrative, this article aims to provide a comprehensive and engaging overview of High Tide. The film’s exploration of undocumented life, combined with its stellar cast and thoughtful direction, makes it a standout piece of cinema that is sure to leave a lasting impact.