The future of film is female: A new era for indie cinema
A fresh start for indie films
The Future of Film is Female is set to make waves in the indie film scene with its first major release, “The Graduates”, directed by Hannah Peterson. This coming-of-age drama will hit theaters across the U.S. starting November 1, marking a significant milestone for the distributor and the film industry at large.
A unique distribution approach
Founder Caryn Coleman’s vision for The Future of Film is Female is to provide a platform for independent films directed by women or nonbinary directors. The distribution strategy is tailored to each film, ensuring that these unique voices are heard. The partnership with Metrograph in New York is just the beginning of this innovative approach.
Meet the cast and crew
“The Graduates” boasts a stellar cast, including Mina Sundwall, John Cho, Alex Hibbert, Yasmeen Fletcher, Ewan Manley, Maria Dizzia, and Kelly O’Sullivan. Sundwall takes on the role of a young woman navigating the complexities of graduating high school in the wake of a tragic event. The film’s premiere at the 2023 Tribeca Film Festival was met with acclaim, particularly for its cinematography by Carolina Costa, which won the best cinematography award.
Watch the trailer for “The Graduates”
Behind the scenes
Hannah Peterson not only directed but also wrote and edited “The Graduates”. The film is executive produced by notable figures such as Chloé Zhao, Jessamine Burgum, Kara Durrett, Meena Harris, Juliet Liu, and John Cho, who also stars in the film. The production team includes Josh Peters, Saba Zerehi, Taylor Shung, and Jessamine Burgum.
Peterson’s previous work, the short film “Champ”, was featured in The Future of Film is Female’s screening program at the Museum of Modern Art, showcasing her talent and potential early on.
A new distribution philosophy
Caryn Coleman, President of The Future of Film is Female, emphasizes the need for a shift in distribution strategies. She believes that many deserving independent films have been overlooked in recent years. By adopting a specialized distribution approach, the organization aims to foster a deeper connection between films and their audiences, promoting visible representation and long-lasting change in the industry.
“We care a lot,” Coleman states, highlighting the passion and dedication behind this initiative.
A director’s perspective
Hannah Peterson expresses her excitement about partnering with The Future of Film is Female. “Caryn has been a supporter of my career in its entirety, so it is especially meaningful to forge this new pathway together,” she says. Peterson is eager to share the hard work and talent of her remarkable cast and crew with audiences.
The deal
The distribution deal for “The Graduates” was negotiated by Caryn Coleman of The Future of Film is Female, alongside Cinetic Media and WME, representing the filmmakers. This collaboration marks a significant step forward in the mission to bring more diverse and independent voices to the forefront of the film industry.
Final thoughts
The release of “The Graduates” is more than just a film premiere; it represents a shift in the way independent films are distributed and appreciated. With The Future of Film is Female leading the charge, the industry can expect to see more unique and powerful stories brought to life on the big screen. This initiative not only supports filmmakers but also enriches the cinematic landscape, offering audiences fresh perspectives and compelling narratives.
For cinema enthusiasts, this is an exciting time. The commitment to specialized distribution and the focus on underrepresented voices promise a future where diverse stories are not just told but celebrated. As we look forward to the release of “The Graduates”, we can anticipate a new era of indie cinema that is inclusive, innovative, and inspiring.