Beta Cinema secures global rights for ‘Let It Rain’ by acclaimed director Hannes Holm
Introduction to the cinematic masterpiece
Beta Cinema has acquired the international sales rights for the highly anticipated film Let It Rain, directed by the Oscar-nominated Hannes Holm. Known for his successfully heartwarming A Man Called Ove, Holm’s newest venture stars the seasoned actor Robert Gustafsson, a familiar name thanks to his leading role in The 100-Year-Old Man Who Climbed Out of the Window and Disappeared.
The atmospheric setting of ‘Let It Rain’
Set against the backdrop of a small town in Southern Sweden, Let It Rain paints a portrait of Ingmar, a grumpy widower, played by Gustafsson. Ingmar’s life has been on autopilot since his wife’s passing, straining his relationship with his daughter Erika. His mundane existence is marked only by his late wife’s cherished roses and his interactions with his annoying, divorced neighbor Burman.
During the hottest and driest summer in memory, the town is gripped by an endless wait for rain. In what can be described as a blend of miracle and coincidence, Ingmar finds himself at the center of an event that not only transforms his life but also changes the destiny of the entire village.
Visit this link for more on Let It Rain.
An intricate screenplay and stellar production
The screenplay, a collaborative effort between Hannes Holm and Jonas Karlsson, is based on Karlsson’s novel Regnmannen (The Rain Man). Renowned John Christian Rosenlund, notable for his work on The Wave and The King’s Choice, took charge of the cinematography, ensuring every frame is visually compelling.
The production, led by Patrick Ryborn of Unlimited Stories, is supported by a robust network including Nordisk Film, SVT, Film i Skåne, and more. Financial backing is provided by the Swedish Film Institute and the Nordic Film & TV Fund, highlighting the collaborative effort behind the project.
A deep dive into Holm’s filmography
Holm’s reputation in Swedish cinema is unparalleled. His knack for transforming mundane life into heartfelt and engaging stories is evident in his past works. A Man Called Ove (2015) was a massive success, garnering two Academy Award nominations and grossing over $30 million worldwide. Its charm was such that it inspired a Hollywood remake, A Man Called Otto, starring Tom Hanks.
Further cementing his legacy are hits like Adam & Eva (1997), Shit Happens (2010), and the Andersson Trilogy (2012-2014). Each of these films set box office records in Sweden, showcasing Holm’s consistent ability to strike a chord with audiences.
Robert Gustafsson: A global cinematic phenomenon
Robert Gustafsson‘s versatility has won him accolades beyond Swedish borders. Globally recognized for his portrayal of Allan Karlsson in The 100-Year-Old Man Who Climbed Out of the Window and Disappeared and its sequel, Gustafsson’s performances have been both critically and commercially successful. His contributions to Let It Rain are bound to elevate the film’s emotional and comedic elements.
A stellar supporting cast and production crew
Co-screenwriter Jonas Karlsson, a beloved Swedish actor known for roles in The Snowman and Beck, joins the cast as Burman, Ingmar’s partner in crime. Talents like Karin Lithman (The Bridge) and Emelia Sallhag round out the ensemble, adding depth to the film’s narrative.
The production prowess of Unlimited Stories, responsible for notable titles such as Hammarskjöld (2023) and The Lost (2022), guarantees a high-quality cinematic experience. Their consistent track record suggests that Let It Rain will maintain, if not exceed, their high standards.
Behind the scenes: Director’s vision
Holm’s enthusiasm for Jonas Karlsson’s novel is apparent. He described being struck by how humans can react when faced with life’s unexpected turns. Holm’s approach balances humor and drama, encapsulating the chaos and magic of human existence, a signature style that resonates throughout his work.
Holm stated, “When I first read Jonas Karlsson’s book ‘Regnmannen,’ I was immediately struck by the fine story about how crazy we humans can act when life surprises us. Often, a simple solution isn’t found, and we open ourselves up to pure magic. This is the essence of ‘Let It Rain,’ told with love and warmth, as a good movie should be.”
Post-production and future prospects
With filming wrapping up in late September, Let It Rain now enters an extensive post-production phase. The film’s anticipated release during the Christmas holidays in 2025 in Scandinavia promises a captivating addition to the festive season’s lineup.
As industry buzz builds, be sure to share this story and keep up with the latest from Beta Cinema. Stay tuned for more updates on Let It Rain and other upcoming projects from this visionary director.
For the latest developments and more intriguing stories, follow our updates on social media and stay connected with the world of cinema.