Angelina Jolie's Without Blood Sets September U.S. Theatrical Release

Brainstorm Media has acquired the U.S. distribution rights to Without Blood, the latest feature directed by Academy Award winner Angelina Jolie, and has set the film for an exclusive theatrical release on September 18.

Written by Jolie and Alessandro Baricco, the film is based on Baricco's acclaimed novel of the same name. Starring Salma Hayek Pinault, Demián Bichir, and Juan Minujín, Without Blood is set in the aftermath of an unnamed conflict and explores themes of war, trauma, memory, healing, and the lasting impact of violence. The film premiered at the 2024 Toronto International Film Festival.

"Alessandro Baricco's Without Blood examines universal truths about trauma, memory and healing," Jolie, who also produced the project, said. "The emotional intimacy and openness that our cast and crew brought to this film was extraordinary and exciting to be around. I hope that Salma and Demián's brave performances will inspire the type of conversation that Baricco sought in writing the novel."

Hayek Pinault, who reunites with Jolie after appearing together in Eternals, reflected on the experience of working with the filmmaker.

"Having the opportunity to be directed by Angelina Jolie in Without Blood was a profoundly enriching experience," Hayek Pinault said. "Her emotional intelligence and searing sensitivity bring to life a story about how the wounds we carry shape who we become, and the strength it takes to carry on. I am so thrilled that Brainstorm is bringing this visually stunning tale of revenge, guilt, and the long road back to our own humanity to U.S. audiences in theaters."

The acquisition was negotiated by Brainstorm Media's Alex Peters, with Creative Artists Agency and Fremantle handling sales. Produced by Jolie alongside Lorenzo Mieli, Lorenzo De Maio, and Simone Gattoni, the film is a Fremantle North America and The Apartment co-production in collaboration with Jolie Productions and De Maio Entertainment.

"Angelina Jolie has crafted, through a revenge western lens, a nuanced and unflinching acknowledgement of the human cost of war," said Brainstorm CEO Michelle Shwarzstein. "Anchored by two brilliant performances by Salma Hayek Pinault and Demián Bichir, this cinematic plea for empathy and understanding has unfortunately never been more relevant today and will resonate deeply with theatrical audiences."

Andrea Scrosati, Group COO and CEO of Continental Europe at Fremantle, added, "Angelina Jolie's compelling adaptation of Alessandro Baricco's novel embodies our shared passion for, and commitment to, telling global stories. 'Without Blood' is a prime example of what can be achieved when we embrace creative freedom and partnerships. We look forward to bringing the film to U.S. audiences."

Read the whole article on Variety.