Studiocanal has struck a three-year theatrical distribution deal with Sun Africa Group (SAG), a member of Telefilms’ Sun Distribution Group, covering a slate of English-language feature films in South Africa, as the French studio moves to deepen its presence in one of the continent’s leading film markets.
Under the agreement, SAG will handle the theatrical releases of Studiocanal’s main English-language slate in the territory, including anime and film titles from its 6th Dimension genre label, and selected South African productions developed with local broadcaster M-Net. The deal aims to create a regular series of international and local films for South African audiences.
The first title out of the gate will be pressureThriller film directed by Anthony Maras (Mumbai hotel) and starring Andrew Scott, Brendan Fraser and Kerry Condon. Includes additional releases under the deal A whole elephantThe comedy film, directed by Quentin Dupio and starring Woody Harrelson and Kristen Stewart as father and daughter, premiered at midnight in Cannes last week; Danny Boyle ink, The Senor, He knew the country And Sean Byrne Mannequinwith additional titles to be announced later.
The partnership builds on the existing relationship between the two companies, which have worked together since SAG’s founding, including the South African release of We live in timea drama produced by Studiocanal and starring Andrew Garfield and Florence Pugh.
The announcement comes as Studiocanal deepens its presence in South Africa more broadly. The company recently revealed The way homeDirected by Oscar-winner Bill Condon and starring Cynthia Erivo, it is scheduled to begin filming in the country at the end of June. The film chronicles the friendship between musicians Hugh Masekela and Paul Simon against the backdrop of apartheid-era South Africa, and signals the studio’s appetite for stories rooted in the region.
The deal also fits into a broader strategic push by Studiocanal’s parent company Canal+ to expand its creative and commercial presence across the African continent.
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