The Weinstein Company announced tonight that it has acquired North American rights to Concussion, one of the most provocative and well received films at this year’s Festival that is drawing endless comparisons to Belle de Jour.
Written and directed by Stacie Passon in an auspicious directing debut effort, and produced by Rose Troche, Concussion is a poignant sexual examination of Abby (Robin Weigert), a forty something married wealthy, lesbian housewife who, after suffering a blow to the head from getting smacked by her son’s baseballwalks around every corner of her suburban life to confront a mounting desire for something else. She takes on a new project and purchases a pied-à-terre in Manhattan. Walking around the city streets reminds Abby what it feels like to be sexy, and her pent-up libido shakes off its inhibitions. Her newfound desire though is not a take-home item, so Abby inaugerates a double life as a high end escort. Palpably sensual and deliciously contained, Concussion is a keen observation of the complicated contours of midlife crisis.
According to RADiUS co-presidents Tom Quinn and Jason Janego: “We were mesmorized by ‘Concussion’ and the job Stacie did in creating such rich, relatable characters. This film made an indelible impression anchored by Robin’s exceptional performance – – one of the best we’ve seen on screen in a very long time.”
Stacie Passon goes on to say: “RADiUS is continuing to define itself as a home for artists. We are thrilled with the passion and dedication of Tom Quinn and Jason Janego and their exceptional team. We know we are in excellent hands.”
RADiUS has slated an early fall 2013 release.
In 2012, Concussion was chosen for the Independent Feature Project’s narrative lab. Additionally, Concussion received the Adrienne Shelly Director’s Grant and the Calvin Klein Spotlight on Women Filmmakers Live the Dream Grant at the Gotham Awards.
In addition to Weigert (“Deadwood”), Concussion also stars Maggie Siff, Johnathan Tchaikovsky, Julie Fain Lawrence, Emily Kinney and Laila Robins. The executive producers are Anthony Cupo and Cliff Chenfeld. Rose Troche Is the producer.
