Palestinian Oscar Entry ‘Omar’ Gets U.S. Distribution
Adopt Films has acquired all U.S. rights to “Omar,” the Palestinian territories’ official Oscar submission for foreign-language film.
“Omar,” written and directed by Palestinian director Hany Abu-Assad, won the Un Certain Regard Jury Prize at Cannes this year. Adopt plans a late winter U.S. release for “Omar,” which had its North American premiere at the Toronto Film Festival last month.
Abu-Assad’s 2005 film “Paradise Now” is the only Palestinian title to have received a best foreign language nomination. “Omar” is the sixth film submitted by the Palestinian territories to the Academy of Motion Picture Arts & Sciences.
“Omar” centers on the emotional struggles of a young Palestinian baker whose loyalty to family and country are complicated by his love for a beautiful young student. Adam Bakri stars in the title role along with Leem Lubany, Waleed F. Zuaiter, Samer Bisharat and Eyad Hourani.
Pic was written, directed and co-produced by Abu-Assad and produced by Zuaiter and David Gerson.
Adopt’s Tim Grady and Jeff Lipsky negotiated the deal for U.S. rights with Brigitte Suarez of the Match Factory.
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