Heretic Acquires World Sales Rights to Marian Mathias’ “Runner” Ahead of Toronto Premiere

Films

Heretic Acquires World Sales Rights to Marian Mathias’ “Runner” Ahead of Toronto Premiere

Marian Mathias is set to have a busy fall, with her feature debut “Runner” soon to enjoy its world premiere at Toronto International Film Festival in September, and its European premiere at San Sebastian later that same month — and now Variety has revealed exclusively that Athens-based Heretic has acquired the world sales rights to the film ahead of those screenings.

The film centers on Haas (Hannah Schiller), “an 18-year-old girl who was raised by her father in the rural Midwest,” the source details. “When her father suddenly dies, she must carry out his wish to be buried in the town where he was born. There, she meets a young man named Will (Darren Houle), a lonely, creative soul who is working to support his family back home. The two form a friendship that challenges their understanding of love and loss.”

Producer Joy Jorgensen (“Homebody”) said: “From the very beginning the Heretic team has deeply understood the creative goals of our film ‘Runner.’ They have an international perspective when discussing the possibilities of our film and we are so excited to be a part of their dynamic slate.”

Ioanna Stais, head of sales and acquisitions at Heretic, added, “‘Runner’ is a heartfelt story and a visually remarkable piece of cinema that captures a beautiful bond between two young people. Marian skillfully frames the beauty of the American landscape in a film that captivates you with the simplicity and the emotional depth of its narrative. We can’t wait to present to audiences worldwide such a strong new voice.”

Along with Nadia Turincev (“Raw”), Mathias is among the film’s co-producers. She previously made the short film “Give Up the Ghost,” which was nominated for the Cinefondation Award at the 2017 Cannes Film Festival.

TIFF runs September 8-18; San Sebastian September 16-24.