Sundance 2013: Weinstein Company Acquires Festival Favorite ‘Fruitvale’

Following a bidding war, TWC claimed distribution and international sales rights for Ryan Coogler's directorial debut

The Weinstein Company has secured distribution and international sales rights for Ryan Coogler's Sundance favorite, "Fruitvale," the distributor announced on Monday.

The drama, which premiered at the festival last Saturday, is based on the tragic true story of Oscar Grant, who was shot to death by a Bay Area Rapid Transit police officer on New Year's Day in 2009.

Also read: Sundance 2013: Sales Talks Swirl Around 'Concussion,' 'Don Jon's Addiction,' 'Fruitvale'

Starring Michael B. Jordan ("Chronicle"), the film follows the last moments of the 22-year-old's life, as he makes plans to be a better partner to his girlfriend and a better father to his four-year-old daughter

Oscar-winner Octavia Spencer co-stars with Melonie Diaz, Kevin Durand, Chad Michael Murray and Ahna O’Reilly.

"We are so thrilled to be partnering with The Weinstein Company and their amazing team," Nina Yang Bongiovi, a producer of the film, said. "We can't wait for the world to see this very important story and the most moving performances by our talent."

The Weinstein Company beat out a number of interested buyers to land distribution rights for the U.S., U.K., Australia and Souther Africa.

COO David Glasser, SVP of acquisitions Dan Guando, EVP of business and legal affairs and acquisitions Michal Podell Steinberg and director of acquisitions Jennifer Malloy negotiated the deal with WME Global's Graham Taylor and Mark Ankner.

“I was completely amazed by this incredible film. This earth-shattering story is one that needs to be told, and we are honored to be able to share Oscar’s story with audiences everywhere,” Harvey Weinstein said in a statement. “I was totally blown away by the cast, and we couldn’t be more excited to be working with such a great group of filmmakers.

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