Gravitas Ventures has acquired all North American rights to Laurie Collyer's "Sunlight Jr." which stars Naomi Watts, Norman Reedus and Matt Dillon, the company announced on Thursday.
Gravitas will partner with Samuel Goldwyn Films for the release. The film will have a pre-theatrical VOD opening before opening in theaters this November.
"Sunlight Jr." recently screened in competition at the 2013 Tribeca Film Festival.
Story follows hard-working convenience store clerk Melissa (Watts) and her disabled boyfriend Richie (Dillon), who are trapped in a generational cycle of poverty. Their luck may be changing when they learn that Melissa has become pregnant. But as soon as she loses her job and they get evicted from the motel they live in, their joy vanishes. Through this adversity, the couple realizes that they can never lose everything as long as they have each other.
Collyer ("Sherrybaby") wrote and directed the film, which was produced by Charlie Corwin, Andrea Roa, and Ariel Elia. William Dietrich, Simon Fawcett, Joshua Skurla, Dan Klabin and Fisher Stevens executive produced.
"'Sunlight Jr.' showcases poignant performances from Naomi Watts, Matt Dillon and Norman Reedus. Laurie Collyer's skillful direction reminds you of the deep capacity of the human spirit," remarked Nolan Gallagher, founder and CEO of Gravitas Ventures. "We are excited to work with the film's producers and the team at Samuel Goldwyn Films to bring this worthy film to a wide audience."
"The performances of Naomi Watts, Matt Dillon and Norman Reedus are incredible. Laurie Collyer has once again created a picture where you really get to see talent shine," said Peter Goldwyn, senior VO of Samuel Goldwyn Films.
"This is a story too rarely told, but soulfully personified by Naomi Watts, Matt Dillon and the rest of the remarkable cast. Laurie is an artist with a unique and penetrating insight into the struggle of ordinary Americans," added Corwin.
Deal was negotiated by Gravitas' Gallagher with CAA, Untitled Entertainment and Roger Kass on behalf of the filmmakers.
