Fremantle’s Rome-based company, The Apartment, has recently announced their involvement in Karim Aïnouz’s upcoming film, Rosebushpruning, in collaboration with The Match Factory, Mubi, Kavac Film, and Rai Cinema. This project marks a significant step for The Apartment, following the appointment of Annamaria Morelli as its CEO earlier this year. The star-studded cast includes Kristen Stewart, Josh O’Connor, and Elle Fanning, set to begin filming later in the year. The film is a bold adaptation of Marco Bellocchio’s debut feature, Fists in the Pocket, exploring the dynamics of a dysfunctional family.
Viola Fügen and Michael Weber are at the helm of Rosebushpruning as producers for The Match Factory, which will also oversee worldwide sales for the film. The adaptation rights have been secured from Kavac Film, with Simone Gattoni joining the production team. Morelli, as the executive producer, brings her expertise to The Apartment’s co-production of the film. Crybaby Films will also have a hand in the production as co-producers in the UK. The financing for the project comes from Mubi, alongside Metafilms and Anna Films, with additional support from Fremantle, Film und Medienstiftung NRW, Medienboard, and the German Federal Film Board.
Director’s Vision
Karim Aïnouz, known for his film Motel Destino, expressed his excitement to revisit Bellocchio’s seminal work from over 50 years ago. Collaborating with Efthimis Filippou, Aïnouz aims to create a contemporary narrative that challenges the traditional patriarchal family structure. He envisions Rosebushpruning to be a thought-provoking and emotionally resonant piece that speaks to modern audiences. The director is enthusiastic about working with a talented ensemble of actors, including Stewart, O’Connor, and Fanning, to bring this adaptation to life on screen.
The anticipation for Rosebushpruning is palpable, with industry insiders eagerly awaiting the release of this dynamic and provocative film. The partnership between The Apartment, The Match Factory, Mubi, Kavac Film, and Rai Cinema promises a cinematic experience that will captivate audiences worldwide. Aïnouz’s reimagining of Bellocchio’s classic work is sure to spark conversations and resonate with viewers on a profound level. As the project continues to unfold, the buzz surrounding Rosebushpruning only grows stronger, solidifying its place as a must-watch film in the coming year.