The Match Factory Secures Global Distribution Deals for Berlin Award-Winning Films
Guillermo del ToroOscar-winning filmmaker and author whose work and commentary explore fantasy, horror, and cinema.
The Match Factory has successfully orchestrated multiple distribution agreements for two of its films, 'Queen at Sea' and 'Rose', both of which garnered significant accolades at the recent Berlin Film Festival.
'Rose,' a cinematic creation by Markus Schleinzer, earned Sandra Hüller the Silver Bear for Best Leading Performance for her portrayal of a 17th-century German woman who attempts to live as a man. Critics widely praised the film, with The Hollywood Reporter lauding it as an eloquent critique of gender norms. This critical reception translated into substantial commercial success, with distribution rights secured across various European nations, including France (KMBO), Spain (Avalon), and the Benelux region (Paradiso). Additionally, the film found buyers in South Korea (Pancinema), the Middle East & North Africa (Gulf Film), and Israel (Lev Cinemas), with local releases planned in Germany by Piffl, Austria by Filmladen, and Switzerland by Filmcoopi.
Similarly, Lance Hammer's 'Queen at Sea', a poignant exploration of dementia's effects on a family, also achieved impressive sales. The film, lauded by a THR reviewer as "sincere, urgent and unflinchingly honest," was honored with both the Silver Bear Jury Prize and the Silver Bear for Best Supporting Performance, awarded to Tom Courtenay and Anna Calder-Marshall for their roles as a married couple. Juliette Binoche and Florence Hunt also feature in the movie. Distribution deals for 'Queen at Sea' span the UK & Ireland (Curzon), Poland (Aurora), Benelux (Imagine Film), South Korea (Challan), Switzerland (Frenetic Films), Greece (Cinobo), Portugal (FILMS4YOU), former Yugoslavia (Investacommerce AG), the Baltics (Scanorama), Taiwan (Andrews Film), and Latin America (Cine Canibal). Ongoing discussions suggest further expansion into additional territories for both cinematic works.
The successful global distribution of these award-winning films underscores the power of compelling storytelling and exceptional performances to transcend cultural boundaries. It highlights the thriving international market for thought-provoking cinema that resonates with diverse audiences, fostering a shared appreciation for artistic achievement and human experience.

