The Swiss Oscar entry, Thunder, written and directed by Carmen Jacquier, has garnered the attention of renowned film professionals Vanessa Kirby and Lauren Dark, who have joined as executive producers for the awards campaign. Under their production banner, Aluna Entertainment, Kirby and Dark will support Thunder’s bid for the Best International Feature category. Set in the year 1900, the film revolves around 17-year-old Elisabeth, played by Lilith Grasmug, who is called back to her mountain village upon the sudden passing of her older sister.
Kirby and Dark were captivated by Thunder during its premiere at the Marrakech Film Festival, recognizing the remarkable talent of newcomer Carmen Jacquier. The film caught their attention with its daring and poetic storytelling, establishing Jacquier as an exciting voice in the world of cinema. Kirby and Dark expressed their pride in championing Jacquier’s artistry, highlighting her as a profound emerging talent deserving of recognition.
Jacquier’s aspiration with Thunder is to inspire a more just world, one in which women are liberated from violence and granted the freedom to explore their bodies and spirituality as they choose. Enthusiastically, Vanessa Kirby and Lauren Dark have joined forces to support this empowering mission. Their involvement empowers Jacquier to amplify her message and sparks hope for a future where women can break free from societal constraints.
Having made its world premiere at the highly acclaimed Toronto International Film Festival in 2022, Thunder continued its successful journey with a European premiere in San Sebastián and subsequent prize-winning screenings in Zurich, Rome, Thessaloniki, and numerous other festivals. Throughout its festival circuit, the film received over a dozen awards, solidifying Carmen Jacquier’s position as a rising talent. Jacquier’s outstanding achievements were recognized at the Cannes Film Festival, where she was presented with the Women in Motion’s Emerging Talent Award.
In the United States, Thunder is being distributed by Dekanalog, premiering at New York’s IFC Center on October 25. The film’s release has garnered excitement and anticipation, captivating audiences with its compelling narrative and powerful performances. Thunder will expand its presence to Los Angeles on November 10, paving the way for a wider audience to experience its transformative storytelling.
Close Up Films’ Flavia Zanon and Joëlle Bertossa brought Thunder to fruition with Carmen Jacquier at the helm. The collaboration between the talented cast and crew resulted in a visually stunning and emotionally resonant film that pushes boundaries and challenges societal norms. The dedication and passion of everyone involved in the production elevate Thunder to a remarkable and significant piece of cinema.
Thunder represents an empowering journey that challenges conventions and inspires change. With the support of Vanessa Kirby, Lauren Dark, and the countless individuals who embraced Thunder on its festival run, Carmen Jacquier’s directorial debut emerges as a powerful force in the industry. As audiences eagerly await the film’s release, Thunder continues to gather momentum, poised to make a resounding impact at the Oscars and beyond.