Samuel Goldwyn Films has taken an exciting leap into the realm of international cinema by securing the North American rights to the French survival thriller “Survive.” Directed by Frédéric Jardin and penned by Matt Alexander, this film is poised to captivate audiences with its blend of high-stakes adventure and palpable emotional depth. Slated for a release in theaters and on VOD platforms in January, “Survive” features an impressive lineup, including Emilie Dequenne, Andreas Pietschmann, and Lisa Delamar.
At its core, “Survive” presents a gripping narrative that encapsulates the struggles of a family celebrating an ordinary occasion under extraordinary circumstances. The film begins with Julia and her husband commemorating their son’s birthday on a tranquil boat ride. In a twist of fate, their joy quickly transforms into horror as a ferocious storm threatens their very existence, catapulting them into an unrecognizable and desolate landscape. The movie delves into a thought-provoking premise: a world languishing from a catastrophic shift in Earth’s polarity, leading to a dramatic withdrawal of the ocean waters.
This foundational setup not only offers the visceral thrills expected from a survival tale but also raises intriguing questions about humanity’s relationship with nature and the often-fleeting nature of security. As the family is forced to navigate this new reality, they must contend not only with the elements, but also with sinister creatures lurking in the shadows, constantly on the prowl for their next meal.
Zach Martin, the head of marketing at Samuel Goldwyn Films, has expressed his confidence in “Survive,” citing its high production value and emotional resonance, which have already garnered attention and accolades in Europe. This highlights the film’s potential to resonate with U.S. audiences, promising a thrilling cinematic experience that encompasses both heart-pounding action and a compelling emotional narrative.
The film is produced by Marc Stanimirovic and Marc-Etienne Schwartz, with Ludovic Naar taking on the role of executive producer. This trio’s combined expertise in filmmaking suggests that “Survive” is not just another thriller, but a carefully crafted piece of art that balances engaging plot dynamics with profound emotional beats.
Anticipation for U.S. Audiences
As the release date approaches, excitement is building around “Survive.” The film’s unique blend of survival horror, adventure, and family drama presents a fresh take on the genre, which may resonate deeply with audiences who appreciate both intense thrills and heartfelt storytelling. With a distribution strategy that includes both theaters and VOD, “Survive” promises to reach a wide audience and invites viewers to immerse themselves in a visceral experience that extends beyond the screen.
“Survive” is an ambitious film that stands as a testament to the power of storytelling in cinema. It challenges perceptions while delivering an entertaining and thought-provoking narrative, making it a highlight to watch for in the coming year. The collaboration between Samuel Goldwyn Films and the creative team behind “Survive” signals a renewed commitment to bringing high-quality international films to North American audiences.