Elephant Eye Closes New Deals For Lee Daniels' Sundance Winner Precious

Elephant Eye Films has announced that it has closed distribution deals with France (ARP), Spain (Filmax) and Greece (Videorama) for Lee Daniels' 'Precious: Based on the novel Push by Sapphire' (formerly known as 'Push: Based on a novel by Sapphire').
The film - which tells the story of Precious Jones, a teenage girl in Harlem, who struggles against all odds to discover her own voice - received three prizes at this year's Sundance Film Festival, including the Jury and Audience Awards.
Michéle Halberstadt of ARP, said: "Precious' is an unforgettable emotional journey, beautifully acted and masterfully directed. We have a real passion for the film, and are proud to become part of such a 'precious' family. We're looking forward to bringing the film to French audiences."
Carlos Rojano, Managing Director of Business at Filmax, commented: "'Precious' is a uniquely powerful film and we are very happy to have the rights for Spain. Without doubt, we have one of 2009's sleepers because of the impact this film will surely make this year."
Vicente Canales, Head of Filmax's International Division, added: "'Precious' is a film that cannot fail to cause strong emotional reactions in those who see it. We are dealing with one of this year's truly great pictures."
Kim Jose, partner at Elephant Eye Films, continued: "We feel very confident that 'Precious' will have the best possible release with such passionate distributors onboard."
Elephant Eye will begin production on the feature film 'Fratgirl', written and directed by Nate Meyer, in early summer 2009. Other projects in development include: "The World to Come', 'The Harvest' and 'Country Song'.
(KMcA/BMcC)