Grasshopper Film and streaming platform DOCUMENTARY+ have joined forces to acquire the highly acclaimed film “Apolonia, Apolonia” for North American distribution. As the nomination voting for the 96th Academy Awards begins, this extraordinary feature directed by Lea Glob offers an intimate portrayal of French painter Apolonia Sokol’s life over the span of 13 years. The film delves into her pursuit of preserving artistic integrity in a male-dominated art world and culture. With the acquisition, Grasshopper Film plans to release the film theatrically at DCTV’s Firehouse Cinema in New York, followed by a digital release on DOCUMENTARY+.
“Apolonia, Apolonia” is a poignant exploration of friendship, personal and creative fulfillment, and the complexities of the female body within the art world. The film captures the challenges and sacrifices faced by women seeking artistic achievement. Through the lens of Lea Glob, both Sokol and the audience witness the evolution of two women, one in front of the camera and the other behind it. The Guardian lauds the film’s ability to shed light on the entrenched inequalities prevalent in both the art world and the wider society.
Ryan Krivoshey, founder and president of Grasshopper Film, expresses his admiration for Glob’s achievement in crafting “Apolonia, Apolonia,” considering its nuanced and incisive portrayal of a young female artist navigating a journey spanning Paris, Copenhagen, and Los Angeles. The film illuminates the persistent inequalities in the art world and society at large. Through the collaboration between Grasshopper Film and DOCUMENTARY+, this impactful film will reach audiences across North America, offering a profound reflection on societal disparities.
Shane Riley, head of sales and distribution strategy for XTR/DOCUMENTARY+, emphasizes the significance of working with the team behind “Apolonia, Apolonia.” The collaboration between a FAST channel and distributor represents an innovative approach as DOCUMENTARY+ expands its horizons. This partnership allows the film to transcend traditional distribution barriers, reaching audiences through various screens and platforms. Both parties celebrate this groundbreaking alliance and their shared commitment to bringing remarkable documentaries to audiences worldwide.
Lea Glob, the director of “Apolonia, Apolonia,” expresses her delight in securing a position in the U.S. market thanks to the support of Grasshopper Film and DOCUMENTARY+. Having followed Apolonia Sokol and her artistic journey to the United States, Glob now finds herself on a parallel journey, marking the close of one chapter and the beginning of something new. With humility and gratitude, she approaches the American audience, eager to share her film’s artistic insights and touch the hearts of viewers.
“Apolonia, Apolonia” has garnered acclaim worldwide, with its latest triumph being the top prize at the 2022 International Documentary Festival Amsterdam (IDFA). The film has also achieved recognition at renowned festivals such as CPH:DOX in Copenhagen, the Hong Kong International Film Festival, Sofia International Film Festival in Bulgaria, and Millennium Docs Against Gravity in Poland. The New York Times has even bestowed the title of Critic’s Pick upon this captivating documentary. Reviewer Alissa Wilkinson celebrates the film’s unique perspective, which transcends a mere biography of Apolonia Sokol and instead offers a profound observation of the artistic process.
The acquisition deal for “Apolonia, Apolonia” was expertly executed by Ryan Krivoshey of Grasshopper Film and Shane Riley of DOCUMENTARY+. The negotiation process involved Sigrid Dyekjær of Real Lava and Catherine Le Clef of CAT&Docs. The film was produced by Sidsel Lønvig Siersted for Danish Documentary Production, with Małgorzata Staroń as the co-producer for Staron-Film. Notable executive producers of the film include Sigrid Dyekjær, Hanka Kastelicova, Eva Mulvad, Pernille Rose Grønkjær, and Mikala Krogh. With the collective efforts of these talented individuals, “Apolonia, Apolonia” has found a permanent home in the United States, resonating with audiences and leaving a lasting impact.
“Apolonia, Apolonia” stands as a testament to the power of art in challenging societal norms and addressing gender inequality. Lea Glob’s directorial prowess, combined with Grasshopper Film and DOCUMENTARY+’s innovative distribution approaches, ensures that this film will captivate audiences and incite meaningful discussions. As viewers embark on Sokol’s journey and reflect on the obstacles faced by female artists, they gain insight into the resilience and determination necessary to overcome longstanding disparities. “Apolonia, Apolonia” offers a transformative viewing experience, reminding us of the enduring power of art to provoke change and foster understanding in an ever-evolving world.