Sony Pictures Classics has taken the rights to two high profile films at the Sundance Film Festival. The company started off the sales stampede last week with the acquisition of the musical documentary SEARCHING FOR SUGARMAN. The film, a Swedish/UK co-production directed by Malik Bendjelloul, tells the tale of Rodriguez, a 1970s rock n roller who quickly fell out of favor and died, but was rediscovered by avid fans in South Africa. The film follows two South African fans who go on a journey to find out more about their musical idol. The film is competing in the World Cinema Documentary competition. SPC’s second pick up is a world away in terms of content and style. CELESTE AND JESSE FOREVER is a charming romcom by newcomer Lee Toland Krieger that stars Rashida Jones and Andy Samberg as former high school lovers who marry and then divorce years later. Late year releases are expected for both.

Sandy Mandelberger