TIFF Market Watch: SERBIS

Friday, September 5--------One of the first announcements of a US distribution deal was made today, on the first day of full out screenings here at the Toronto International Film Festival. Regent Releasing, a leading independent U.S. distributor, announcedthat it has acquired North American distribution rights to Serbis (Service), the new film from acclaimed Filipino filmmaker Brillante Mendoza.  Regent acquired the film from international sales agent Fortissimo Films and will distribute Serbis in select cities this winter.

The film was an official selection at the 2008 Cannes Film Festival, the first Filipino film in 24 years to be in competition at Cannes. Following its screening in Toronto, the film will make its U.S. premiere at the 46th New York Film Festival next month.

Raw and uncompromising, Serbis follows the travails of the Pineda family in the Filipino city of Angeles. Bigamy, unwanted pregnancy and possible incest are all part of their daily challenges, but the real “star” of the show is a dilapidated movie theater that doubles as family business and living space. At one time a prestige establishment, the theater now runs porn double bills and serves as a meeting ground for hustlers of every conceivable persuasion.

"Serbis is a bold and inventive film from one of the Philippine’s most prominent directors,” said Mark Reinhart, Regent EVP for Distribution and Acquisitions. “We are thrilled to bring Brillante’s compelling vision to U.S. audiences this winter following the film’s strong premiere at three of the most prestigious international film festivals.”

Sandy Mandelberger, Toronto FF Dailies Editor