EXCLUSIVE: Menemsha Films has acquired North American rights for Belgian drama The Soundman, following its well-received U.S. premiere at the Palm Springs International Film Festival in January.
Set on the eve of the German invasion of Belgium and the Netherlands, the drama explores the situation for Belgian Jews, torn between staying in their homeland amid or fleeing for an unknown destiny, through the prism of a love story and the microcosm of the broadcast radio world.
The story unfolds in Brussel’s iconic Maison de la Radio Flagey building in Brussels, which was then home to National Institute for Radio Broadcasting (NIR).
Elza (Femke Vanhove), a young actress making her debut in radio drama, meets Berre, a gifted soundman and foley expert with a magical ear. Their love story develops in the shadow of the approaching storm. The cast also features Koen De Bouw (Professor T) and Peter Van den Begin (King of the Belgians)
The film marks a buzzy return to the theatrical features for Belgian director and producer Frank Van Passel, best known for Cannes breakout and Oscar entry Mannekin Pis and Villa des Roses, with more recent credits including mystery thriller series Moresnet.
The deal was negotiated by Menemsha’s Neil A. Friedman and Tine Klint of LevelK, which is continuing sales on the title at the EFM.
The Soundman is produced by Caviar (Sound of Metal, The Rider, War Pony)