Row K Entertainment has acquired U.S. distribution rights to “Cliffhanger,” a reimagining of the 1993 classic directed by Jaume Collet-Serra. This latest version of the live-action thriller stars Pierce Brosnan and Lily James.
The acquisition marks Row K Entertainment’s third deal out of TIFF since its launch in August. Its other acquisitions include Gus Van Sant’s “Dead Man’s Wire” starring Bill Skarsgård, Dacre Montgomery, Cary Elwes, Myha’la, Colman Domingo and Al Pacino; and Tom Dean and Mac Eldridge’s “Charlie Harper” starring Nick Robinson and Emilia Jones.
“Cliffhanger” is currently in post-production and is slated for wide theatrical release in 2026.
The film centers on seasoned mountaineer, Ray Cooper (Brosnan), who operates a luxury chalet in the Dolomites with his daughter, Sydney. According to the film’s description, the story takes place “during a weekend trip with a billionaire’s son, where they are targeted by a gang of kidnappers. Ray’s daughter Naomi (James), still haunted by a past climbing accident, witnesses the attack and escapes. To save her family, she must confront her fears and fight for survival.”
“Cliffhanger” was written by Ana Lily Amirpour, Sascha Penn, Mark Bianculli and Melanie Toast. Producers include Lars Sylvest of Thank You Pictures, Joe Neurauter of Supernix, Thorsten Schumacher of Rocket Science, and Neal Moritz and Toby Jaffe.
The acquisition was negotiated on behalf of the filmmakers by CAA Media Finance, which is representing domestic rights. Rocket Science is handling international sales.
Friday, September 26
African American Film Critics Association Sets Dates for 17th Annual Awards
The African American Film Critics Association will reveal the recipients of its 17th Annual AAFCA Awards on Dec 8 and host an invitation-only celebration of the winners on Feb. 18, 2026. The announcement comes from AAFCA president and co-founder Gil Robertson, and the awards recognize outstanding achievements in cinema representing the black diaspora across fifteen different categories.
Submissions for the awards opened on Sept. 22 and the screener deadline is Nov. 26. Voting will take place Nov. 28 – Dec. 5 ahead of the awards announcements.
The celebration will take place at the Beverly Wilshire Hotel in Beverly Hills, Ca.
Wednesday, September 24
CBN Films and Fathom Entertainment to Release “Oracles of God” In Theaters
CBN Films and Fathom Entertainment have unveiled the theatrical release of “Oracles of God: The Story of the New Testament,” on Nov. 2, 3, and 5.
The documentary will explore how the letters and the gospels of the New Testament were written, preserved, and passed down as the most influential book in history. With interviews, historical reenactments, and archaeological evidence, the film will explore the identity of the New Testament and when they wrote it.
“Matters of faith, including inspirational storytelling and documentaries, have long been a key part of Fathom’s wide array of specialty content offerings for theatres. With “Oracles of God,” we are very pleased to partner with CBN Films and bring this engaging biblical film to audiences across the nation,” said Ray Nutt, Chief Executive Officer for Fathom Entertainment.
Tickets are available through Fathom Entertainment’s website.
Monday, September 22
California Film Institute Names Rose Kuo as Artistic Director
The California Film Institute (CAFILM) has named Rose Kuo as Artistic Director, a newly created leadership position established earlier this year to guide the organization’s artistic vision.
In this role, Kuo will oversee the artistic and curatorial direction of CAFILM’s programs, such as the Mill Valley Film Festival, DocLands Documentary Film Festival, the Smith Rafael Film Center in San Rafael, the Sequoia Cinema in Mill Valley, and CAFILM Education initiatives.
“Rose brings a remarkable combination of international experience, artistic vision, and deep commitment to the cinematic arts,” said Mark Fishkin, CAFILM Founder and Executive Director. “Her leadership will ensure that CAFILM continues to champion independent voices, engage audiences, and inspire the next generation of filmmakers.”
Previously, Kuo served as Executive Director of the Film Society of Lincoln Center and the New York Film Festival. Prior to joining CAFILM, Kuo held the position of Artistic Director at AFI FEST.
In addition to her cinematic arts background, Kuo founded Festworks, a film consultancy organization, where she previously advised major studios on global festival strategies, collaborating with nonprofit cinema arts groups and audience engagement.
