Passion and Persistence: The Driving Forces Behind Unconventional Cinema

The Genesis of "Josephine": A Decade-Long Endeavor

Beth de Araújo's film, "Josephine," a project spanning 12 years, recently clinched a double victory at Sundance. Despite its eventual success, producer David Kaplan revealed the immense difficulty in securing financing for the film, largely due to its somber narrative. The story revolves around an 8-year-old girl witnessing a traumatic event, a theme that many in the market found too grim for commercial viability.

Overcoming Financial Hurdles: A Leap of Faith

Kaplan elaborated on the precarious financial journey of "Josephine," which was only fully funded six days into principal photography. He recounted the widespread skepticism from potential investors who questioned the film's commercial appeal given its dark subject matter. The film's eventual sale to Sumerian Pictures for a substantial seven-figure sum at the European Film Market was a testament to perseverance and a belief in the project's artistic merit.

The Role of Star Power and Collective Belief

Channing Tatum and Gemma Chan, who took on roles as both actors and producers, were instrumental in getting "Josephine" off the ground. Their unwavering commitment, including Tatum's active participation in investor pitches, showcased a rare level of dedication. Kaplan emphasized that such challenging films require a "village of people who believe," highlighting the sacrifices made by everyone involved, including himself, who forewent an upfront fee.

Discovering Raw Talent: The Casting of Mason Lily Reeves

The search for the lead actress, Mason Lily Reeves, was an extraordinary one. Discovered by de Araújo at a farmers' market just seven weeks before filming, Reeves's natural talent convinced the director despite the additional complexities her young age brought to production schedules and labor laws. This unconventional casting choice further underscored the team's commitment to the film's authenticity.

A Glimpse into Future Projects: "It Follows" Sequel and "Triumph of the Will"

Beyond "Josephine," Kaplan's production company, Kaplan Morrison, is actively developing several new projects. Among them is the much-anticipated sequel to David Robert Mitchell's cult horror film "It Follows," which Neon has acquired and is expected to begin filming soon. Additionally, Kaplan is in post-production for "Triumph of the Will," a WWII-era drama directed by Gabriel Nussbaum and starring Shira Haas, signaling a diverse and ambitious slate of upcoming productions.