EXCLUSIVE: Buffalo 8 has acquired the North American theatrical and digital distribution rights to PH-1 out of TIFF.
The film is described as a “tense political thriller.” It is directed by Mark Kassen (Jobs), who also stars in the lead role.
Set entirely in a high-rise penthouse, PH-1 follows promising politician Payton Burnham (Kassen), who is held hostage by an anonymous captor and forced to movie as his life is systematically dismantled in real-time by both social and traditional media. As the hours tick by, he must unravel the identity and motives of his tormentor—before there’s nothing left to salvage.
The film co-stars Abubakar Salim (House of Dragons), Dina Shihabi (Tom Clancy’s Jack Ryan), Jesse L. Martin (The Flash, Rent, Law & Order), and Vinessa Shaw (3:10 to Yuma, Eyes Wide Shut).
PH-1 was written by Cheryl Guerriero (Palmer, Hunting Season) and Kassen. The film is produced by Iliana Nikolic (Machete, 13) alongside Kassen for Like Minded Entertainment, and executive produced by Julian West.
Buffalo 8 executive producers include Co-Founders Matthew Helderman and Luke Taylor, along with Head of Distribution, Nikki Stier Justice, and Director of Distribution and Acquisitions, Jacob Silvera.
“We couldn’t be more thrilled to be working with Buffalo 8. The passion with which they’ve approached our film matches the care of the incredible team that helped make it. We can’t wait to share PH-1 with audiences,” said Kassen.
PH-1 will be available in theatres and across digital platforms through Buffalo 8, with further details on its release to be announced.
Silvera added: “We’re thrilled to bring PH-1 to audiences, as its themes feel especially relevant in today’s landscape of social media and political polarization. The film is both thrilling and thought-provoking, combining a high-stakes narrative with sharp social commentary that challenges viewers to reflect on the world we live in.”
The offer was negotiated by CAA Media Finance and Jacob Silvera, Director of Distribution and Acquisitions at Buffalo 8. Kassen, who is represented by CAA, will next be seen in Ben Affleck’s upcoming feature ANIMALS.
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