We’ve been wondering if Jane Campion’s “Bright Star” could potentially be a return to form.
For one it’s a return to creating a period piece — her strongest domain and one she hasn’t revisited since 1996 — and for two, it’s her first film to be in competition at Cannes since 1993 when she won won the Palme d’Or for “The Piano.”
Returning to Cannes after a 16 year break is a strong sign. Another good augur: the U.S. distribution rights to the film have already been snatched up according to ScreenDaily, who reports that Bill Pohlad (formerly of River Road Entertainment) and Bob Berney’s (founder of IFC Films) new North American distribution venture has bought the film.
Of course the new buyers are raving about the film, based on the short-lived love affair between John Keats (played by Ben Whishaw) and Fanny Brawne (Abbie Cornish). “Bright Star is a tour-de-force from Jane Campion,” Berney told ScreenDaily. “She has created a film that’s classic, yet uniquely modern. The film captures the love and unbridled passion between Keats and Fanny in a way that transcends period and will connect with young audiences today.”
Whether its star-crossed tale really does connect with young audiences” (think the “Twilight” crowd, prolly not), remains to be seen, but regardless, the acquisition can’t be seen as anything less than a positive endorsement of the film. Obviously buyers are hedging their bets these days too, so yeah, sounds positive all around.