In a strategic move to captivate audiences and address supply challenges in the wake of the Hollywood strikes, Sony Pictures Classics (SPC) has successfully acquired all rights in North America (excluding French Canada) for Jean-Pierre Jeunet’s beloved film, ‘Amélie.’ Set to be reissued on February 14, 2024, this marks 22 years since its original release through Miramax.
Starring Audrey Tautou as the altruistic waitress navigating Montmartre, Paris, ‘Amélie’ earned $174 million globally in 2002, with $33 million in North America alone. The acquisition of rights from TF1 Studio, now known as Newen Connect, paved the way for SPC to bring this iconic film back to 250 theatres nationwide.
With a track record of success in releasing Jeunet’s previous works, including ‘The City Of Lost Children’ in 1995 and ‘Micmacs’ in 2009, SPC expressed enthusiasm about collaborating with the acclaimed director once again. The announcement stated, “We are excited to work with Jeunet again, this time by reissuing one of his best films, an irresistibly delightful tale brought to life by Audrey Tautou’s iconic performance.”
Despite the two-decade gap since ‘Amélie’s’ original release, the film’s enduring legacy and popularity remain evident. SPC aims to reintroduce this classic to enchant both loyal fans and a new generation of moviegoers. The decision to reissue comes as theatres actively court older audiences and navigate potential challenges in the year ahead, given the production halt during the Hollywood strikes.
‘Amélie’ not only won the People’s Choice Award at the 2001 Toronto International Film Festival but also secured five Oscar nominations, including Best Foreign Language Film, Best Original Screenplay, and Best Cinematography. As the Valentine’s Day reissue approaches, SPC anticipates a warm reception, reaffirming the timeless appeal of ‘Amélie’ in the hearts of cinema enthusiasts.
