The Journey of “Josephine”: A Producer’s Insight

As I reflect on the recent developments surrounding the film “Josephine,” produced by David Kaplan, I can’t help but marvel at the intricate dance of risk, ambition, and sheer determination that has characterized its journey. The film, helmed by Beth de Araújo, recently secured a significant distribution deal with Sumerian Pictures at the European Film Market in Berlin, an event that underscores the film’s potential in a challenging market.

A Risky Investment with High Stakes

The late-night deal finalized just before Kaplan’s on-stage discussion was emblematic of the film industry’s unpredictable nature. “Josephine,” which garnered double awards at Sundance, was sold for a “mid-to-high seven figures” after a long and arduous journey to financing. Here are some key points that stand out:

• Budget Constraints: The film was budgeted at $6 million and faced financing challenges from the outset, closing its funding only six days into shooting.
• Investor Assurance: Kaplan emphasized the importance of ensuring returns for investors who took significant risks, a sentiment that resonates deeply in the industry.
• Meaningful Partnerships: Sumerian’s commitment to marketing and theatrical release played a crucial role in swaying Kaplan and his team towards this distributor.

This highlights a broader theme in filmmaking: the crucial relationship between producers and investors. Kaplan’s dedication to ensuring profitability reflects a fundamental truth—without satisfied backers, future projects could be jeopardized.

Creative Challenges and Triumphs

The narrative of “Josephine” is not your typical feel-good story. Inspired by traumatic events, it tells the story of a child’s experience with violence and the subsequent emotional turmoil for her family. This premise, while powerful, posed significant hurdles in attracting financing and distribution. Kaplan noted:

• Market Resistance: “99% of the people we went to…said, ‘Absolutely not,’” he recalled, underscoring the industry’s hesitance to engage with darker themes.
• Gender Bias: Kaplan pointed to an “inherent bias” against films focused on women’s stories and assault survivors, a barrier that many filmmakers continue to face.
• Star Power: The involvement of A-list actors like Channing Tatum and Gemma Chan was pivotal, with Tatum even pitching to investors personally—a rarity in Hollywood.

This juxtaposition of creative ambition against commercial viability speaks volumes about the current landscape of the film industry. While audiences crave authenticity and depth, financiers often shy away from stories that explore uncomfortable truths.

The Road Ahead

Looking forward, Kaplan’s production company, Kaplan Morrison, is developing several projects, including a sequel to “It Follows” and a WWII-inspired film titled “Triumph of the Will.” The ambition is palpable, and his dedication to storytelling shines through. Notably, Kaplan’s decision to shoot in San Francisco—an integral part of the film’s fabric—demonstrates a commitment to authenticity.

As “Josephine” prepares for its release, it serves as a testament to the power of perseverance in the filmmaking process. It is a film born from sacrifice and passion, and I am eager to see how it resonates with audiences.

For those interested in a deeper dive into the intricacies of this story, I invite you to read the original article at Variety.