A24 Acquires Olivia Wilde's Comedy 'The Invite' Starring Seth Rogen: Inside the $12 Million Deal
Olivia Wilde's film "The Invite" has been acquired by A24 after a competitive bidding process. The comedy, directed by Wilde and starring Seth Rogen, Penelope Cruz, and Edward Norton, revolves around a dinner party that takes an unexpected turn. The sale, valued at over $12 million, marks a significant deal for the film.
Wilde collaborated with Annapurna, the studio behind her directorial debut "Booksmart," on "The Invite." The decision to opt for a traditional theatrical release was a key factor in the negotiations. The screenplay, penned by Rashida Jones and Will McCormack, is a remake of the Spanish film "The People Upstairs."
Despite a slow sales market at the Sundance Film Festival, other projects like "Leviticus," "Wicker," and "Josephine" have garnered interest from potential buyers. Wilde's involvement in multiple films at the festival, including "The Invite" and "I Want Your Sex," has generated buzz and anticipation among audiences.
Critics have lauded "The Invite" as a captivating blend of comedy and drama, with Variety's chief film critic Owen Gleiberman praising the film for its humor and unexpected twists. The success of the film's acquisition by A24 sets the stage for its anticipated release and reception in the coming months.