Entertainment
Joint Venture Acquires Thriller 'If You See Something,' Set for Theatrical Release
2025-06-25

Joint Venture, a newly established independent film studio, has successfully acquired the North American rights to \"If You See Something,\" a compelling thriller directed by Iraqi filmmaker Oday Rasheed. This acquisition marks a significant move for the nascent studio, indicating its commitment to bringing diverse and thought-provoking narratives to the cinematic landscape. The film, which delves into themes of identity, trust, and the shadows of past lives, is poised to engage audiences with its intricate plot and emotional depth.

The film's journey began with its world premiere at the Woodstock Film Festival in October 2024, where it garnered attention for its unique storyline and the powerful performances of its cast. Joint Venture's decision to distribute \"If You See Something\" highlights the studio's strategic vision to curate a portfolio of films that resonate with contemporary audiences while offering fresh perspectives. The upcoming theatrical release is anticipated to provide a broad platform for this suspenseful drama, allowing a wider audience to experience its captivating narrative.

Joint Venture's Strategic Film Acquisition

Joint Venture has made a notable entry into the independent film distribution scene by acquiring \"If You See Something,\" a thriller that captivated audiences at its world premiere. The film, helmed by acclaimed Iraqi director Oday Rasheed, offers a compelling exploration of human connections and the repercussions of hidden histories. This strategic move underscores Joint Venture's dedication to championing unique cinematic voices and bringing them to the forefront of North American cinema. The acquisition signals the studio's ambition to become a significant player in the indie film market, focusing on storytelling that transcends conventional boundaries and offers profound insights into the human condition.

The narrative of \"If You See Something\" centers on a nuanced romance between an American woman and an Iraqi doctor, whose pursuit of political asylum in the United States sets the stage for a dramatic unraveling of secrets. The film's ability to weave together a love story with elements of suspense and intrigue resonated strongly with festival attendees and critics alike. Chris Lane, President of Distribution and Audience at Joint Venture, expressed enthusiasm for the film, emphasizing its potent blend of emotional resonance and unexpected twists. The studio's decision to greenlight a theatrical release for later in the year reflects confidence in the film's broad appeal and its potential to foster meaningful discussions among viewers.

The Thematic Depth and Production Excellence of 'If You See Something'

Oday Rasheed's directorial prowess shines through in \"If You See Something,\" a thriller praised for its capacity to emotionally and intellectually engage its audience. The film's core explores the intricacies of a relationship challenged by concealed pasts, highlighting the fragility of new beginnings when confronted with lingering shadows. Rasheed's personal reflections as an immigrant filmmaker have infused the project with a distinctive authenticity, allowing for a nuanced portrayal of displacement and the quest for belonging. This deeply personal connection to the film's themes has undoubtedly contributed to its compelling narrative and the profound impact it had on audiences at its premiere.

The ensemble cast, featuring Adam Bakri, Jess Jacobs, Nassir Faris, and Tony-Award winner Reed Birney, delivers powerful performances that anchor the film's emotional intensity. The production team, including producers Jacobs, Stephanie Roush, Brian Newman, Frank Hall Green, Caitlin Zvoleff, Andre Basso, and Joseph Stephans, alongside executive producers Paul Jacobs and Doug Liman, have brought this intricate story to life with remarkable skill. Liman, known for his work on both blockbusters and independent features, joined the project as an executive producer after its world premiere, further solidifying the film's credentials. The collaborative effort across writing, acting, and production has resulted in a film that is not only thrilling but also rich in its exploration of community, trust, and the pursuit of truth.

more stories
See more