Screenxcope has acquired Australian and New Zealand rights to “Roid,” partnering with DeshiEvents for a theatrical release slated for early June across both territories.
The Bangladeshi drama had its premiere as a Tiger Competition selection at International Film Festival Rotterdam‘s 55th edition. “Roid” has also been selected for the Seattle International Film Festival.
Directed by Mejbaur Rahman Sumon, the film marks his second feature following “Hawa,” which served as Bangladesh’s Academy Award submission in 2022 and made history as the country’s first feature to appear on U.S. box office charts.
Bongo produces “Roid” alongside Facecard Production, with Apoorva Bakshi of Awedacious Originals serving as executive producer. Set in the Bangladeshi countryside during a pre-digital era, the film centers on Sadu, an impoverished tenant farmer who lives in isolation with his volatile wife. Despite his repeated efforts to leave her in unfamiliar places, she keeps finding her way back, transforming the rural drama into an allegory about desire, attachment and fate.
“‘Roid’ is a deeply universal film that cuts across cultures and geographies,” said Sakib Iftekhar, founder and director of Screenxcope. “There is something deeply human and instinctive in the film that stays with us and strongly aligns with the kind of work we seek to champion on our slate.”
Sayed Faiz, CEO of DeshiEvents, added: “‘Roid’ brings together strong artistic intent and audience resonance across both diaspora and wider markets, and we’re excited to bring this film to theatres across Australia and New Zealand.”
Screenxcope has previously distributed acclaimed international titles including Cannes and Venice selections “Tiger Stripes” and “Pooja, Sir,” positioning itself as a distributor focused on globally recognized independent cinema.
Further details on release dates and rollout strategy will be unveiled in the coming weeks.
variety.com
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