IFC Films has acquired the North American rights to “Sword of Trust,” starring Marc Maron and from director Lynn Shelton, the company announced Friday.
Shelton’s drama made its premiere at this year’s SXSW Film Festival, and IFC will release the film theatrically this summer.
Co-written by Lynn Shelton (“Humpday,” “Your Sister’s Sister,” “Laggies”) and Mike O’Brien, the film also stars Jillian Bell, Michaela Watkins, and Jon Bass.
“Sword of Trust” unfolds as Cynthia (Bell) and Mary (Watkins) show up to collect Cynthia’s inheritance from her deceased grandfather. The only item she’s received is an antique sword that he believed to be proof that the South won the Civil War. The two attempt to unload the object to a curmudgeonly pawnshop owner Mel (Maron) and his man-child sidekick Nathaniel (Bass). When Mel and Nathaniel discover there’s a black market for the relic, the two pairs reluctantly join forces to sell this rarefied “prover item” to the highest bidder. The adventure that ensues takes the four of them on a wild journey into the depths of conspiracy theory and Southern disillusionment.
“Sword of Trust” is produced by Ted Speaker and Lynn Shelton, executive produced by Peter Gilbert, Eddie Linker, and Joe Swanberg at Forager Films.
IFC Films previously collaborated with Shelton on her sophomore feature “Your Sister’s Sister,” starring Emily Blunt, Mark Duplass, and Rosemarie DeWitt.
“The partnership between Lynn Shelton and Marc Maron couldn’t be more in tune. Lynn’s background in improvisation with Marc’s trademark wit is the perfect storm for a brilliant performance and a film that bursts with comedic energy,” Arianna Bocco, EVP of acquisitions and productions of IFC Films, said in a statement.
“We are thrilled to continue our relationship with Lynn after the success of ‘Your Sister’s Sister.’ Her sharp wit and observant sense of humor is unparalleled, and we are excited to partner with her and the entire filmmaking team on the release,” Lisa Schwartz, co-president of IFC Films, added.
“I’m so excited to be partnering with IFC Films on the unsheathing of ‘Sword of Trust,’ Shelton said in a statement. “The film was a true labor of love and I can’t wait for audiences across the country to see it. And it’s an added treat to be working once again with my friends at IFC Films to get it out into the world!”
The deal for the film was negotiated by Arianna Bocco and UTA on behalf of the filmmakers