Clio Barnard's latest cinematic achievement, "I See Buildings Fall Like Lightning," has secured a North American theatrical release following its impressive run at international film festivals and recent British Independent Film Award nominations. Kino Lorber, a prominent independent film distributor, has acquired the rights to bring this compelling drama to audiences across the continent.
Kino Lorber Acquires Distribution Rights for "I See Buildings Fall Like Lightning"
In a significant move for independent cinema, Kino Lorber has finalized an agreement to distribute Clio Barnard's acclaimed feature, "I See Buildings Fall Like Lightning," throughout North America. The film, a poignant adaptation of Keiran Goddard's novel, saw its global debut at Cannes' Directors' Fortnight, where it was honored with the audience award. Subsequently, it achieved further recognition at the Rome Film Festival, claiming the top prize in the progressive cinema competition, and saw its lead actor, Anthony Boyle, receive a best actor award. Its recent nomination for eight British Independent Film Awards, including Best British Independent Film, Best Director, and Best Screenplay, underscores its critical success.
The narrative centers on a group of five childhood friends—Patrick, Shiv, Rian, Oli, and Conor—who grew up together on an estate in Birmingham. Their youthful dreams of future success and happiness are contrasted with the challenging realities they face as they approach their thirties. Patrick, portrayed by Anthony Boyle, and Shiv, played by Lola Petticrew, navigate a crisis in their seemingly perfect marriage ignited by a long-buried secret. Jay Lycurgo's character, Oli, known for his vibrant energy, grapples with a downward spiral, while Daryl McCormack's Conor anticipates fatherhood and envisions a transformative business venture. Joe Cole's Rian, the only one to escape the estate for a high-flying career in London property development, finds himself increasingly isolated and longing for the connections he left behind. As their individual struggles intensify, the bonds of their once-unbreakable friendship are tested, and their shared aspirations appear more elusive than ever.
The distribution deal was orchestrated between Kino Lorber's VP of Acquisitions, Karoliina Dwyer, and international sales agents Charades and Gersh. The film, which marks Barnard's fifth directorial feature, was developed with the support of BBC Film and co-financed by the BFI, TPC, Charades, and Curzon Film. Producers include Tracy O'Riordan of Moonspun Films, a long-time collaborator of Barnard's. Kino Lorber plans an extensive theatrical release in 2027, followed by digital, educational, and home video availability, ensuring a wide reach for this moving exploration of friendship and dreams.
This film serves as a powerful reminder of how our youthful aspirations often collide with the complex realities of adulthood. It highlights the resilience of human connection, yet also the fragility of dreams when confronted by life's inevitable challenges. It challenges viewers to reflect on their own journeys and the enduring impact of early friendships on shaping who we become.
