Vertical is thrilled to announce its acquisition of the North American distribution rights for the much-anticipated period drama, “Jeanne du Barry.” This historical film, based on real events, stars Maïwenn and Johnny Depp in the lead roles, taking us through a peasant woman’s remarkable ascent in the Court of King Louis XV.
The movie captured the hearts of viewers at its world premiere, opening the 76th Cannes Film Festival with a standing ovation that lasted an impressive seven minutes. The critically acclaimed film, co-written, directed, and produced by multi-talented Maïwenn, also boasts a talented cast of Benjamin Lavernhe, Pierre Richard, Melvil Poupaud, and Pascal Greggory.
“Jeanne du Barry” was released in France on May 17th, coinciding with the festival world premiere, and saw a tremendous box-office success.
The film raked in $2.56 million (US) in its first week, setting a record as the decade’s best start for a Cannes Opener.
The film chronicles the life of Jeanne Vaubernier (Maïwenn), a working-class woman resolute in her ambition to rise through the societal ranks, leveraging her charms to escape a life of poverty. Her journey intertwines with that of King Louis XV (Depp) after her lover, Comte du Barry (Poupaud), arranges a meeting through the influential Duke of Richelieu (Richard). The king falls head over heels for Jeanne, instigating a scandal as the court struggles to accept a woman of humble origins into their elitist world.
The film was penned by Teddy Lussi-Modeste and Nicolas Livecchi, produced by Pascal Caucheteux and Grégoire Sorlat, and backed by a team of notable production companies. The talented team behind the scenes includes cinematographer Laurent Dailland, editor Laure Gardette, production designer Angelo Zamparutti, costume designer Jürgen Doering, and composer Stephen Warbeck.
Vertical Partner Peter Jarowey shared his enthusiasm, “Jeanne du Barry was undeniably the talk of Cannes this year, and we are ecstatic to secure the domestic rights to Maïwenn’s visually stunning piece of cinematic art that marks Johnny Depp’s return to the big screen. Given Depp’s substantial fan base, we anticipate this film could attract a broader audience, including those who don’t typically gravitate towards foreign films.”
Peter Jarowey and Senior Vice President of Acquisitions, Tony Piantedosi, negotiated the deal representing Vertical. CAA Media Finance and Goodfellas handled the negotiations on behalf of the filmmakers.