Sophie Brooks’ debut feature has found a home. FilmRise has acquired exclusive North American distribution rights to “The Boy Downstairs,” a press release has announced. “Girls’” Zosia Mamet toplines the romantic comedy, which made its world premiere at this year’s Tribeca Film Festival. A theatrical release is being planned for early 2018.
“The Boy Downstairs” centers on Diana (Mamet), an aspiring writer who returns to New York City after living abroad. She’s thrilled to find the Brooklyn apartment of her dreams, but her feelings about her new home change when she discovers that her ex-boyfriend (Matthew Shear, “Mistress America”) lives in the apartment downstairs. Still, Diana is determined to make her new digs work, and vows to keep things cordial with her ex, “but as the story progresses and old wounds are reopened, she is forced to confront the true nature of her feelings,” the film’s official synopsis hints.
Deirdre O’Connell (“The Path”) and Diana Irvine (“The Sphere and the Labyrinth”) co-star.
Brooks told us that she’d like for people who see the movie to feel “inspired to be a little braver in love and life. I hope that they relate to the complicated feelings that can accompany first love,” she explained.
When asked for advice for other female filmmakers, the writer-director said “I find that as a woman in film — and in life — you sometimes have to voice your opinion multiple times to get your point across. So do that. Keep voicing your opinion until it’s really heard,” she emphasized. “And don’t give up on what’s truly important to you and your story. Also, hire nice and respectful people.”
“We are thrilled to share Sophie Brooks’ charming feature debut with the world,” commented Danny Fisher, CEO of FilmRise. “‘The Boy Downstairs’ is a fresh, sincere comedy that we believe audiences everywhere will enjoy.”
Brooks added, “I am beyond excited to team up with FilmRise.” ‘The Boy Downstairs’ was an incredibly special experience for me and I cannot wait for audiences to see it next year.”
Mamet is best known for playing Shoshanna Shapiro on Lena Dunham’s “Girls.” The HBO series’ sixth — and final — season concluded in April. Mamet’s other credits include “Wiener-Dog,” “Mad Men,” and “United States of Tara.”
