May 19, 2013 - 16:04 AMT
Weinstein’s RADiUS nabs cult helmer’s "Blue Ruin" at Cannes

The Weinstein Company's boutique label RADiUS has acquired North American rights to "Blue Ruin" which premiered in the Cannes Festival's Director's Fortnight, TheWrap said.

Written and directed by Jeremy Saulnier, whose first feature "Murder Party" was a cult hit, "Blue Ruin" tells the story of a man who finds his quiet life upended by unwelcome news and subsequently sets off for his childhood home to carry out an act of revenge. Proving an improbable assassin, he winds up in a brutal fight to protect his estranged family.

The film was produced by Anish Savjani, Richard Peete and Vincent Savino. RADiUS will release the film theatrically this fall, according to the company.

Co-presidents Tom Quinn and Jason Janego said in a news release: "'Blue Ruin' is a masterpiece and a future cult classic. It is one of the most exceptional discoveries of the last few years thanks to Jeremy's deft hand. Having worked with him on 'Murder Party,' we couldn't be more excited for our second collaboration."

Saulnier goes on to say: "Tom and I go way back when he championed my first film 'Murder Party.' I'm thrilled that my new film has found a home with him. RADiUS is absolutely the perfect fit for 'Blue Ruin.'"

This is The Weinstein Company's second acquisition at the festival, after buying "Philomena" for $6 million.