Strand Releasing has acquired all U.S. rights to Celine Sciamma’s “Girlhood” the opening night film at the Director’s Fortnight at the Cannes Film Festival, Variety reported.

The film centers on a 16 year-old-girl, played by Karidja Toure, as she seeks her path in life amidst a “girl gang” in the northwest area of Paris.

Variety’s Peter Debruge called the film “engrossing” in his review.

“Girlhood” is Sciamma’s third feature following “Water Lillies” and “Tomboy.”

Strand plans to release the film early next year. Films Distribution closed several deals for major markets during Cannes.

The deal was done between Jon Gerrans of Strand Releasing and Nicolas Brigaud-Robert of Films Distribution.