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Maude Apatow’s feature directing debut has found a new home. After a rocky distribution moment, Sony Pictures Classics will release Poetic License theatrically in 2027, bringing the TIFF-acclaimed drama to audiences worldwide.
Sony Pictures Classics picks up worldwide rights and sets 2027 release
Sony Pictures Classics secured global distribution after the film was pulled back to the market. The studio, known for championing artful independent pictures, negotiated to take the film into its slate and plans a release next year. Sony Pictures Classics will handle marketing and theatrical rollout.
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Toronto reception: critics praised the film’s voice
Poetic License premiered at the Toronto International Film Festival to strong reviews. Critics celebrated Maude Apatow’s confident direction and the film’s mix of humor and heart.
The story centers on Liz, a former therapist played by Leslie Mann, who moves to a new town as empty nesters. Her attempt to find quiet is upended when two college seniors, Sam and Ari, vie for her attention. Those relationships force Liz to question the life she has and the life she might still want.
Key players on screen and behind the camera
The film blends seasoned talent with rising stars. Performances and creative credits include:
- Leslie Mann as Liz.
- Cooper Hoffman as Sam.
- Andrew Barth Feldman as Ari.
- Script by Raffi Donatich.
- Directed by Maude Apatow in her feature debut.
Production and executive team
- Producers: Judd Apatow, Josh Church, Benjamin Hung (August Night), Thalia Daniel, Maude Apatow, Olivia Rosenbloom, Will Greenfield.
- Executive producers: Jamal Daniel, Michelle Upton, Renee Witt, Harrison Kreiss, Jay Cassidy, David Gendron, Ali Jazayeri, Stefan Klink.
Why the film came back to market
The original U.S. buyer, Row K Entertainment, faced financial turmoil earlier this year. Reports indicated the young company struggled with unpaid bills and staff departures. That instability prompted the film’s sales team to retake the project and seek a new distributor.
WME Independent, representing the film’s sales, relaunched offers. Multiple parties showed interest before Sony Pictures Classics reached an agreement for worldwide rights.
What Apatow and SPC said about the partnership
Maude Apatow described the deal as deeply meaningful. She said she grew up admiring Sony Pictures Classics releases and that working with the studio team was a personal milestone.
SPC executives praised the film’s unique tone and performances. They called it a debut full of promise and noted standout work from Mann, Hoffman, and Feldman. The studio said it is eager to share the film with audiences in 2027.
What audiences can expect at the box office
Poetic License balances comedy with emotional stakes. The festival buzz highlights intimate storytelling and strong ensemble chemistry.
- Festival acclaim suggests solid arthouse appeal.
- Star power and positive reviews could broaden its reach.
- SPC’s distribution experience positions the film for a careful theatrical run.
