Indie Rights Picks Up Iraq Immigrant Drama ‘The Refugee’ for AFM Launch (EXCLUSIVE)
Indie Rights has acquired worldwide sales rights to Johnny Greenlaw’s “The Refugee,” a drama exploring themes of immigration and the American dream. The company plans to introduce the film to buyers at the upcoming American Film Market (AFM).
Starring Demián Castro, Dina Najjar, Alanis Santiago, Chuck Fusca, Rasheda Isaac, Erin Cline, Kelly Karavites, Andy Gion and Bryan Bachman, “The Refugee” tells the story of Eva, an Iraqi refugee searching for the U.S. soldier who saved her life while discovering her own path in America. The narrative follows Eva’s journey from war-torn Iraq to Florida, where she pursues her artistic aspirations and prepares for her citizenship exam.
More from Variety
The film opens during the Iraq War, with Eva’s family falling victim to violence just as Allied Forces arrive. A U.S. soldier named Frank King rescues the young Eva, setting her on a path that leads to asylum in the United States. Years later, Eva moves to pursue a career in art while simultaneously searching for King, the man who saved her.
Greenlaw, who previously directed “Mommy’s Box,” helmed the project from his own script. Alexandra Balda, Michael W. Gray, Stephen Krahel, and Joseph O’Connor produced the film, with Kelly Karavites serving as executive producer.
“The Refugee” has secured several accolades on the festival circuit. It won best picture and most inspirational film at the 2024 Manhattan Film Festival. The film also won the grand jury award for best picture at the 2024 Orlando International Film Festival. Dina Najjar’s performance as Eva earned her the best actress award at the 2024 Golden Door International Film Festival.
Best of Variety
Sign up for Variety's Newsletter. For the latest news, follow us on Facebook, Twitter, and Instagram.
Solve the daily Crossword
