Producer David Kaplan shared insights into the challenges and triumphs of making Beth de Araújo’s Sundance-winning film 'Josephine' during a fireside chat at the European Film Market in Berlin. The film, which secured a U.S. distribution deal with Sumerian Pictures, explores a family's response to a child's trauma. Kaplan also updated on his company's development of an 'It Follows' sequel.
David Kaplan, founder of Kaplan Morrison alongside Andrew Morrison three years ago, spoke at a Variety-moderated fireside chat hosted by the European Film Market on Sunday afternoon in Berlin. The New York-based producer detailed the journey of 'Josephine,' directed by Beth de Araújo, which won double prizes at Sundance and is competing at the Berlinale.
The U.S. rights to 'Josephine' were sold to Sumerian Pictures late the previous night for a mid-to-high seven-figure sum, as confirmed by WME Independent and CAA Media Finance. Budgeted at $6 million, the film completed financing just six days into principal photography. Kaplan emphasized the importance of returning value to investors: “It was very important to Beth always that our investors made their money back if they could. They took tremendous risk. It’s important to me as a producer in the same way. Why would anyone want to work with you again if you don’t take care of them in that way, particularly in success?”
Sumerian committed to significant screen time and P&A support, positioning 'Josephine' as their flagship release. Kaplan, who joined the project in its final three years of a 12-year development, noted the sacrifices involved: “Like everybody else on the film, everybody sacrificed for this film. That’s how you make a film with movie stars and a great director and great crew in an expensive city for that amount. It takes a village of people who believe.”
Inspired by de Araújo’s childhood experiences, the story follows an 8-year-old girl who witnesses a rape in Golden Gate Park, with Channing Tatum and Gemma Chan as her parents navigating the aftermath and justice pursuit. Financing was tough, with 99% of potential backers declining due to the dark theme, commercial concerns, and perceived bias against films focused on women and assault survivors. Tatum and Chan, also producers, aided fundraising; Tatum actively pitched investors.
Young lead Mason Lily Reeves was cast seven weeks before shooting after de Araújo spotted her at a San Francisco farmers’ market. The production shot on location in the city to capture its texture. Equity partners included Spark Features, Kinematics, and Yintai Entertainment.
Kaplan’s slate includes the 'It Follows' sequel, acquired by Neon with U.S. and international partners, aiming to shoot soon. His company also produced 'The Brutalist' and 'The Testament of Ann Lee,' and is in post on 'Triumph of the Will,' a WWII-era film starring Shira Haas.