Lions Gate Films, the motion picture acquisition, production and distribution arm of Lions Gate Entertainment, has acquired the worldwide rights to RIZE, internationally renowned photographer / music video and commercial director, David LaChapelle’s much buzzed about feature film debut, it was announced today by Tom Ortenberg, President of Lions Gate Films Releasing and Peter Block, President of Acquisitions, Television and Co-Productions.
RIZE reveals a groundbreaking dance phenomenon, “Krumping,” that’s exploding on the streets of South Central, Los Angeles. Taking advantage of unprecedented access, this documentary film brings to first light a revolutionary form of artistic _expression borne from oppression. The aggressive and visually stunning dance modernizes moves indigenous to African tribal rituals and features mind-blowing, athletic movement never before seen in dance. RIZE grew out of LaChapelle’s acclaimed short by the same title which played in the 2004 Sundance Film Festival. The feature film made its world premiere on January 21st to a standing room only crowd and received a 10 minute standing ovation at the 2005 Sundance Film Festival.
“A dynamic combination of music and dance, RIZE brings a heretofore unknown culture to the screen,” said Tom Ortenberg, President of Lions Gate Films Releasing. “We were dazzled by its beauty and energy and look forward to introducing RIZE to audiences around the world.”
David LaChapelle stated, “I am thrilled. After much thought and consideration, Lions Gate is my first choice to distribute and be a home for my film RIZE. I would also like to thank all of the companies I met with for their understanding, enthusiasm and passion that they showed for RIZE.”
The deal was negotiated for Lions Gate by Block, John Hegeman, President of World Wide Marketing, Jason Constantine, Senior Vice President of Acquisitions and Ortenberg. For David LaChapelle, negotiations were handled by CAA, Irwin Rappaport and Fred Torres of Lucid Shoot Productions.
