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Danny Boyle’s new film Ink, a dramatized look at the rise of The Sun tabloid and the power players behind it, is already making waves ahead of Venice. Netflix moved fast to secure key regional rights, and Studiocanal is steering the film’s global festival push. The move signals high expectations for a film that revisits a pivotal moment in British media history.
Netflix lands key regional rights for Boyle’s period drama
Streaming giant Netflix has secured the North American and Latin American rights to Ink. Sources close to the deal confirmed the agreement to industry outlets. Studiocanal handled production and will manage many other international markets.
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- Netflix: North America and Latin America
- Studiocanal: Producer and international distributor for multiple territories
It is notable when Netflix does not take global rights. Their selective buy suggests they see strong commercial and awards potential in the film.
Inside the story: The Sun, Larry Lamb and Rupert Murdoch
Ink is a 1960s-set drama that explores how editor Larry Lamb and media magnate Rupert Murdoch remade the British tabloid landscape.
The film traces the rise of The Sun as a cultural and controversial force in England. It focuses on editorial tactics, sensational headlines, and the shifting business calculus that shaped tabloid journalism.
Lead cast and creative pedigree
- Jack O’Connell
- Guy Pearce
- Claire Foy
James Graham, the Olivier Award-winning playwright, adapted his 2017 stage play for the screen. His script reimagines the behind-the-scenes power struggles that birthed a national institution.
Venice Film Festival premiere and screening details
Ink will open the Venice Film Festival as the opening night selection at the Biennale. The film is set to screen in competition on September 2.
- Venice dates: Festival runs September 2–12
- Opening night: Ink screens September 2 in competition
This marks the first time Danny Boyle has taken a film to Venice. The premiere arrives ahead of the festival’s full lineup announcement, expected next week.
Production credits and creative team
Danny Boyle not only directed but also served as a producer. He partnered with several established names to bring the story to screen.
- Producers: Danny Boyle, Tracey Seaward, Tessa Ross, Michael Ellenberg (Media Res)
- Executive producers for Studiocanal: Anna Marsh, Ron Halpern, Joe Naftalin
- Additional EPs: Tonia Davis, Zoë Edwards, James Graham, Sudie Smyth
- Production companies: Studiocanal, Media Res, House Productions
Boyle reunites with producer Tessa Ross for the first time since their collaboration on the Best Picture winner Slumdog Millionaire.
Festival strategy and recent festival activity by Netflix
Industry watchers expect Netflix will continue to buy festival titles as the autumn circuit opens. The streamer has a recent track record of acquiring films out of Venice.
Last year Netflix picked up the documentary Cover-Up by Laura Poitras and Mark Obenhaus from Venice. That deal is part of a broader strategy of acquiring high-profile festival titles ahead of awards season.
Dealmakers and distribution handling
The rights transaction was negotiated by WME Independent and Studiocanal. Their role covered the sale of regional windows while Studiocanal retains distribution for multiple overseas markets.
What to watch next: As the Venice lineup becomes public, expect further moves from streamers and distributors vying for premieres and acquisition rights.
