Indie Film “Yes” Secures North American Release with Kino Lorber
IndieWire is thrilled to announce an exclusive development in the world of independent cinema. Kino Lorber, a leading figure in the distribution of provocative films, has acquired the North American rights to “Yes,” a film by Israeli director Nadav Lapid. The film made waves at its Cannes premiere for its audacious content, with Lapid himself acknowledging its potential to stir controversy. Kino Lorber plans a comprehensive release, including theatrical showings in early 2026, followed by digital, educational, and home video formats.
Work revolution: Google reveals 90% of professionals are already using AI daily – are you one of them?
Gigantic 400-meter structures discovered beneath Antarctic ice spark heated debate among scientists worldwide
This marks the fourth collaboration between Lapid and Kino Lorber, following successful releases like “The Kindergarten Teacher,” “Synonyms” (which won the Golden Bear at Berlinale), and “Ahed’s Knee,” a Cannes Jury Prize winner. “Yes” promises to continue this trend, bringing Lapid’s unique vision to North American audiences once more.
A Closer Look at “Yes”
“Yes” is set in the turbulent period following October 7 in Israel, a backdrop that serves as a canvas for its biting satire. The storyline follows Y., a jazz musician, and his wife Yasmine, a dancer, as they navigate a society in flux, agreeing to every demand made of them. Their journey leads Y. to a significant national task—composing a new, ruthless national anthem. This role thrusts them deeper into the chaotic whirlpool of their country’s elite, testing their limits in every aspect.
The film features a talented cast including Ariel Bronz, Efrat Dor, Naama Preis, and Alexey Serebryakov. It has been showcased at multiple prestigious festivals including Karlovy Vary, Munich, and Jerusalem.
Lapid’s Vision and the Film’s Journey
Despite its challenging subject matter, “Yes” has been recognized for its artistic merit and bold narrative, earning nominations for seven Ophir Awards, Israel’s equivalent of the Oscars. These include nods for Best Actor, Best Supporting Actress, Best Director, and Best Picture. The film’s selection as one of five to potentially represent Israel at the 98th Academy Awards underscores its impact.
In discussions about the film, particularly its placement outside the main competition at Cannes, Lapid expressed a mix of resignation and defiance. He suggested that the film’s exclusion might be due to its unsettling nature, a sentiment he acknowledges could measure the “cowardice and courage” of its spectators and critics alike.
Statements from the Distributor
Richard Lorber, Chairman and CEO of Kino Lorber, expressed his enthusiasm for bringing another Lapid film to North American screens. He praised “Yes” for its intense, emotional exploration of significant political and human dilemmas, highlighting Lapid’s fearless filmmaking approach.
Lapid himself described “Yes” as his most demanding project to date. He appreciates Kino Lorber’s bravery in taking on the film, emphasizing the importance of its North American release as a powerful cultural event. He believes “Yes” offers a crucial perspective on resistance and submission in contemporary society.
The acquisition deal was negotiated by Kino Lorber’s VP of Acquisitions, Karoliina Dwyer, and Alice Lesort from Films du Losange, ensuring that Lapid’s vision will reach a broad audience eager for challenging, innovative cinema.
A YouTuber bought a Bugatti on TEMU expecting luxury… but the unboxing went terribly wrong
Colonizing Mars is no longer a dream: Elon Musk unveils a historic deadline that will change everything
With its daring narrative and critical acclaim, “Yes” is poised to be a significant cinematic event, inviting viewers to explore the depth of its satire and the complexities of its portrayal of Israeli society.
Similar Posts
- Harris Dickinson Shines in Directorial Debut ‘Urchin’: Frank Dillane Rises to Stardom
- Oscar Hopeful ‘Palestine 36’ Debuts at TIFF: Secures U.S. Distribution!
- The Forge Acquires Czech Blockbuster ‘Waves’: See What’s Making Waves in Film Distribution!
- Power Outage Strikes Cannes Film Festival: Event Disrupted
- Discover 2025’s Must-See Films: Other Israel Film Festival Showcases Israeli and Palestinian Talent
Claude Merritt explores the world of entertainment with a keen eye. From music to film, TV series, and popular culture, he covers celebrity news and American cultural trends with a lively and critical approach.
