International sales agency Cappu Films has arrived at the Tokyo International Film Festival’s prestigious TIFFCOM market with a dynamic slate, highlighted by a gritty French martial arts action film and a charming American independent romance. The sales outfit has already secured a significant early win, closing a territorial deal for one of its key titles while actively introducing both projects to prospective global buyers navigating the bustling Asian content market.
In the midst of the multi-day entertainment trade event, Cappu Films successfully negotiated a distribution agreement for the hard-hitting French action feature "Red Bird." The film has been officially licensed to Kinologistika LLC, covering the crucial CIS (Commonwealth of Independent States) region, which encompasses Russia alongside several former Soviet states. Building on that momentum, the company has also expanded its roster by officially taking on international sales duties for the American indie romance "Step Back, Doors Closing," setting the stage for expanded global distribution outreach.
"Red Bird" stands out in the contemporary action landscape due to its authentic physical choreography and the specialized backgrounds of its creative team. The feature is co-directed by Alexandre Laugier, Thomas Habibes, and Houssam Adili, a trio of filmmakers who bring extensive, hands-on professional expertise in stunt work and martial arts to the production. In addition to sharing directorial duties, Habibes and Adili step directly in front of the camera to anchor the narrative in the lead roles, supported by a seasoned cast that features Eric Delcourt, Jean-Louis Tribes, and Jean-Marie Paris.
The plot of "Red Bird" centers on a young man named Max, whose father lived a secretive double life operating covertly under the tactical moniker "Red Bird." When the elder man suddenly passes away under mysterious and unexplained circumstances, Max refuses to let the matter rest. Joined by his trusted friend Sam, he embarks on an investigation to uncover the unvarnished truth about his father’s past. This quest for answers quickly spirals out of control, pulling the two friends deep into the heart of a perilous and complex conspiracy.
Independently financed and shot entirely on location against the sun-drenched, rugged backdrop of Marseille, "Red Bird" makes no apologies for prioritizing raw, visceral physical action. The production was spearheaded by SOUTHfilms, which previously brought the adrenaline-fueled project to domestic audiences with a theatrical release across France this past January. For international sales executives, the transition from local cinematic success to global markets is an exciting next step.
Janice Woo of Cappu Films spoke enthusiastically about the project’s trajectory following the CIS agreement. "‘Red Bird’ brings the raw energy of its filmmakers and stunt team directly to the screen," Woo said. "We’re pleased to have secured a CIS deal and look forward to introducing the film to more distributors in Tokyo."
Shifting genres completely, the second major title on Cappu Films’ active sales slate offers a contemporary look at modern courtship. "Step Back, Doors Closing" is an intimate American independent romance written and directed by Carter Ward. Ward also served as a producer on the film alongside fellow producers Jane Hollon and Kathryn Crabtree. The romantic drama is propelled by the central performances of lead actors Carmen Berkeley and Reilly Walters.
The narrative follows Ryan and Julisa, two ordinary strangers whose lives intersect unexpectedly when they cross paths on a Washington, D.C. Metro train. Over the course of an eventful 24-hour period, the pair roams through the streets and transit systems of the nation’s capital. As they navigate the city together, they gradually drop their guards, opening up to one another about their deepest aspirations, vulnerabilities, and fears, allowing an authentic romance to take root. The supporting ensemble features strong performances from Michelle Macedo, Ashley Romans, and Mershad Torabi.
"Step Back, Doors Closing" first caught the attention of the independent film community when it held its premiere at the Dances With Films festival in Los Angeles in 2024. Following its festival circuit run, the romantic feature secured domestic distribution via Freestyle Digital Media, which rolled out the film across the United States, Canada, and the Caribbean. With its North American footprint established, Cappu Films is now tasked with finding the right exhibition and distribution partners to introduce the metropolitan romance to audiences in remaining international territories.
For the filmmakers behind the project, the partnership with an international sales agency marks a major milestone in bringing their localized vision to a worldwide audience. Carter Ward of Arden Pictures expressed deep gratitude regarding the collaboration with Cappu Films and the upcoming international push at TIFFCOM.
"I could not be more proud or excited to partner with Cappu Films. Their support means the world not only to myself, but our entire cast and crew," Ward said. "We can’t wait for international audiences to see the version of Washington, D.C. we know and love. One where meet-cutes are still possible, and single weekends can change the trajectory of our lives forever."
As the TIFFCOM market continues to unfold alongside the Tokyo International Film Festival, Cappu Films remains focused on bridging independent cinema with global audiences. Operating as a versatile sales entity, the company routinely collaborates with independent filmmakers on projects spanning both traditional arthouse sensibilities and high-concept commercial genres. Its comprehensive international library boasts a diverse array of content, ranging widely from high-octane action, horror, and fantasy to distinct arthouse fare, serialized television programming, and beloved classic titles hailing from the golden era of Hong Kong cinema. With ongoing negotiations in Tokyo, both "Red Bird" and "Step Back, Doors Closing" look poised to expand their international reach in the months ahead.
