MoreThan Films Acquires Distribution Rights for Serville Poblete's 'Sunburn'
MoreThan Films, a leading international sales agency, has officially secured the global distribution rights for 'Sunburn,' the highly anticipated new film from decorated director Serville Poblete. This acquisition precedes the film's world premiere at the Toronto International Film Festival, where it is slated to be a significant part of the Centrepiece program. The deal positions MoreThan Films to manage worldwide sales, while Gersh's Julien Levesque will oversee domestic distribution. This collaboration aims to bring Poblete's unique cinematic vision to audiences across the globe, reinforcing his status as an emerging talent in contemporary filmmaking.
'Sunburn' is an evocative narrative set within the high-rise community of St. James Town in Toronto. The story unfolds during a stifling city-wide blackout that cripples communication networks on one of the hottest days ever recorded in the city's history. Against this backdrop, a group of young individuals navigates their neighborhood, seeking respite from the oppressive heat as the fleeting essence of their youth slowly dissipates. The film features a talented ensemble cast, including Joshua Obra, Dashawn Blackwood, Arianna Shannon, and Milan Deng, each bringing depth to their roles within this compelling coming-of-age story.
Lidia Damatto, co-founder of MoreThan Films, expressed immense enthusiasm for their latest acquisition, highlighting Serville Poblete's distinct artistic voice. Damatto praised Poblete's unique aesthetic and his remarkable ability to transform an ordinary summer day into a profound exploration of a community often underrepresented in cinema. She emphasized that 'Sunburn' offers an authentic and vibrant collection of coming-of-age stories, skillfully capturing the energy, humor, and uncertainties inherent in adolescence with exceptional warmth and precision. The film, while deeply rooted in Toronto's St. James Town, transcends its local setting to address universal themes of friendship, identity, and belonging, making it a work expected to resonate widely with global audiences.
Serville Poblete, a Filipino-Canadian screenwriter and director from Toronto, has steadily built a reputation for his poignant storytelling. His short documentary, 'King's Court,' captivated audiences at Hot Docs 2025 and earned a nomination for a Canadian Screen Award in 2026. His most recent short, 'In the Morning Sun,' achieved critical acclaim by winning the Grand Jury Prize at SXSW 2026 and is currently navigating the festival circuit, positioning it for potential Academy Award consideration. Poblete's talent was further recognized through his selection for TIFF Next Wave at this year's festival, and 'Sunburn' itself has been featured in Variety's esteemed 'TIFF 2026: 20 International Titles to Track.' Poblete conveyed his excitement about the project, likening the filming experience to a summer camp due to the collaborative spirit of his team. He expressed his eagerness to partner with MoreThan Films and Gersh to share the film's warmth and message with the world, believing it offers something much-needed in current times.
The creative force behind 'Sunburn' is robust, with Serville Poblete both writing and directing the feature. The film boasts an impressive executive production team including Neil Champagne, Ryan Bobkin, Veronica Diaferia, and Sara Eolin, all of whom bring significant experience from notable projects. Christian Bielz, known for his work on 'This is Not a Test,' serves as the cinematographer, ensuring a visually compelling narrative. This confluence of talent promises a film that is not only artistically significant but also technically accomplished. The narrative's universal appeal, coupled with its specific cultural setting, positions 'Sunburn' as a notable entry in independent cinema, poised to capture the hearts and minds of viewers worldwide.
