Angelina Jolie’s ‘Couture’ Lands U.K. and Ireland Rights

Signature Entertainment has secured the U.K. and Ireland distribution rights for Angelina Jolie Couture Rights in the film “Couture” from HanWay Films. This acquisition comes ahead of the film’s U.K. premiere scheduled at the Glasgow Film Festival on February 26. The Hollywood Reporter has released an exclusive image from the film, which was both written and directed by Alice Winocour, known for her previous work on “Proxima.”

The Story Behind “Couture” and Its Central Characters

Set against the intense backdrop of Paris Fashion Week, “Couture” explores the interconnected lives of three women in Paris. Maxine, played by Angelina Jolie, is an American filmmaker facing a life-altering medical diagnosis, which brings her into an unexpected relationship with a familiar collaborator, portrayed by Louis Garrel. Ada, depicted by Anyier Anei, is an emerging model fleeing the constraints of her past in South Sudan. Meanwhile, Angèle, played by Ella Rumpf, works as a makeup artist behind the scenes of high-profile fashion shows.

Through their intersecting journeys, the film touches on the quiet strength beneath their public personas and highlights the unspoken bonds these women share across different cultures and careers. A synopsis explains,

“the film reveals the quiet resilience beneath the surface of public performance and honors the unspoken solidarity shared among these women across professions, cultures, and continents.”

Festival Screenings and Filmmaker’s Vision

“Couture” had its world premiere at the Toronto International Film Festival last year before making its European debut at the San Sebastian Film Festival. Speaking at San Sebastian, Winocour emphasized the film’s deeper themes beyond fashion, stating,

“It’s not a film about fashion. I wanted to show solidarity between women.”

Production Details and Industry Collaborations

The project is produced by Charles Gillibert of CG Cinéma, alongside Zhang Xin and William Horberg from Closer Media, with Angelina Jolie also serving as a producer. Bob Xu serves as executive producer. The film is a co-production with France 3 Cinéma and has received financial support from La Région Île-de-France, Canal+, Ciné+ OCS, France Télévisions, and Chanel. This robust backing highlights strong industry confidence in the film’s artistic and cultural value.

Distribution Deal Insights and Expectations

The U.K. and Ireland rights deal was finalized through negotiations between Signature Entertainment’s Chief Commercial Officer Elizabeth Williams and HanWay Films Head of Sales Nicole Mackey. Williams expressed enthusiasm about the acquisition, saying,

“We are delighted to be bringing Couture to U.K. and Irish audiences and to be partnering with HanWay once again.”

She added,

“We were instantly struck by Alice Winocour’s distinctive and commanding vision and the exceptional performances throughout, particularly anchored by Angelina Jolie’s powerful portrayal at the film’s centre.”

Anticipated Impact and Next Steps

As “Couture” prepares for its Glasgow Film Festival debut, the film promises to resonate with audiences through its exploration of women’s resilience and interconnected experiences amid the high-pressure world of fashion. With its strong cast and meaningful narrative, the film is poised to attract attention both critically and commercially in the U.K. and Ireland, contributing to ongoing discussions about women’s solidarity across different cultures and professions.