Stacy Martin is at the center of a major cinematic development as she stars in “Islands,” Jan-Ole Gerster’s gripping thriller, which has secured a wave of global distribution deals following its acclaimed debut at the Berlinale earlier this year. In recent weeks, Protagonist Pictures and augenschein Sales confirmed critical distribution agreements across key territories, including the U.K., France, and the United States, setting the stage for a broad international release throughout 2025.
“Islands” features an impressive ensemble, with Stacy Martin joining Sam Riley and Jack Farthing to bring the intense story to life. The film had already been acquired by Greenwich Entertainment for U.S. audiences. Latest deals now extend rights to BFI Distribution for the U.K. and Ireland, Jour2Fête for France, and additional distributors spanning Benelux, Greece and Cyprus, Portugal, several Balkan countries, Romania, the Baltics, and Ukraine. Furthermore, Leonine Studios, a co-producer, is preparing for a German release in May 2025, while Penny Black secured airline rights, ensuring that Stacy Martin’s performance in “Islands” will reach viewers in a variety of formats worldwide.
Jan-Ole Gerster’s English-language debut is built on a screenplay he co-wrote with Blaz Kutin and Lawrie Doran, produced by Maximilian Leo and Jonas Katzenstein for augenschein Filmproduktion. Shot on the scenic Canary Islands, “Islands” follows the story of Tom, a tennis coach played by Sam Riley, whose routine is disrupted when he meets a mysterious family at a luxury hotel. Stacy Martin stars as Anne, whose presence, along with her husband Dave and son Anton, prompts intrigue and growing suspense. As Tom becomes more involved with Anne, his suspicion that they have met before intensifies, culminating in a night when Dave goes missing and the authorities turn their eyes upon Tom and Anne.
International industry leaders have praised both the film and its cast.
said Sarah Lebutsch, acting senior vice president of sales at Protagonist Pictures.
Recognition for Stacy Martin and her co-stars arrived swiftly. “Islands” received four nominations at the renowned Lola Awards, Germany’s answer to the Oscars, including nods for Best Picture and Best Leading Actor. Reviews have highlighted Martin’s lead role as critical to the film’s hypnotic quality, with particular praise from Berlinale critics.
With widespread international deals in place and anticipation building ahead of key releases in 2025, Stacy Martin’s performance in “Islands” positions the thriller as both a critical and distribution success. The film’s expanding reach enhances not only Martin’s profile but also marks a significant moment for contemporary European cinema, as audiences across the globe await the chance to experience this suspenseful story.
