Streaming platform MUBI has acquired distribution rights for the upcoming film Coward, directed by acclaimed Belgian filmmaker Lukas Dhont. The deal covers several key international markets, including the United Kingdom, Germany, Australia, New Zealand, and regions across Latin America, along with additional territories such as Ireland, Italy, Spain, Austria, and Turkey.
The film is set to make its world debut at the prestigious Cannes Film Festival later this month, where it will compete among top global entries. Sales for the project are being handled by The Match Factory, with release plans expected to be revealed soon.
Coward marks Dhont’s latest project following his widely praised and Oscar-nominated film Close. This new feature shifts to a historical backdrop, unfolding during World War I. The story follows two young soldiers, portrayed by Emmanuel Macchia and Valentin Campagne, who form an unlikely bond on the battlefield. In an attempt to cope with the harsh realities of war, the pair turn to creativity by staging a theatre performance amidst the chaos.
The film reunites Dhont with his frequent collaborator Angelo Tijssens, who co-wrote the screenplay, as well as producer Michiel Dhont. Production is a collaborative effort involving multiple European companies, highlighting the international scale of the project.
MUBI’s continued investment in auteur-driven cinema is further reflected in its recent acquisitions. The platform has also picked up rights to Hope, a science-fiction action thriller by South Korean director Na Hong-jin. Additionally, MUBI is involved as a producer in several high-profile films premiering at Cannes, including projects by Paweł Pawlikowski and Jane Schoenbrun.
With strong festival buzz and an acclaimed creative team behind it, Coward is shaping up to be one of the most anticipated international releases of the year.