Magnolia Pictures has secured the U.S. distribution rights for Gregg Araki’s provocative film, I Want Your Sex, featuring performances by Olivia Wilde and Cooper Hoffman. This acquisition marks a significant step for Magnolia as it aims to launch a robust theatrical campaign for the film, slated for release in 2026. The excitement surrounding I Want Your Sex highlights both Araki’s established reputation in the New Queer Cinema movement and the compelling narrative that stars Wilde and Hoffman.
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A Competitive Deal for a Groundbreaking Director
Magnolia prevailed in a competitive bid, closing the deal at a seven-figure price. This acquisition represents the 12th film from Araki, known for his boundary-pushing works that explore sexuality and identity. Magnolia co-CEOs Eamonn Bowles and Dori Begley expressed their enthusiasm for the project: “I Want Your Sex is a wild romp that represents all the reasons we love going to the movies. As huge fans of Gregg Araki, we’re thrilled to unleash his widest theatrical release yet and Olivia Wilde and Cooper Hoffman’s insanely great performances on the masses.”
Film Synopsis and Themes
I Want Your Sex centers on Erika Tracy, played by Wilde, an artist who embarks on a daring relationship with Elliot (Hoffman). The film’s provocative premise unfolds as Erika breaks traditional workplace boundaries by hiring Elliot not just as her assistant but also as her sexual partner. This sets the stage for a tumultuous exploration of desire, leading Elliot to grapple with his own values and relationships, including those with his conventional girlfriend and a repressed roommate. Magnolia summarizes it effectively: “Their sexually charged relationship makes him question his own desires, boundaries, and relationships.”
Expanding the Cast
The film features a vibrant ensemble cast, including Mason Gooding, Johnny Knoxville, Margaret Cho, Roxane Mesquida, and Daveed Diggs. After showcasing his work at numerous festivals, Araki returned to Sundance with I Want Your Sex in what is touted to be an unforgettable experience in Utah.
Directors’ Vision and Future Endeavors
In his own words, Araki expressed gratitude for the film’s reception: “I am over the moon and so grateful for the incredible reception at Sundance and Magnolia’s unadulterated passion for I Want Your Sex. This has been a pure labor of love from day one.” The synergy between the team at Magnolia and Araki suggests a promising future for I Want Your Sex, aiming to engage and spark discussions among audiences nationwide.
Produced by Black Bear and Desperate Pictures, I Want Your Sex features a screenplay co-written by Araki and Karley Sciortino. The film’s producer credits also extend to several notable figures in the industry. With Magnolia leading the charge in U.S. distribution, under the direction of John Von Thaden and Miranda Hill, the path is set for I Want Your Sex to captivate audiences when it debuts.