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Sony Pictures Classics announced today that they have acquired all North American rights to Charlie Paul's directorial debut, For No Good Reason from Itch Film. Foreign sales are being handled by Independent Film Sales. Charlie Paul, who has been a director in advertising for years and is a former artist himself, spent 10 years making For No Good Reason. Produced by Itch Film's co-founder Lucy Paul, the intimate documentary portrait focuses on Ralph Steadman and features Johnny Depp observing Steadman's fascinating working process at his home studio.
Ralph Steadman is most frequently celebrated for his brilliant illustrations accompanying the writings of Hunter S Thompson, and their collaborations defined the Gonzo school of journalism that emerged to pick at the scabs of the American establishment during the turbulent eras of Vietnam and Nixon. Among his many achievements, Steadman has drawn political and satirical work informed by a deep social conscience, illustrated classics such as "Alice in Wonderland" and "Animal Farm," printed etchings on writers from Shakespeare to Burroughs, and published books on the lives of Sigmund Freud, Leonardo da Vinci and God. For No Good Reason presents Steadman as a driven artist with a voracious creative instinct.
The film also features a phenomenal and inventive soundtrack with collaborations from Slash, All American Rejects, Jason Mraz, Lynval Golding, Ed Harcourt, James Blake, Crystal Castles and more. Grammy nominated and two time Ivor Novello winner, Sacha Skarbek is the music director.
"Working with Ralph Steadman and using his art as the palette to construct this film, created the perfect canvass for me to make something personal, profound and very beautiful," says director Charlie Paul.
Producer Lucy Paul adds, "We are thrilled to be working with Sony Pictures Classics, whose love of the film and inventive approach to marketing will ensure our film finds the exposure and audience it deserves."
"Ralph Steadman is one of the most profound and innovative artists of our generation. We have always admired his work and in this wonderful film, Charlie Paul opens Steadman's studio and unique creative process to both his admirers and new fans in the process," states Sony Pictures Classics.
