By MICHAEL GINGOLD

The film has won Best Feature/Picture prizes at Screamfest and San Sebastián, among many other festival awards.

Film Movement has announced its acquisition of North American rights to THE WAIT (LA ESPERA), with tentative plans for a digital and cable release this fall. Written and directed by Spanish filmmaker F. Javier Gutiérrez (BEFORE THE FALL), it stars Victor Clavijo, Ruth Diaz, Manuel Moron and Pedro Casablanc. The synopsis: “Deep in the Andalusian countryside, Eladio [Clavijo] works as the groundskeeper of a hunting estate owned by the powerful Don Francisco. After taking a bribe from a veteran hunter, Eladio’s normal life falls apart, plunging him into the depths of guilt, hatred and revenge.”

“I’m truly excited to share with American audiences this unsettling story of guilt, loss, revenge, and class divides,” Gutiérrez says. “Deeply human and rich with symbolism and Biblical references, THE WAIT is my most personal and uncompromising film to date. I extend my heartfelt thanks to Film Movement for making this possible and for their unwavering support and dedication to filmmakers and film lovers around the world.”

“We’re excited to be working with director F. Javier Gutierrez on his latest film,” says Film Movement president Michael Rosenberg. “Full of excellent craftsmanship and a haunting performance by Victor Clavijo, THE WAIT is a haunting thriller we’re sure audiences will be drawn to.”