Music Box Acquires Amy Goodman Documentary for North America

Music Box Films has acquired the North American distribution rights for the documentary film "Steal This Story, Please!," directed by investigative journalist Amy Goodman. The acquisition was announced on October 17, 2023, with Music Box Films planning a digital release across all major platforms for October 20, 2023. This acquisition follows a successful, albeit limited, theatrical run for the film earlier in the spring, during which it garnered significant attention and grossed approximately $1 million in ticket sales across the United States. Initially, the filmmakers opted for self-distribution, a strategy that allowed them to maintain direct control over the film's release and marketing. The documentary's subject matter, which delves into the challenges and importance of independent journalism in the contemporary media landscape, resonated with audiences and critics alike, contributing to its strong performance during its theatrical engagement. The film's title itself, "Steal This Story, Please!," is a provocative nod to Abbie Hoffman's 1971 counterculture manifesto, "Steal This Book," signaling a commitment to challenging established narratives and empowering individuals with information. Amy Goodman, a renowned journalist and the co-founder of Democracy Now!, a daily news program broadcast on public radio and television, brings her signature investigative rigor and commitment to social justice to this project. The film explores the vital role of independent media in holding power accountable and uncovering stories that might otherwise remain untold. The acquisition by Music Box Films, a distributor known for its commitment to independent and international cinema, suggests a strategic move to broaden the documentary's reach and accessibility to a wider audience in North America. The planned digital release on October 20, 2023, will make the film available to viewers on demand, a format that has become increasingly significant for documentary distribution. The film's success in its initial theatrical release, grossing close to $1 million, underscores the public's interest in investigative journalism and stories that challenge the status quo. This distribution deal is expected to amplify the film's message and further solidify its place within the independent documentary circuit. The home entertainment release is anticipated to include bonus features and supplementary materials that offer deeper insights into the film's production and the issues it addresses, further enhancing its value for viewers interested in the future of journalism and the fight for truth in an era of misinformation. The film's narrative is expected to highlight the struggles faced by independent journalists and news organizations in maintaining their integrity and financial viability amidst a rapidly evolving media ecosystem, where traditional business models are under pressure and the spread of disinformation is a growing concern. The acquisition by Music Box Films is a significant step in ensuring that "Steal This Story, Please!" can reach a broad audience and contribute to the ongoing conversation about the importance of a free and independent press.