Mubi Secures North American Rights to Lukas Dhont’s WWI Drama ‘Coward’
Global streaming platform and distributor Mubi has solidified its position at this year’s Cannes Film Festival by acquiring the North American rights to Lukas Dhont’s latest film, Coward. This strategic move follows the company’s earlier acquisition of the film’s rights for multiple international territories, including the U.K., Ireland, Germany, Austria, Italy, Spain, Turkey, Latin America, Australia, and New Zealand.
Expanding the Mubi Portfolio
The acquisition of Coward marks a significant addition to Mubi’s slate of festival-circuit films. The company has previously demonstrated success in identifying and distributing high-profile arthouse cinema. Notably, Mubi handled the distribution for Dhont’s 2022 film Close, which earned an Oscar nomination for best international feature. By securing Coward, Mubi continues its commitment to backing emerging and established filmmakers whose works often define the current landscape of global cinema.
A Story of Resilience and Romance
Set against the backdrop of World War I, Coward explores themes of intimacy, and survival. The narrative centers on Pierre, a soldier arriving at the front with a desire to prove himself, and Francis, a character who organizes theatre performances to bolster the morale of his fellow soldiers. As the realities of war intensify, the film follows the growing bond between the two men as they seek fleeting moments of escape from the surrounding brutality.
The film features newcomer Emmanuel Macchia in the role of Pierre, alongside Valentin Campagne as Francis. The production reunites director Lukas Dhont with his long-time collaborators, including co-writer Angelo Tijssens and producer Michiel Dhont. The project is a collaborative effort involving several production houses, including Reunion, Lumen, Topkapi Films, and Versus, with additional co-production support from entities such as France 2 Cinéma, VTM, and RTBF.
Key Takeaways
- Strategic Acquisition: Mubi now holds the rights for Coward across North America and a wide range of international territories, making it a cornerstone of their upcoming release slate.
- Director Collaboration: Coward is the latest project from Lukas Dhont, reuniting the creative team behind the acclaimed film Close.
- Festival Presence: The film is a major acquisition for Mubi at the Cannes Film Festival, highlighting the platform’s focus on premiering and distributing world-class independent cinema.
Looking Ahead
As Mubi continues to expand its reach as both a streaming platform and a theatrical distributor, its investment in Coward underscores the company’s strategy of acquiring high-caliber films that resonate with global audiences. With international sales handled by The Match Factory and regional distribution already established in markets like Benelux and France, the film is poised for a significant release following its festival debut.
Note: This article reflects the current acquisition status as of May 23, 2026. For more updates on Mubi’s catalogue and upcoming releases, visit the official Mubi website.
Worth a look