Gravitas Ventures and Kamikaze Dogfight have acquired North American rights to distribute action drama, Haymaker.
The movie will be released in theaters and on demand on January 29, 2021.
Written and directed by first time feature filmmaker Nick Sasso, Haymaker stars Zoë Bell (Once Upon a Time in Hollywood, Deathproof), Veronica Falcón (Queen of the South, Jungle Cruise), D.B. Sweeney (Sharp Objects, Two and a Half Men), Udo Kier (Blade, Downsizing), John Ventmiglia (Money Monster, Jessica Jones), Kathryn Kates (Orange is the New Black, Hunters) and Nomi Ruiz (Dispatches from Elsewhere).
Haymaker follows a retired Muay Thai fighter (Sasso) working as a bouncer, who rescues an alluring transgender performer (Ruiz) from a nefarious thug, eventually becoming her bodyguard, protector, and confidant. The relationship leads Sasso’s character to make an unexpected return to fighting, risking not only his relationship, but his life. Haymaker tells a story about human dignity and love.
“While my passion for the martial art of Muay Thai is at the center of the film, the story drives a deeper message about the importance of love and respect,” said writer/director Nick Sasso. “It’s about acknowledging the human connections people need despite their differences and the words and actions that go unsaid that mean so much more than we think.”
“It is an honor to have worked on this film for almost four years as a producer and now as the North American distributor. Nick Sasso is one of the most driven and talented directors I’ve worked with and I couldn’t be more proud of what was accomplished through his vision and leadership. Nomi Ruiz brings so much originality to the film as well, both through her performance and her music. Supporting transgender actors and producers is crucial as we work towards creating a more inclusive industry. Kamikaze Dogfight will continue to pursue opportunities that help underrepresented voices reach audiences worldwide,” says Kamikaze Dogfight partner, Andrew van den Houten.
“Haymaker fights the good indie fight with grit and devotion to the sport its story is founded upon. The diversity in this cast is one of its greatest calling cards and our team is looking forward to audiences watching their performances.” said Gravitas Ventures Senior Acquisitions Manager, Nick Royak.