Channing Tatum's Dedication SHOCKS Hollywood! 'It Follows' Sequel?!

Sundance darling "Josephine" is already generating buzz, and for good reason. Producer David Kaplan recently shed light on the dedication of its stars, Channing Tatum and Gemma Chan, and the film's challenging journey to the screen.

Channing Tatum's Dedication SHOCKS Hollywood! 'It ...

Tatum ("Roofman") and Chan ("Crazy Rich Asians") portray the parents of young Josephine, played by the incredibly talented Mason, in a story tackling a difficult subject: the aftermath of a violent sexual assault witnessed by the child in San Francisco's iconic Golden Gate Park. It's heavy stuff, but Kaplan's comments suggest the cast approached the material with the necessary sensitivity and commitment.

Kaplan emphasized Chan's long-standing belief in the project. "Gemma's involvement in this film dates back many years," he said. "She stood by it when it was happening before and it fell apart, and she stood by it when it was time to make the movie. She made the time and was so deeply committed to the character she played." That kind of loyalty in the fickle world of Hollywood is rare and speaks volumes.

And while Tatum joined the project later, his passion was just as fervent. Kaplan recounted anecdotes of Tatum actively pitching the film to potential investors, showcasing his genuine belief in "Josephine's" message. "I heard stories from people who were involved in the film and people who weren’t involved in the film that he would see people who could finance the film and say, ‘I’m trying to make this film, Josephine, and I believe in it so strongly, and I hope you’ll be a part of it." Talk about dedication!

But it wasn't just the A-listers; Kaplan also highlighted the exceptional performance of young Mason, who was only seven during filming. He noted the sacrifices the production made to accommodate her age, emphasizing the director's unwavering belief in her talent. "Beth had to make compromises creatively to cast this girl who had never acted before… clearly it was the right choice. So, I don’t know, sometimes serendipity or just believe the director who knows what she wants.”

Perhaps unsurprisingly, securing funding proved to be a major hurdle. Kaplan revealed that "99 percent" of potential backers declined, suggesting a bias against films centering on female perspectives and issues like sexual assault. It's a disheartening reality, but thankfully, "Josephine" found its champion.

Sumerian Pictures recently acquired U.S. rights to the film in a competitive bidding war, marking a significant win for the indie distributor. Kaplan explained the decision-making process, highlighting the importance of both financial considerations and a theatrical commitment. Ultimately, Sumerian's vision aligned with the filmmakers' desire to reach a wider audience and ensure investors saw a return on their risk.