Focus World Reveals Release Plan for Sci-Fi Comedy 'Extraterrestrial'

Focus World, Focus Features’ new digital distribution initiative, will release Nacho Vigalondo’s science fiction comedy Extraterrestrial on June 15 in a partnership with the web platform Tugg.

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The movie will be released simultaneously in theaters and via video-on-demand and also will be available for audiences nationwide to create their own theatrical screenings through the Tugg platform. Extraterrestrial will have an initial theatrical release in Brooklyn and Seattle, open a week later in North Hollywood and then play Alamo Drafthouse Cinema locations in Texas in June.

Through Tugg, an individual can create personalized theatrical screenings by selecting the date, time and theater of his choice and then spreading the word to their friends and fellow film fans. Once enough people commit to attending, the event will be automatically confirmed and fans can host their own screening.

Extraterrestrial, which had its world premiere at the 2011 Toronto International Film Festival, follows up on Vigalondo’s Timecrimes. In the movie, two strangers in Madrid find their morning disrupted by a suspicious neighbor, an ex-boyfriend and a mysterious flying saucer. Entertainment One will release Extraterrestrial on DVD this summer.

The release plan was announced by Focus president Andrew Karpen. The deal was closed by Avy Eschenasy, executive vp strategic planning, business affairs and acquisitions, with Kent Sanderson, director of alternative content and distribution.