Bangkok-based sales agent Diversion has licensed Tan Siyou's acclaimed film 'Amoeba' to Dekanalog for North American distribution.
On September 18, 2026, it was announced that Bangkok-based sales agent Diversion has licensed the North American distribution rights of Tan Siyou’s celebrated film Amoeba to Dekanalog. This deal marks a significant step for the film, which has already garnered critical acclaim since its premiere.
Amoeba, Tan Siyou’s debut feature, premiered in the Discovery section of the 2025 Toronto International Film Festival (TIFF). The film has captivated audiences and received several prestigious awards, including Best Youth Film at the Asia Pacific Screen Awards.
From its time on the international festival circuit, Amoeba has stood out for its exploration of themes relevant to youth and rebellion within a conformist society. The film follows a 16-year-old high school dropout in Singapore who defies authoritative figures in her elite all-girls Chinese school, forming a close-knit group with fellow misfits.
The reception of Amoeba has been overwhelmingly positive, with the film winning multiple awards at various international film festivals. Notable accolades include:
The film’s extensive festival journey also saw it featured at prestigious events such as the Busan International Film Festival, the Tokyo Filmex, and AFI Fest.
Dekanalog is planning a theatrical release of Amoeba in the United States in the spring of 2027, followed by availability on VOD and Blu-Ray, as well as a theatrical launch in Canada. This strategic release schedule aims to maximize audience engagement with this groundbreaking debut.
Sam Wunderl, a partner at Dekanalog, highlighted the film's portrayal of complex female friendships as one of the standout aspects of Amoeba, further establishing Tan Siyou as an exciting new voice in cinema.
Amoeba was produced through a collaborative effort that includes international partners such as Akanga Film Asia from Singapore, Volya Films from the Netherlands, Les Films d'Antoine from France, and Mararía Films from Spain, among others. This multinational co-production has contributed to the film’s rich narrative and diverse storytelling.
The acquisition of Amoeba by Dekanalog not only opens up the film to North American audiences but also signals a growing interest in international cinema that addresses universal themes through unique local lenses. As the film discusses friendship and defiance in a restrictive society, it is expected to resonate with a wide array of viewers. The anticipated theatrical and home media release will likely ensure that this compelling work garners more attention and accolades as it continues its journey in the spotlight of film industry discussions.
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