Film Movement acquires U.S. rights to Radu Jude's ‘The Diary of a Chambermaid’, marking a pivotal moment for the film's reach.
Film Movement has officially acquired the U.S. distribution rights for Radu Jude’s latest work, The Diary of a Chambermaid. This deal was confirmed during an announcement made by Film Movement president Michael Rosenberg and Kevin Chneiweiss from SBS International, following the film’s world premiere at Cannes Directors’ Fortnight.
The announcement marks a significant development for Jude, who is recognized for his first French-language feature. Film Movement plans a theatrical release in the U.S. before transitioning to Video on Demand (VOD) and other digital platforms. This strategy underscores the growing interest in international cinema among U.S. audiences.
Radu Jude’s The Diary of a Chambermaid is not only a continuation of his filmmaking prowess but also his twelfth feature in just eleven years. Prior to this film, Jude was known for notable works like Kontinental ’25 and Do Not Expect Too Much from the End of the World, which have garnered critical acclaim. Jude has also competed for prestigious awards, including the Golden Bear in Berlin and the Golden Leopard in Locarno in 2025.
The Diary of a Chambermaid is an adaptation of Octave Mirbeau’s classic novel, previously interpreted by celebrated directors such as Jean Renoir and Luis Buñuel. This version follows Gianina, portrayed by Ana Dumitrașcu, a young Romanian woman navigating her life as a housekeeper and au pair in Bordeaux. Her character faces the dual challenges of longing for her family back home while contending with the complex dynamics of her employers, played by Vincent Macaigne and Mélanie Thierry.
Jude’s adaptation brings a contemporary lens to the story, merging themes of social observation with narratives about familial bonds. As Rosenberg articulated, Jude’s film stands out for its blend of tenderness and incisive social commentary, offering U.S. audiences a unique viewing experience amidst the current cinematic landscape.
Following its acquisition, The Diary of a Chambermaid is set to make its North American debut at the Toronto International Film Festival before later screening at the New York Film Festival for its U.S. premiere. This trajectory highlights the anticipated reception of the film and positions it for discussions regarding the awards season, especially considering Jude’s prior accolades.
The addition of Jude’s film complements Film Movement’s recent acquisitions, which include a diverse range of international titles such as Orian Barki and Meriem Bennani’s animated drama Bouchra, Stillz’s Venice Orizzonti title Barrio Triste, and Chie Hayakawa’s Cannes competition film Renoir. This strategic growth reflects Film Movement’s commitment to enhancing the diversity of voices represented in U.S. cinema.
The acquisition of The Diary of a Chambermaid signifies a promising opportunity for Radu Jude to further engage with U.S. audiences through Film Movement’s distribution channels. As international films continue to gain traction within the American market, this film highlights the enriching narratives that global cinema can offer. The upcoming festival screenings will be crucial in determining the film’s overall reception and impact within the industry, marking an important milestone for Jude’s career and the exposure of Romanian cinematic storytelling in the U.S.
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