Sony Pictures Classics Buys ‘Don’t Let’s Go to the Dogs Tonight’

Sony Pictures Classics has landed worldwide rights to “Don’t Let’s Go to the Dogs Tonight,” a dramatization of Alexandra Fuller’s memoir about growing up in the Rhodesian civil war.

The movie, which premiered at Telluride Film Festival and also screened at Toronto, was written and directed by Embeth Davidtz in her feature debut. The actress, best known for “Schindler’s List,” “Matilda,” “Junebug” and “Bicentennial Man” also portrays the mother of the main character (Fuller’s on-screen surrogate).

Set in 1979 and 1980, “Don’t Let’s Go to the Dogs Tonight” follows 8-year-old Bobo, who lives on her family farm in Rhodesia (now Zimbabwe) at the end of the Zimbabwean War for independence. As described in the official logline,” Growing up in the midst of this long running war, Bobo internalizes both sides of the struggle. Conflicted by her love for people on opposing sides, she tries to make sense of her life in a magical way. Through her 8-year-old gaze we witness Rhodesia’s final days, the family’s unbreakable bond with Africa, and the deep scars that war leaves on survivors.”

Davidtz, who was born in the United States but raised in South Africa, optioned the rights to the memoir eight years ago. She adapted the screenplay and chose to shoot in South Africa with an entirely South African cast and crew, including newcomer Lexi Venter as Bobo, whom was cast after an extensive search. According to the press release, Davidtz wanted an untrained actor to ensure the central character’s portrayal remained authentic. The cast also includes Zikhona Bali, Fumani N Shilubana, Rob Van Vuuren and Anina Hope Reed. Helena Spring, Paul Buys and Davidtz were producers while Anele Modada served as executive producer.

“I am thrilled to be working with Sony Pictures Classics to bring ‘Don’t Let’s Go to the Dogs Tonight’ to audiences globally,” says Davidtz. “I previously worked with them when I starred in ‘Junebug’ and saw their passion and skill for bringing that film to the world. It is like a dream come true that they are now distributing my screenwriting and directing debut — something I never would have imagined back then. The film is a tribute to all who have lived during difficult historical times.”

Sony Pictures Classics called Davidtz a triple threat — “a formidable director, screenwriter, and actress” — and praised Venter’s acting chops. “‘Don’t Let’s Go to the Dogs Tonight’ is a powerful, complete theatrical film experience that is beautifully directed and features one of the finest performances by a child you will ever see,” the company said in a statement.