EXCLUSIVE: Cohen Media Group has taken U.S. domestic distribution rights to Stéphane Demoustier‘s The Great Arch.
The historical drama is based on the true story of the Great Arch of La Défense, one of the most ambitious architectural undertakings of modern France, centering on Danish architect Otto von Spreckelsen, who was thrust into the spotlight after winning the 1983 international competition to design it. Against all odds, von Spreckelsen had emerged as the unlikely winner of the competition, propelled from obscurity in Denmark to the helm of a pharaonic project in Paris. His uncompromising vision would soon collide with political maneuvering, bureaucratic obstacles and the harsh realities of construction.
The historical drama starring Claes Bang as von Spreckelsen made its world premiere in the Un Certain Regard section at last spring’s Cannes Film Festival and is set for a U.S. domestic premiere at this year’s AFI Fest on Sunday at 8 pm. The Great Arch will play in stateside theaters in early 2026.
The acquisition was negotiated by Robert Aaronson, EVP of Cohen Media Group, with Romain Rancurel, Head of Sales at Le Pacte, on behalf of the filmmakers.
Pic is produced by Muriel Meynard at Paris-based production company Ex Nihilo. The Great Arch is also co-produced with Zentropa (Denmark), France 3 Cinéma (France) and Le Pacte (France).
“We are thrilled to introduce the work of Stéphane Demoustier to U.S. audiences with his latest masterwork, The Great Arch,” Aaronson said. “He has seamlessly woven the facts of a true story with the fictional elements of a deeply felt drama. Claes Bang delivers a career-best performance.”
Added Rancurel: “Following a warm reception at the Cannes Film Festival, we’re thrilled to partner with Cohen Media Group for the upcoming U.S. release of Stéphane Demoustier’s The Great Arch. Charles S. Cohen’s dedication to bringing French cinema to U.S. audiences is undisputed. And thanks to CMG’s Landmark Theatres, the largest independent circuit in the U.S., Americans will soon be able to discover the film as it ought to be seen: on the big screen.”