Vertical Picks Up U.S. Rights to Serbian Post-Apocalyptic Thriller 'Sanctuary'
Vertical has secured U.S. distribution for the Serbian sci-fi thriller 'Sanctuary,' which features 'The Handmaid's Tale' actress Nina Kiri. Directed by Filip Kovačević, the story is set on a post-apocalyptic Earth where a cryogenically preserved woman is discovered, prompting a young warrior to accompany her on a journey to find a lost city that could save humanity.
Vertical has secured the U.S. release path for this English-language Serbian production, marking a notable international distribution deal. The film is directed by Filip Kovačević.
The narrative centers on a village's fearful reaction to a thawed woman, prompting a young fighter to escort her toward a mythical settlement that might salvage civilization. Nina Kiri, recognized from The Handmaid's Tale, leads the cast.
This acquisition could expand the international footprint of Serbian genre cinema, potentially encouraging further cross-border financing for regional productions. For U.S. audiences, it may offer a distinct European perspective on a familiar post-apocalyptic trope, while the casting of Nina Kiri could draw her existing fanbase to the project. The deal may also signal growing commercial appetite for European sci-fi in the American market.