A24 Lands Olivia Wilde's New Sex Comedy After Bidding War

A24 has acquired Olivia Wilde's newest directorial project, 'The Invite,' in a notable Sundance bidding war. This acquisition marks a reunion between Wilde and producers Megan Ellison and Annapurna, who previously collaborated on 'Booksmart.' The film, a sex comedy and remake of the Spanish movie 'Sentimental,' features a star-studded cast including Seth Rogen, Ed Norton, Penelope Cruz, and Wilde.

The story centers on a couple, played by Wilde and Rogen, whose relationship is strained and who host a dinner party with their seemingly idyllic neighbors, portrayed by Norton and Cruz. The premiere at Sundance received a standing ovation, and critics have been largely positive, commending Wilde's direction in her third feature film. The Hollywood Reporter described it as "smart, sophisticated and incisively acted adult entertainment." The sale represents the first major deal of the festival, following an intense, all-night bidding process involving distributors like Neon, Focus, and Netflix. Wilde expressed her desire for creative freedom, choosing to film outside the traditional studio system. She highlighted the collaborative environment as a dream experience for her career. UTA Independent Film Group and FilmNation co-represented the film sale.