Sundance Hit 'Magazine Dreams' Secures Unique UK Release Deal Amid Controversy

In a significant development for the UK film industry, the Sundance-acclaimed bodybuilding drama "Magazine Dreams" is set to hit cinemas across the country in December 2025. The film, which earned critical acclaim at the 2023 Sundance Film Festival, has faced a tumultuous journey due to assault allegations against its lead star, Jonathan Majors.

Despite the controversy, "Magazine Dreams" has secured a unique distribution partnership that will see it released in the UK through a collaboration between BUFF Studios, the distribution arm of the British Urban Film Festival, Celsius Entertainment, and Aaryan K. Trivedi's WTHW Films. This innovative deal reflects BUFF Studios' commitment to bringing bold and artistically fearless stories to UK audiences.

The film, which follows a driven but troubled bodybuilder struggling with identity, fame, and obsession, was initially distributed in the U.S. earlier this year by Briarcliff Entertainment. However, the distributor dropped the film in January 2024 after Majors was accused of domestic violence against his ex-girlfriend.

Now, the "Magazine Dreams" UK release is set to be a "statement release" for BUFF Studios, showcasing the company's evolution from a festival platform to a full-service distribution brand. The film will be rolled out across multiple sites in London, Birmingham, Leeds, Manchester, and Nottingham, marking an important milestone for the UK film industry.