What is 'Maddie's Secret' about?

"Maddie's Secret" is a film written, produced, and directed by comedian John Early, who also stars as the title character, Maddie, a food content creator grappling with a troubled past. The film is a mix of satire and melodrama that pays homage to the "movie of the week" TV genre.

Who acquired the rights to 'Maddie's Secret'?

Magnolia Pictures has acquired the U.S. rights to "Maddie's Secret" and plans to release the film in theaters in 2026.

When did 'Maddie's Secret' premiere?

"Maddie's Secret" premiered at the 2025 Toronto International Film Festival as the opening night selection of the Discovery Section.

Home / Arts and Entertainment / Indie Filmmaker John Early Scores Magnolia Pictures Deal for Quirky Dramedy 'Maddie's Secret'

Indie Filmmaker John Early Scores Magnolia Pictures Deal for Quirky Dramedy 'Maddie's Secret'

9 Oct

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Summary

Magnolia Pictures acquires U.S. rights to John Early's film 'Maddie's Secret'
Film premiered at 2025 Toronto International Film Festival
Mix of satire and melodrama, homage to "movie of the week" TV genre

Indie Filmmaker John Early Scores Magnolia Pictures Deal for Quirky Dramedy 'Maddie's Secret'

In a notable acquisition, Magnolia Pictures has secured the U.S. rights to "Maddie's Secret," a unique film written, produced, and directed by comedian John Early. The movie, which had its world premiere as the opening night selection of the Discovery Section at the 2025 Toronto International Film Festival, is a blend of satire and melodrama that pays tribute to the "movie of the week" TV specials that were once a popular format.

Starring Early in the title role of Maddie, a food content creator grappling with a troubled past, the film also features Eric Rahill as her adoring husband and Kate Berlant as her ride-or-die best friend. The ensemble cast is rounded out by Claudia O'Doherty, Conner O'Malley, Vanessa Bayer, Leah Hennessey, Emily Allan, Ruby McCollister, Pat Regan, Dominique Witten, Chris Bauer, and Kristen Johnston.

Magnolia Pictures, known for championing unique independent films, plans to release "Maddie's Secret" in theaters in 2026. The co-CEOs of the distribution company, Eamonn Bowles and Dori Begley, expressed their excitement about the acquisition, stating that they were "super fans of John Early" and were captivated by his "totally unique weaving of sacred homage and profane sendup."

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