Cinephobia Releasing is proud to announce the North American release of writer-director Fernando Andrés’s festival darling Rent Free this June for Pride Month. Cinephobia Releasing acquired rights to the film in a deal negotiated between Cinephobia President Raymond Murray and Ryan Kampe, President of Visit Films. Rent Free is set to release on VOD, digital platforms on June 27.
“Fernando Andrés expertly crafts an endearing tale of two men just trying to find their way in the world”, said Murray. “Between its stylistic charm, intriguing characters, and fresh look at young adulthood, this film is sure to make an impact. We’re excited to bring Andrés’s latest vision to North American screens.”
The sophomore film from Andrés (Three Headed Beast), Rent Free follows best friends Ben and Jordan, who, after hitting emotional and financial rock bottom, come up with a scheme to spend an entire year living “rent free” with the help of friends, family and strangers alike in a rapidly changing Austin, Texas.
“I am thrilled for Rent Free to be released in theaters and on streaming for it to find its audience beyond the festival world”, said Andrés. “And it is a great privilege to be working with a distributor like Cinephobia that is willing to champion true independent cinema in a challenging American film market that, despite a growing culture of adventurous young cinephiles, is affording fewer and fewer opportunities for low-budget productions and queer stories to be seen.”
Rent Free stars Jacob Roberts, David Treviño, Zeke Goodman (Amazon’s Cruel Intentions), Sarah J. Bartholomew (The Chosen), and Temple Baker (Everybody Wants Some!!). The film is produced by Fernando Andrés, Jacob Roberts, and Temple Baker.
The film world premiered at the 2024 Tribeca Film Festival in the US Narrative Competition to critical acclaim and two encore screenings, before playing festivals around the world, including BFI Flare London, Frameline San Francisco, New Orleans Film Festival, and the São Paulo International Film Festival.
RENT FREE on VOD, Digital June 27
Ever wonder what it’s like to live rent-free for a year? Join Ben and Jordan, two intrepid friends, as they embark on an ambitious journey full of unexpected adventures. From couch surfing to bartering, they navigate a year (several months) filled with laughter and chaos.
Financially strapped, Ben and Jordan find themselves personally and emotionally grappling with their identities. Their experiences push them beyond their comfort zones, leading to moments that make them question who they truly are. Expect sharp dialogue and memorable situations that prompt both cringes and laughter.
Each adventure becomes a lesson in friendship, resilience, and self-discovery. Viewers will enjoy the lovely cinematography that paints the vibrant streets of Austin, creating a sense of living the journey alongside these two friends. By the end, Ben and Jordan might find themselves without a traditional roof over their heads, but they’re enriched with insights that resonate long after the credits roll. Be prepared for a hilarious yet heartfelt exploration of life without a fixed address!
About Cinephobia Releasing
Launched by Ray Murray, founder of TLA Releasing and Artsploitation Films, Cinephobia Releasing is dedicated to presenting the most eye-opening genre and LGBTQ+ movies from around the world.
