‘Citizen Sleuth’: Dark Sky Films Acquires North America On True Crime Documentary
EXCLUSIVE: Dark Sky Films has acquired distribution rights in the U.S. and Canada on Citizen Sleuth, a true crime documentary directed by Chris Kasick. A theatrical release is planned for later this year.
The film centers on Emily Nestor, a true crime podcaster from Appalachia, as she investigates a local, mysterious death through her hit podcast, Mile Marker 181. As Nestor blurs the line between fact and entertainment, the film explores the ethics of the true crime genre and the consequences of amateur investigations. With millions of listeners tuning in, Nestor’s pursuit of the truth unravels into a complex and troubling journey that ultimately forces her to confront her own role in the story.
The film premiered at SXSW in 2023 and went on to play Sheffield DocFest and IDFA. It was selected for “Best of Fests” at the latter.
Greg Newman, EVP of Dark Sky Films, commented, “This film challenges the conventions of the true crime genre while diving deep into the ethical implications of amateur investigations. Chris has crafted a unique and compelling narrative and we’re excited to bring Citizen Sleuth to North American audiences.”
Added Kasick, “I’ve long admired Dark Sky Films’ bold, handcrafted releases that resonate with core genre fans, while at the same time pushing mainstream boundaries. With Citizen Sleuth — a true-crime thriller with a subversive commentary on the genre — they are uniquely positioned to maximize its exposure through their innovative genre-focused distribution approach.”
Jason Resnick of Autlook Filmsales said, “Dark Sky Films is the perfect home for Citizen Sleuth in North America. We feel confident that their innovative approach to the distribution of genre films will make a great fit with Chris Kasick’s unconventional take on a true crime documentary.”
The film is produced by Kasick for CKC, Tyler Davidson and Drew Sykes for Low Spark Films, Fabiola Washburn, and Jared Washburn.
The agreement was negotiated out of the EFM by Newman for Dark Sky and Resnick for Autlook Filmsales.
