The the Sundance Film Festival has begun, and the first deal has already been made – the acquisition of a film that was on the S&A list of 24 *black films* to see at the festival this year.

First, a recap…

Aptly titled Twenty Feet From Stardom, here's how it's described by the festival, where it's set to make its debut next month:

What would a pop song be without the riffs, refrains, and harmonies of its backup vocalists? Although these singers are usually relegated to the margins, and few, if any, become household names, their work has defined countless songs that remain in our hearts and collective consciousness. Twenty Feet from Stardom juxtaposes interviews with industry legends (Bruce Springsteen, Stevie Wonder, and others) and the relative unknowns who support them like Darlene Love, Merry Clayton, Lisa Fischer, and Judith Hill as they illuminate the art of melding their own distinct voices with lead vocals and reveal their desires for careers as solo artists. Twenty Feet from Stardom traces the backup singers’ history—from those Phil Spector–produced pop tunes and soul-inspired British Explosion acts of the 1960s, to their reversal of fortune when the recording industry changed in the 1990s, and into today.

The film, directed by Morgan Neville, promises an unprecedented look at the personal journeys of these normally un-celebrated, although indispensable artists, and pays tribute to their unforgettable role in popular music.

It was announced via press release today that, RADiUS-TWC acquired North American rights to the film, which is said to have received an overwhelming standing ovation at last night’s world premiere.

RADiUS will release the film theatrically, aiming for a late summer 2013 date.

The film was produced by Gil Friesen with director Neville’s Tremolo Productions.

Tom Quinn and Jason Janego of RADiUS negotiated the deal with Submarine’s Josh Braun and David Koh on behalf of the filmmakers.

No trailer yet…