Mubi Buys UK-Ireland Rights to 125-Minute Cannes Title 'Coward'
Updated
Updated · Screen International · May 21
Mubi Buys UK-Ireland Rights to 125-Minute Cannes Title 'Coward'
4 articles · Updated · Screen International · May 21
Mubi has acquired key territories including the UK and Ireland for Lukas Dhont’s 125-minute Cannes Competition film “Coward,” expanding early distribution for the First World War romance.
The deal comes as Lumiere takes Benelux and Diaphana Distribution secures France, giving the Belgian-French-Dutch production a core European release footprint.
Dhont’s latest follows two soldiers in a clandestine wartime love affair, with newcomers Emmanuel Macchia and Valentin Campagne leading a story set around drag theatre performances at the front.
The film marks Dhont’s return to Cannes competition after “Close” won the 2022 Grand Prix and later earned an Oscar nomination for best international feature.
Why is Lukas Dhont's new film splitting critics, being called both a masterpiece and a phony melodrama?
How does 'Coward' challenge our perception of masculinity and life on the front lines of World War I?
Mubi Secures Global Rights to Lukas Dhont’s "Coward" at Cannes 2026: Critical Acclaim and Award Buzz for Queer WWI Love Story
Overview
At the 2026 Cannes Film Festival, Mubi made a major move by acquiring Lukas Dhont’s highly anticipated film "Coward," reinforcing its commitment to auteur cinema and acclaimed festival titles. This strategic acquisition ensures "Coward" will have a prominent international release through Mubi, reaching audiences worldwide beyond specific European markets, where Lumière and Diaphana Distribution will handle Benelux and France, respectively. Mubi’s approach highlights its ongoing support for distinctive cinematic voices and builds on its established strategy of bringing celebrated films to a global audience, positioning "Coward" as a key title in its international lineup.