'Magazine Dreams' Starring Jonathan Majors, Secures US Distribution; Set For 2025 Release
Magazine Dreams, the Sundance hit that put Jonathan Majors in the spotlight, is finally headed to theaters. Known for his intense portrayal of a troubled bodybuilder, Majors’ performance generated significant Oscar buzz after the film’s premiere. Now, Briarcliff Entertainment has secured the U.S. distribution rights, with plans for a release in early 2025.
Majors stars as Killian Maddox, an aspiring bodybuilder obsessed with success, to the point of self-destruction. The actor underwent a drastic physical transformation for the role, training rigorously and consuming over 6,000 calories daily to embody the character. Maddox’s journey is marked by isolation, emotional turmoil, and dangerous choices, including his use of steroids, which threatens his health.
The film, directed by Elijah Bynum, captivated audiences at Sundance, earning the U.S. Dramatic Special Jury Award for Creative Vision. Majors' riveting performance helped Magazine Dreams secure an 82% approval rating on Rotten Tomatoes, establishing him as a potential awards season contender. However, shortly after the film’s initial success, Majors faced legal troubles that led to the project being shelved by its original distributor, Searchlight Pictures.
Despite the setbacks, Briarcliff Entertainment saw the undeniable strength of the film and its lead actor. Tom Ortenberg, Briarcliff's CEO, described Magazine Dreams as a "visceral experience" that explores ambition and identity in a way that will leave a lasting impact on viewers. Majors' portrayal of Maddox has been hailed as one of the most transformative performances in recent cinema, backed by a strong supporting cast including Haley Bennett, Taylour Paige, and bodybuilder Mike O’Hearn.
Produced by Jennifer Fox, Dan Gilroy, Jeffrey Soros, and Simon Horsman, with Majors himself serving as an executive producer, Magazine Dreams marks an exciting collaboration between indie filmmaking and major distribution. Audiences can expect this deeply moving and challenging film to make waves when it arrives in theaters in 2025.
