Altitude Media Group sets UK and Irish cinema release for Audrey Diwan’s Emmanuelle

Altitude Media Group has announced the UK and Irish cinema release date for the highly anticipated film Emmanuelle, directed by BAFTA-nominated Audrey Diwan. The movie is scheduled to premiere on 17^th January 2025, with a subsequent digital release on 24^th January 2025. This announcement marks a significant moment for fans of contemporary cinema and the erotic literary classic by Emmanuelle Arsan on which the film is based.

Diwan, celebrated for her Golden Lion-winning film Happening at the Venice Film Festival, has taken the helm of this project, bringing a fresh perspective to the provocative story. Her take stars Noémie Merlant, known for her role in Portrait of a Lady on Fire, who leads a cast that includes Naomi Watts, Will Sharpe, Jamie Campbell Bower and newcomer Chacha Huang.

Emmanuelle is set against the vibrant backdrop of Hong Kong, where the protagonist, Emmanuelle, goes on a business trip that evolves into a deeply personal experience of sensual discovery and self-exploration. The feature promises to challenge and redefine the boundaries of erotic cinema by focusing on themes of female autonomy, desire and the complexities of intimacy and gender dynamics.

The screenplay, co-written by Diwan and Rebecca Zlotowski, aims to cast a distinctly female gaze on the intimate quest of Emmanuelle, transforming the character into a symbol of contemporary feminine empowerment rather than mere fantasy. This approach aligns with the current cinematic trends that emphasise diverse storytelling and nuanced character development.

For fans of Diwan’s work and supporters of innovative cinema, Emmanuelle represents a significant cultural event, promising not only to entertain but also to provoke thought and discussion about the evolving landscape of film and its ability to explore complex human experiences. The anticipation surrounding the film’s release is a testament to the enduring appeal of Emmanuelle Arsan’s character and the universal themes of exploration and identity she embodies.

The editorial unit

Emmanuelle is released nationwide on 17^th January 2025.

Watch the trailer for Emmanuelle here: