Sony’s Worldwide ‘Skeletons’ Deal Caps Cautious Berlin Market

Hollywood Reporter

by Scott Roxborough

February 19, 2026

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Sony Pictures' acquisition of worldwide rights to *Skeletons* for a reported $25 million marked the highlight of the 2026 European Film Market (EFM), capping a cautious yet productive event. The creature feature, starring Brie Larson and produced by JJ Abrams, was hotly contested among major studios like Warner Bros., Paramount, and Neon, with Sony emerging victorious in a fierce bidding war. This deal not only set the tone for the market but also underscored the growing appetite for genre-driven films with international appeal. The EFM saw a mix of modesty and cautious optimism this year. While the days of $100 million-plus deals are long gone, the market demonstrated signs of recovery after years of shrinking pre-sales and buyer reticence. Neon’s acquisition of *Clarissa*, a Nigerian-set adaptation of *Mrs. Dalloway* by filmmakers Arie and Chuko Esiri, highlighted the continued strength of international pre-buys, particularly in genres like psychological drama and literary adaptations. Meanwhile, Sundance hit *Josephine*, featuring Channing Tatum and Gemma Chan, was acquired by Sumerian Pictures in a competitive deal, signaling renewed interest in domestic distribution. The market also reflected broader shifts in the entertainment landscape. Independent distributors like Black Bear and Row K are stepping into gaps left by studio retrenchment, offering fresh perspectives on U.S. distribution. Zach Glueck of Manifest Pictures noted a glimmer of hope in the growing number of new entrants to the space, suggesting that competition could drive more aggressive buying in the future. Internationally, the theatrical business has rebounded faster post-COVID, with strong demand for films with global appeal, such as horror and action thrillers. The deal for *Skeletons* also highlights the importance of international markets in underpinning independent cinema. With domestic audiences still recovering, filmmakers are increasingly relying on global sales to secure financing. Glueck emphasized the need for projects that balance genre appeal with marketable hooks, noting that buyers are particularly drawn to films with proven creatives and strong star power. Despite these positives, challenges remain for independent filmmakers. Streamers and pay-TV platforms are buying fewer films and at lower prices, squeezing margins for smaller productions. However, the emergence of new distributors and the resilience of international markets offer a glimmer of hope for those navigating an evolving industry landscape. The EFM’s

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Originally published on Hollywood Reporter on 2/19/2026