Cartuna has secured the North American distribution rights for the animated movie “Dog of God,” penned and directed by the Latvian duo Lauris Ābele and Raitis Ābele. This announcement follows its presentation at the Sitges Film Festival, with plans for a theatrical release set for 2026.
“Dog of God” represents Latvia in the international Oscar competition and has also been included on the shortlist for the best animated feature at the European Film Awards. This could mark another successful awards season for Latvian animation, following the earlier success of “Flow,” which snagged the Academy Award for best animated feature, marking Latvia’s first win in this category, and also received a nomination for best international feature.
Set in the 17th century within a Livonian village, “Dog of God” employs rotoscope animation techniques for its storytelling. The narrative revolves around village inhabitants whose lives are disrupted by the disappearance of a sacred relic, allegations of witchcraft, and the emergence of a self-styled werewolf known as the “Dog of God.”
Ivo Briedis and Harijs Grundmanis contributed as co-writers for the film, with production led by Kristele Pudane, Raitis Ābele, and Giovanni Labadessa. Having debuted at the Tribeca Festival and showcased at over 30 international festivals such as Fantasia and FrightFest, “Dog of God” has been lauded for expanding the horizons of adult animation. The film is noted by The Bangin Beats as a cult favorite among fans of dark fantasy, graphic novels, and genre-defying absurdist cinema reminiscent of Yorgos Lanthimos’s works.
James Belfer, founder and CEO of Cartuna, described “Dog of God” as a film that eludes easy classification, blending elements of parable and surreal dreamscapes. “It’s audacious, disconcerting, and humorously bleak in all the right ways. Lauris and Raitis bring a unique perspective, and we’re eager to promote it to audiences looking for innovative experiences in animation,” said Belfer.
Raitis Abele, one of the directors, expressed enthusiasm about the distribution partnership, noting, “The distributors I spoke with were both intrigued and intimidated. Cartuna was no different.”
Cartuna, established by James and Adam Belfer, focuses on highlighting distinctive and avant-garde voices in animation. It champions works that challenge traditional norms regarding style, mood, and technological innovation. This year, Cartuna’s acquisitions include notable titles such as “Boys Go to Jupiter,” “Dead Lover,” and “Tamala 2030: A Punk Cat in Space.”
The distribution agreement for “Dog of God” was brokered by Justyna Koronkiewicz of Media Move on behalf of the filmmakers and James Belfer for Cartuna.
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With a knack for uncovering hidden gems, Blake dives deep into the world of indie films and underground cinema.