"Day of the Fight": Jack Huston's Directorial Debut Aims for Awards Glory

Could a small, yet powerful, independent film find its way into the heart of awards season? That's the question Falling Forward Films is betting on as they acquire US distribution rights for Jack Huston's directorial debut, *Day of the Fight*. This black-and-white drama tells the story of a once-renowned boxer, played by Huston's former *Boardwalk Empire

co-star Michael C. Pitt, who embarks on a redemptive journey through his past and present on the day of his first fight since being released from prison.

The film boasts a formidable cast, featuring Nicolette Robinson, Ron Perlman, John Magaro, Anatol Yusef, Steve Buscemi (another *Boardwalk Empire

alum), and Oscar winner Joe Pesci, making a brief yet impactful comeback. Huston's impressive debut has already attracted attention, garnering praise from industry professionals and securing a star-studded screening at CAA in March, attended by the likes of David O. Russell, Andy Garcia, Lawrence Bender, and Huston's own uncle, Danny Huston.

*Day of the Fight

possesses real awards potential. Huston is a strong contender for the Best Breakthrough Director Gotham Award and Best First Feature Spirit Award. Peter Simonite's monochrome cinematography is likely to be recognised for its excellence, and Pitt, a talented actor who has previously struggled to find roles worthy of his abilities, delivers a compelling performance that could earn him accolades, particularly in the gender-neutral lead acting categories of the Gotham and Spirit awards.

The film's success echoes the trajectory of numerous indie films that defied expectations, including *Whale Rider*, *Monster*, *Maria Full of Grace*, *The Visitor*, *The Messenger*, *At Eternity’s Gate*, and *To Leslie*. These films, initially released by small distributors, garnered awards recognition, demonstrating that a strong narrative and talented cast can propel a film to success, regardless of budget or distribution power.

Originally slated for release during the previous awards season, *Day of the Fight*, produced by Huston, Emma Tillinger Koskoff (The Irishman and both Joker films), Josh Porter, Jai Stefan, and Colleen Camp, premiered at the Venice Film Festival before screening at several other prestigious film festivals, including Mill Valley, SCAD, Newport Beach, and Austin. However, the film was held back to allow for greater build-up and anticipation for its release.

Now, the film is set for its theatrical debut in New York and Los Angeles on 15th November, with a nationwide expansion to follow.

"I am filled with such immense gratitude to bring *Day of the Fight

to theaters this fall," Huston shared with *The Hollywood Reporter*. "It was my goal to make something honest and relatable about the complexities of life that asks the eternal question: How far are we willing to go for the ones we love? I was blessed to have worked with the most incredible cast, who brought these characters to life with such passion, anchored by Michael C. Pitt’s achingly beautiful performance. As well as a crew whose hard work and tenacity shows in every frame. In a constantly evolving business, it takes a committed village to bring a film like this one to audiences and our partners, Falling Forward Films and PMI, helped make this possible through their unwavering support. I’ve loved every second of making this movie and I am beyond excited to share it.”

Scott Kennedy, CEO of Falling Forward Films, added, "We’re excited to share Jack Huston’s incredible new film, a true standout in the world of cinema. William Santor and Productivity Media, along with Falling Forward Films, are proud to bring this remarkable movie to audiences everywhere, and can’t wait for everyone to experience it.”

With its powerful narrative, stellar cast, and compelling cinematography, *Day of the Fight

is poised to become a contender in the upcoming awards season. As the film prepares for its release, anticipation builds for what could be a breakout year for Jack Huston, Michael C. Pitt, and a captivating story that promises to resonate with audiences worldwide.