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Josephine Draws Standing Ovations at Sundance as 8-Year-Old Mason Reeves Breaks Out

Critics praise Beth de Araújo’s autobiographical drama for its unflinching perspective through a child witness.

Overview

  • The world premiere in the U.S. Dramatic Competition sparked an emotional response, with Channing Tatum saying he cried “five, six, seven” times and audiences giving multiple standing ovations.
  • Reviewers highlight performances by Mason Reeves, Channing Tatum, and Gemma Chan, noting the film’s focus on a family navigating the aftermath of a traumatic event.
  • Writer-director Beth de Araújo says the film stems from a childhood incident, a project she began in 2014 and refined with SFFILM grants and Sundance Labs support.
  • Reeves was discovered at a San Francisco farmers market, and the team maintained child-safety protocols, keeping her away from violent material and some screenings.
  • Festival momentum continues with a scheduled Berlin screening, while CAA/WME manages sales and distribution plans await announcement.