entertainment
Suncatcher Productions Secures Theatrical Rights for Tessa Blake's 'If I Tell You'
Suncatcher Productions has obtained the theatrical distribution rights for the upcoming family drama "If I Tell You." The film, directed by Tessa Blake and featuring Carol Kane, draws inspiration from a novel by Lisa O'Donnell.
8/20/2026, 7:45:43 PM
Suncatcher Productions recently announced its acquisition of the theatrical distribution rights for "If I Tell You," a new family drama helmed by director Tessa Blake. This development, reported by Variety, marks a significant step towards bringing the film to audiences.
The picture features actress Carol Kane in a leading role. "If I Tell You" is an adaptation of Lisa O'Donnell's novel, originally titled "Closed Doors." The narrative centers on a young boy, aged twelve, who endeavors to unravel a perplexing mystery while simultaneously grappling with the consequences of unspoken truths maintained by the adults surrounding him.
Filming for "If I Tell You" took place entirely in the state of Oklahoma. This production was made possible with support from the Oklahoma Film + Music Office and utilized the Oklahoma film rebate program, underscoring a commitment to regional filmmaking initiatives. Additional financing came from a combination of private equity sources.
The team behind the movie includes producers Lauren Russell, whose credits include "Palm Trees and Power Lines," and Michael Solomon, known for "Paper Spiders." Tessa Blake not only directed but also co-wrote the screenplay alongside Alexandra Blaney. Blaney previously contributed to the series "The Handmaid's Tale" and "Outer Banks."
Variety further notes that the project, originally under development at HBO for approximately seven years, ultimately transitioned to an independent production. The screenplay went through various iterations during its time at the premium cable network, suggesting a long creative journey for the material before reaching the big screen. The shift to independent financing allowed the film to move forward with its current vision and production team.
Suncatcher Productions’ move to secure distribution highlights their belief in the film's potential to resonate with audiences, emphasizing both its compelling story and strong creative team. The acquisition ensures that this family narrative, exploring themes of secrecy and discovery, will soon be available for cinematic viewing.