Swiss Oscar Entry ‘Late Shift’ Sells to Music Box for North America

Music Box Films has acquired the North American distribution rights for Petra Volpe’s “Late Shift,” which was revealed today to be Switzerland’s official entry for the International Feature Film category for the Academy Awards.

TrustNordisk is handling international rights on the film, which stars Leonie Benesch, who previously appeared in the Oscar-nominated drama “The Teachers’ Lounge” in 2023, and Oscar-nominated drama “September 5” last year.

“Late Shift” follows a nurse, Floria, as she navigates the relentless pace on a surgical ward with unwavering dedication, infusing humanity and warmth into her patient care even though the shift is understaffed. As the day intensifies, the film transforms into a gripping race against time, culminating in a riveting climax.

The film had its world premiere at Berlin Film Festival in February, and TrustNordisk has sold it to more than 50 countries. It has attracted more than 650,000 theatrical admissions in Germany, Austria and Switzerland.

Brian Andreotti, head of acquisitions at Music Box, said, “No one needs to bone up on the intricacies of the Swiss health care system before seeing ‘Late Shift’ because Petra’s movie is universal, a grounded thriller that’s readily relatable to anyone who spends their working day on their feet. Leonie’s outstanding central performance is a feat of stamina that drives home the dignity and strength of nurses everywhere.”

The film is directed and written by Volpe, and is produced by Reto Schaerli and Lukas Hobi from Zodiac Pictures, in co-production with MMC Zodiac, Swiss Radio and Television and SRG SSR. With support from Federal Office of Culture, Zurcher Filmstiftung, German Federal Film Board, Suissimage and the cantons of Aargau and Lucerne.

The deadline to submit international feature selections to the Academy of Motion Picture Arts and Sciences is Oct. 1. The Oscars shortlists are revealed on Dec. 16,…