January 28, 2005 - Miramax made a move at Sundance this week, acquiring distribution rights in English-speaking territories for Furst Films' comedic adventure The Matador, starring Pierce Brosnan (The Thomas Crown Affair), Greg Kinnear (Auto Focus), Hope Davis (American Splendor), Philip Baker Hall (In Good Company), Adam Scott (The Aviator) and Dylan Baker (Hide and Seek). The deal also includes distribution of the film in European and Southeast Asian markets. The Matador, written and directed by Richard Shepard (Mexico City, The Linguini Incident), is produced by Brosnan and Beau St. Claire's Irish DreamTime. It made its North American premiere last week at the Sundance Film Festival.

"We're particularly excited about distributing Richard Shepard's The Matador; an incredibly original movie from an innovative filmmaker," says Agnes Mentre, Miramax's executive vice president of acquisitions. "We're pleased to be in business with the producers who have brought hit projects like The Thomas Crown Affair and The Cooler to film fans over the years and to continue our relationship with Stratus after our successful collaboration on Hostage."

"This is a dream come true for a filmmaker," says Shepard. "I am continuing to pinch myself that this acquisition has happened so quickly. On behalf of myself, the producers, and the executive producers, we are equally thrilled to have our film acquired by Miramax, who we believe are the best in the business of distributing independent films."

The Matador tells the story of Danny Wright (Kinnear) a traveling salesman in Mexico City who accidentally meets Julain (Brosnan), a "facilitator of fatalities." The two men, who have nothing in common, quickly become friends as each faces what will possibly be a life-changing moment.

For exclusive behind-the-scenes photos and video from the set of The Matador, click here for Pierce Brosnan's official site.