Full Breakdown
Sony Pictures Classics Acquires "Ha-Chan, Shake Your Booty!" at Sundance
1/30/2026, 5:46:08 AM
Overview of the Acquisition
Sony Pictures Classics has acquired the worldwide rights to "Ha-Chan, Shake Your Booty!" following its premiere at the 2026 Sundance Film Festival. This film, directed and co-written by Josef Kubota Wladyka, is notable for being the first feature in competition at Sundance to secure a distribution deal. The film tells the story of Haru, a widow who finds solace in ballroom dancing after the death of her husband, and features a standout performance by Oscar nominee Rinko Kikuchi.
Critical Reception and Audience Response
"Ha-Chan, Shake Your Booty!" received a standing ovation during its opening night screening, indicating a strong positive reception from the audience. Critics have praised the film for its engaging narrative and emotional depth. IndieWire described it as offering an "effervescent spirit," while The Hollywood Reporter highlighted its "touching, optimistic ending." TheWrap's Katie Rife noted Kikuchi's ability to balance the film's quirky elements with emotional resonance, stating that she makes Haru a character worth rooting for.
Creative Team and Production Details
The film features a talented cast including Rinko Kikuchi, Alberto Guerra, Alejandro Edda, Yoh Yoshida, and Damián Alcázar. Wladyka, who drew inspiration from his own life experiences, underwent a personal journey as his mother, the real-life Ha-Chan, was present at the premiere and received her own standing ovation. The creative team also includes composer Nathan Halpern, cinematographer Daniel Satinoff, and editor Benjamin Rodriguez Jr. Wladyka emphasized the importance of dance in portraying the relationship between Haru and her new instructor, stating that Kikuchi underwent six months of ballroom dance training to ensure authenticity.
Official Statements
Sony Pictures Classics expressed enthusiasm for the film, stating, "Exhilarating, surprising, immensely entertaining describe this wonderful new film... We can’t wait for theatrical audiences everywhere to be energized by and smile as they watch 'Ha-Chan, Shake Your Booty!'" Wladyka shared his admiration for Sony Pictures Classics, calling the acquisition a "dream come true" and expressing eagerness for audiences to see Kikuchi's performance.
Broader Implications
The acquisition of "Ha-Chan, Shake Your Booty!" marks a significant moment for indie films at the Sundance Film Festival, showcasing the potential for unique narratives to reach wider audiences through established distributors. As the first sale in the dramatic narrative competition, it sets a precedent for future films seeking distribution deals at major festivals.
Verbatim Quotes
- “Exhilarating, surprising, immensely entertaining describe this wonderful new film directed by filmmaker, Josef Kubota Wladyka.” — Sony Pictures Classics
- “I have so much admiration and respect for the body of work and history that Sony Pictures Classics represents. To join their family and put this film out into theaters is a dream come true. I can’t wait for the world to see Rinko Kikuchi’s formidable performance,” — Josef Kubota Wladyka
- “,’ Kubota Wladyka turns the camera onto his star’s face, and she almost invariably brings it back into balance.” — Katie Rife, TheWrap
In summary, "Ha-Chan, Shake Your Booty!" stands out as a promising film that combines heartfelt storytelling with engaging performances, poised to resonate with audiences upon its theatrical release.
