Full Breakdown
'The One Before The One' – New YA Romance Film Set for Production in Austin
5/13/2026, 12:47:48 AM
Film Announcement and Production Overview
The Cannes market in May 2026 saw Blue Fox Entertainment introduce *The One Before The One*, a young-adult romance slated for worldwide sales. The film stars Charlie Gillespie, Sara Waisglass and Siena Agudong. It is written and directed by Brittany Sarkisian, based on a story by John E Clark, and produced by Sarkisian and Jaylen Moore for Showmance Productions with Raja Collins, Dan Sheldon and Tara Pirnia. Principal photography begins on 6 July 2026 in Austin, Texas, and the narrative is set against late-1990s nostalgia and the Y2K era.
Key Production Personnel
The film is produced by Brittany Sarkisian and Jaylen Moore under Showmance Productions, with additional production support from Raja Collins, Dan Sheldon and Tara Pirnia.
Cast Representation
Charlie Gillespie is represented by Vanderwerff Talent and David Dean Management; Sara Waisglass by Play Management and Amplified; Siena Agudong by the Gersh Agency, Amsel, Eisenstadt, Frazier & Hinojosa Talent Agency (AEFH) and Trilogy Talent.
Production Timeline
The project was announced at the Cannes market in May 2026. Filming is scheduled to start on 6 July 2026 in Austin, Texas. Details on post-production and release dates have not been disclosed.
Market Position and Impact
The late-1990s setting, featuring Nokia phones, house parties and Y2K anxieties, aligns with current nostalgia trends in teen media. By pairing a time-travel premise with a charismatic cast, the film aims to attract both domestic and international young-adult audiences. Blue Fox Entertainment anticipates that the combination of familiar cultural references and a fresh narrative will generate broad appeal. The inclusion of period-specific details such as Nokia phones, house parties and alt-rock soundtracks is intended to evoke the lived experience of late-1990s teenagers, potentially enhancing emotional connection for viewers who recall that era.
Official Statement Summary
Blue Fox Entertainment president Lisa Gutberlet said the company is enthusiastic about handling worldwide sales for Sarkisian’s directorial debut. She described the film as a fresh, imaginative and heartfelt take on a familiar, relatable premise, emphasizing the appeal of reliving a pivotal life moment with adult insight and noting the charismatic cast as a key driver of global audience resonance.
Verbatim Quote
> “We’re thrilled to be handling worldwide sales for Brittany Sarkisian’s feature directorial debut. The film takes a familiar and deeply relatable idea and approaches it in a fresh, imaginative and heartfelt way. Everyone has wondered what it would be like to relive a pivotal moment of their life with the wisdom they have now. Combined with this tremendously charismatic cast, the film has all the ingredients to resonate with audiences around the world.” — Lisa Gutberlet, President, Blue Fox Entertainment
What’s Next
Following the July 6 start of principal photography, the production will move into post-production. Blue Fox Entertainment will continue to handle worldwide sales and market the film globally.
