Full Breakdown
Peccadillo Picks Up Queer Sci-Fi Film “Chatlines” for UK Release
7/1/2026, 8:54:22 PM
UK Distribution Deal and Release Schedule
Peccadillo Pictures, a UK distributor specializing in LGBTQ+ arthouse cinema, announced it has acquired theatrical rights to the queer sci-fi film “Chatlines.” The acquisition positions the film for a UK theatrical rollout in 2027, with screenings across the United Kingdom. The deal adds to Peccadillo’s slate, which recently included the queer thriller “Blue Film.”
Plot Overview and Central Themes
Set in 2027, “Chatlines” follows Jordan (Lloyd Eyre-Morgan), a thirty-something with terminal cancer who drifts between morphine-induced dreams and digital distractions. He logs onto an outdated Chatroulette-style app and meets Danny (Nico Mirallegro), a sarcastic, vibrant man also terminally ill who insists it is 2005. Their conversations develop a deep bond as they share regrets, unfulfilled dreams, and the loneliness of facing death.
Creative Team and Principal Cast
The film is co-directed by Lloyd Eyre-Morgan, who also stars as Jordan, and Neil Ely. Nico Mirallegro co-stars as Danny, while Siobhan Finneran of “Happy Valley” appears in a supporting role. Laura Aikman and Faye McKeever also appear. Producer Paul Mortlock leads production for Punk Spirit Films, with casting by Tom Payne and Lucy Allen.
Production Background and Festival Accolades
“Chatlines” was produced by Punk Spirit Films and entered the festival circuit earlier this year. It won the Audience Favourite Award at the Manchester Film Festival and is slated to close the Manchester Scene Festival in 2026, providing a high-profile platform before its wider release. The recognition follows Eyre-Morgan’s earlier work “Departures,” also distributed by Peccadillo.
Peccadillo Pictures’ LGBTQ+ Arthouse Portfolio
Peccadillo Pictures has built a reputation for curating LGBTQ+ arthouse titles, including Eyre-Morgan’s “Departures” and the genre-blending “Night Stage.” The recent acquisition of “Blue Film,” a queer thriller, underscores its commitment to diverse, boundary-pushing narratives. Adding “Chatlines” expands Peccadillo’s representation of queer speculative fiction and aligns with its focus on under-represented voices in the UK market.
Official Statements & Responses
Peccadillo confirmed the acquisition in a distribution announcement, noting that “Chatlines” fits the company’s focus on LGBTQ+ arthouse cinema and will be released theatrically across the United Kingdom in 2027. The statement also referenced the film’s recent audience award at the Manchester Film Festival.
What’s Next
After closing the Manchester Scene Festival, “Chatlines” will enter the UK theatrical circuit in 2027, with screenings planned in major cities. The film’s festival momentum and Peccadillo’s distribution network suggest a broader rollout that may include subsequent releases in other territories.
