Stages Films has delayed the premiere of its first major production, Bashment Granny, in order to explore additional distribution arrangements with a number of industry players, a release from the company states.

The film, based on the extremely popular stage play of the same name, has sparked interest, particularly in the North American market. Executive producer, Bunny Allen, explained that although discussions are still in the very early stages, it was best to delay the film in order to examine further options.

According to Allen, “Even though this is our first major film, we are working towards achieving international success. We have made an enormous investment to ensure that the technical and production quality matches international standards and that has attracted quite a bit of interest to the project. Delaying the premiere will give us the opportunity to attempt the expansion of our market beyond our original target.”

Allen also pointed out that there are no guarantees the negotiations will bear fruit but he believes the discussions will be useful in guiding future projects for Stages Films.

“We are in it for the long haul and based on our projections, it is important to us that we master the process as soon as possible. Bashment Granny has opened the door and we intend to make full use of the opportunity. Our sister company Stages Productions is known for innovations in local theatre, that’s the kind of advancement we intend to make in the local film industry.”

Bashment Granny was originally scheduled to be premiered this summer in Jamaica but is now poised for an end-of-year opening.

“An official announcement will be made shortly on the new date of the premiere and audiences can also look out for a number of activities leading up to that date.”

Activities slated to take place ahead of the premiere include the official launch of the movie’s website as well as the music video for the title track featuring Abigail ‘Babilita’ Grant. The official movie trailer is available on You Tube while behind-the-scenes news and previews are available at the Bashment Granny profile on Face Book.

Bashment Granny, the screenplay, is written and directed by Paul O Beale and edited by Joel Burke. The film features a host of local stars including Garfield ‘Bad Boy Trevor’ Reid, Keith ‘Shebada’ Ramsay, Maxwell ‘Maama Man’ Grant, Stede ‘Jooky Jam’ Flash, Abigail ‘Babilita’ Grant and Deon Silvera.