Film distributor nabs Sebring’s punk-rock biopic

By WINTER MILLER
Palm Pictures has picked up domestic rights to tyro helmer Steven Sebring’s doc “Patti Smith: Dream of Life.” Punk-rock biopic won the top cinematography kudo and grand jury nom at Sundance this year.

Deal encompasses North American theatrical, nontheatrical, homevideo and VOD distribution rights. Palm plans a late summer theatrical opening, followed by a DVD release early next year.

Sebring, who first met his subject when he photographed her for Spin magazine, spent 11 years trailing Smith as she traveled the world. Narrated by Smith, doc blends her performances, poetry, lyrics, painting and photography with interviews with subjects Philip Glass and Sam Shepard.

“Patti Smith is a cultural pioneer whose energy and powerful vision redefined the world of music. We are honored to have the opportunity to bring ‘Dream of Life’ to both theatrical audiences and her longtime fans,” said Jan Korbelin, managing partner of Palm.

“Dream” was produced by Margaret Smilow of Thirteen/WNET with Sebring and Scott Vogel.