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Bitmax Helps Move ‘Fantastic Fungi’ Doc to Premium VOD Channels (MESA)
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Digital media management and licensing firm Bitmax is making the cult-hit documentary “Fantastic Fungi” available to major distribution platforms as a premium VOD release, first on Apple TV in August, in English, Spanish, French, Dutch and German.
GooglePlay, Amazon and Vudu will get it in September, in time for National Mushroom Month. All versions will feature digital extras package, created by Bitmax, including bonus materials and behind-the-scenes footage.
“In these extraordinary times we need content that speaks to who we are and how we might make the world a better place and as all the critics and fans agree, [director] Louie Schwartzberg has done that,” said Jay Friedman, director of sales for Bitmax. “We’re thrilled to reach new audiences who can enjoy this stunning and timely work across all the major digital outlets.”
“Fantastic Fungi” brought in $2.2 million at the box office via event-based theatrical distributor Area 23a Films, and enjoys a 100% rating on Rotten Tomatoes. Due to Covid-19, the theatrical campaign was forced to shift to virtual screenings shortly after its release.
The film, narrated by Brie Larson, is an immersive journey that takes viewers through the fungi kingdom, via the eyes of scientists and mycologists, illustrating how fungi offers solutions to medical, therapeutic, and environmental challenges.
Schwartzberg, an award-winning cinematographer, director and producer, is the only cinematographer in longest-running filmmaker to shoot time-lapse 24/7 continuously for more over three decades. His recent theatrical releases include the 3D IMAX film “Mysteries of the Unseen World” and “Wings of Life.” His “Moving Art” Netflix series is in its third season.
