Florence Pugh-led ‘The Midnight Library’ sparks major studio competition at Cannes Film Market
Florence Pugh’s upcoming fantasy drama “The Midnight Library” has become one of the most sought-after projects at the Cannes Film Market, attracting significant interest from several major Hollywood studios. According to industry reports, Paramount, Focus Features, and Sony are actively competing for domestic and select international distribution rights, making the film one of the most competitive titles at this year’s market. The project is being sold by Studiocanal, which is expected to retain distribution rights in several territories, following a structure similar to its handling of previous successful releases.
Based on Matt Haig’s internationally bestselling novel, the story follows Nora Seed, a woman who finds herself in a mystical library between life and death. There, she is given the chance to explore alternate versions of her life, examining the consequences of different choices she might have made. The novel has sold more than 15 million copies and has been translated into over 50 languages, contributing to strong industry confidence in the adaptation’s commercial potential.
The film is directed by Garth Davis, known for “Lion,” and the screenplay is adapted by award-winning writers Laura Wade and Nick Payne. Studiocanal and Blueprint Pictures are producing the project, with Matt Haig also serving as executive producer. Florence Pugh is not only starring as the lead character but is also listed among the producers, alongside Graham Broadbent, Pete Czernin, and Anita Overland.
Production is currently expected to move into pre-production later in the year, with filming planned for early 2027. Analysts suggest the distribution deal could become one of the largest to emerge from Cannes this year, potentially exceeding $30 million once finalized. Studiocanal is also expected to manage theatrical distribution across multiple international territories, including Europe, Australia, New Zealand, and parts of Africa, reinforcing the project’s global release strategy.