Indie distribution company Entertainment Squad has boarded the feature adaptation of the short Play It Again, marking its first original production under the recently acquired PrideFlix label. The LGBTQ+ romantic comedy, to be directed by Dan Abramovici (Ben’s at Home), will be produced by Stagg Forrest Films’ Kate Forrest and Myrthin Stagg, alongside executive producers David J. Phillips (Eat Wheaties!) and Entertainment Squad founder Shaked Berenson (Slaxx).
“A festival-winning short that resonated with audiences worldwide, Play It Again follows a daydreamer with a penchant for Hollywood-inspired fantasies, as she navigates the complexities of confessing her love to her best friend during a family gathering,” the company said in a synopsis. “The feature expands on the themes of missed opportunities, unspoken emotions, and the unpredictability of relationships, all wrapped in a fresh, genre-bending rom-com.”
Said Forrest and Stagg: “Play It Again is a heartfelt tribute to romantic comedies, blending wit, warmth, and a perfect touch of nostalgia. It’s the kind of film that makes you laugh, maybe tear up a little, and definitely root for love in all its messy glory. Original and unpredictable rom-coms have found a strong and engaged audience, and Play It Again taps into that growing market with a fresh and self-aware approach to the genre.”
Added Phillips: “With unique quirkiness, a nod to old Hollywood classics, and relatable characters all dealing with the universal frustrations in relationships, this film has strong commercial legs while gladly including LGBTQ+ audiences and beyond. Given the success of films like Love, Simon and Happiest Season, there’s a clear appetite for high-quality modern and inclusive stories that stand out in the marketplace.”
Berenson, CEO of Entertainment Squad, highlighted that “the demand for diverse, inclusive storytelling is stronger than ever,” adding: “With its unique take on queer relationships and a mix of humor and heartfelt drama, Play It Again is primed for both niche LGBTQ+ platforms like PrideFlix as well as mainstream services.”
Currently in pre-production, Play It Again is set for a 2026 release under the PrideFlix banner, with casting news expected soon.
Entertainment Squad’s acquisition of PrideFlix earlier this year “solidified its commitment to revitalizing LGBTQ+ content, with Martin Gallery recently appointed as vp of sales and acquisitions, the company said.
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