FilmRise Acquires Inspirational Dog Fighting Documentary ‘The Champions’

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FilmRise has picked up exclusive worldwide rights to “The Champions,” a documentary about the redemption of the pit bulls rescued from Michael Vick’s dog-fighting ring, and those who risked it all to save them. The film is director Darcy Dennett’s documentary debut. The film premiered at the 2015 Hamptons International Film Festival, where it won their 2015 Zelda Penzel “Giving Voice to the Voiceless” Award, followed by winning the People’s Choice Award at the 2015 Denver Film Festival.

The official synopsis reads: “‘The Champions’ is an inspirational story about the pit bulls rescued from the brutal fighting ring of Atlanta Falcon’s star quarterback Michael Vick, and those who risked it all to save them, despite pressure from PETA and The Humane Society to euthanize the dogs.  It is a story of second-chances, redemption and hope. This uplifting documentary takes us on a journey about much more than just dogs—about prejudice, being misunderstood, the power of resilience, and the significance of the relationship we as humans have with animals.”

“The Champions is a story about hope and resilience, but most importantly, the relationship we as humans have with animals,” said Danny Fisher, FilmRise CEO. “We are honored to be bringing its message to a global audience.”

“We are thrilled to partner with FilmRise for the distribution of ‘The Champions,'” added Dennett. “We are humbled and overwhelmed by the positive response we have received to the film so far, and hope that securing wider distribution will allow many more people to share in the uplifting story of these extraordinary dogs and the inspirational work of Best Friends Animal Society and BADRAP in 2016.”

FilmRise will release the film digitally on numerous platforms, including iTunes, Amazon Video, Google Play and Vudu, as well as on DVD and Blu-ray this winter.

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