Sony Pictures Classics Nabs Gonzo Doc 'For No Good Reason'

Sony Pictures Classics has acquired all North American rights to Charlie Pauls documentaryFor No Good Reasonfrom Itch Film.

The film, which was produced by Itch co-founder Lucy Paul, focuses on Gonzo illustrator RalphSteadmanand features Johnny Depp observingSteadmansunique work process at his home studio.

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Steadman is best known for his illustrations that accompanied the writings of Hunter S Thompson. Their collaborations defined theGonzoschool of journalism that emerged during the turbulent eras of Vietnam andPresident Nixon. Among his many achievements,Steadmanhas drawn political and satirical work informed by a deep social conscience, illustrated such classics books as Alice in Wonderland and Animal Farm, printed etchings on writers from Shakespeare to Burroughs and published books on the lives of Sigmund Freud, Leonardo daVinci and God.

The film also features a comprehensive soundtrack with collaborations from Slash, All American Rejects, Jason Mraz, Lynval Golding, Ed Harcourt, James BlakeandCrystal Castles. Sacha Skarbekserved as the music director.

Paul, who has been a director in advertising for years and is a former artist himself, spent a decade making the film, which marks his first feature.

Working with Ralph Steadman and using his art as the palette to construct this film, created the perfect canvass for me to make something personal, profound and very beautiful, the director said.

Added Lucy Paul, We are thrilled to be working with Sony Pictures Classics, whose love ! of the film and inventive approach to marketing will ensure our film finds the exposure and audience it deserves."

Foreign sales are being handled by Independent Film Sales.

Email: Tatiana.Siegel@THR.com, Twitter: @TatianaSiegel27