Director Beth de Araújo’s acclaimed psychological drama Josephine has officially secured a theatrical release date across the United Kingdom and Ireland. Distributed under the Curzon banner, the film arrives in cinemas on November 20, 2026, following a successful run on the international film festival circuit.
The feature film stars Channing Tatum, Gemma Chan, and newcomer Mason Reeves in the central roles. Written and directed by de Araújo, following her breakout SXSW debut feature Soft & Quiet, the narrative focuses on the profound and lasting impact of trauma and violence on a young child.
Plot and Narrative Overview
The story centers on eight-year-old Josephine, portrayed by newcomer Mason Reeves. While spending time in San Francisco’s Golden Gate Park, Josephine accidentally witnesses a horrific crime. Too young to fully comprehend the disturbing events, the youngster struggles internally to process what she has seen.
As the psychological weight of the incident settles, Josephine begins acting out in alarming ways. Desperate to regain a sense of safety, control, and protection, her distress puts immense pressure on her family. Her parents, played by Channing Tatum and Gemma Chan, fight desperately to comfort their daughter and navigate a situation they cannot instantly fix.
Festival Acclaimed Run and Awards
Josephine heads to its commercial UK and Irish release backed by strong critical praise and major festival accolades. The film made its high-profile world premiere in the U.S. Dramatic Competition at the 2026 Sundance Film Festival, where it won both the Grand Jury Prize and the Audience Award.
Following its Sundance success, the psychological thriller screened in competition at the Berlin International Film Festival and appeared at the Toronto International Film Festival (TIFF). UK audiences received an early look at the project when it held its official UK premiere on October 13, 2026, at the BFI London Film Festival.
Cast and Production Details
- Director & Writer: Beth de Araújo
- Cast: Mason Reeves, Channing Tatum, Gemma Chan
- Distributor (UK & Ireland): Curzon
- Release Date: November 20, 2026
Critics at early festival screenings have singled out the performances, praising Channing Tatum’s wounded portrayal and Gemma Chan’s depiction of a protective mother. Widespread praise has focused primarily on newcomer Mason Reeves, whose performance anchors the film’s emotionally charged narrative.
Cinemagoers across the UK and Ireland can experience the emotional depth and tension of Josephine when it officially opens in theaters on November 20, 2026.
