Author/contributor
Lawrence Waks
Partner
On September 1, documentary filmmaker Alexandre O. Philippe and producer Terri Piñon, of firm client MediaNoche Productions, will unveil Kim Novak’s Vertigo at the 82nd Venice International Film Festival. The film explores the life and career of actress Kim Novak, focusing on her iconic role in Alfred Hitchcock’s “Vertigo”.
The screening coincides with the festival’s decision to honor Novak with the Golden Lion for Lifetime Achievement, presented by Guillermo del Toro – a pairing that highlights both her enduring influence and the film’s timely exploration of identity, art, and autonomy.
Kim Novak’s Vertigo secured worldwide sales representation at this year’s Cannes market, signaling strong industry confidence in an intimate re‑examination of one of cinema’s most enigmatic actors. The picture is produced by Terri Piñon and executive produced by a team, including executive producer Sue Cameron, that champions auteur driven nonfiction.
Sterlington served as development and production counsel. Partner Larry Waks, who joined the firm in March after decades of high-profile transactional work in entertainment, media, and branded consumer sectors, negotiated and drafted the financing agreements as well as agreements with the cast and crew, along with the international sales agent.
“From the start, our goal was to facilitate Kim’s vision while giving the creative team the room to share it with audiences worldwide,” Waks explains.
He adds:
“Exploring classic cinema often means working through fair use, clip- and photographic licensing as well as likeness and material details. Setting the legal groundwork early freed the team to concentrate on the story itself.”
The documentary’s Venice bow positions it for autumn festivals and awards consideration. Sterlington will continue to advise on U.S. distribution, ancillary licensing, and a potential scripted adaptation.