Ethan Hawke documentary acquired by Sundance Selects

LOS ANGELES (Variety.com) - Sundance Selects has bought U.S. and Latin American rights to Ethan Hawke's documentary "Seymour: An Introduction," just prior to its world premiere at the Telluride Film Festival.

The documentary, which profiles pianist Seymour Bernstein, was produced by Greg Loser and Heather Smith of Room 5 Films, and Ethan and Ryan Hawke of Under The Influence Productions. It's Ethan Hawke's debut as a documentary director.

"Seymour" will screen on Saturday at Telluride, followed by screenings at both Toronto International Film Festival and New York Film Festival.

Bernstein is a piano prodigy who was teaching the instrument to others by the time he was 15. After a long and illustrious career as a performer, he devoted himself to helping others develop their own gifts.

"We have had the great fortune of working with Ethan throughout his career, going back to his directorial debut 'Chelsea Walls' and most recently with Richard Linklater's 'Boyhood,'" said IFC president Jonathan Sehring. "We are thrilled to continue our relationship with his absolutely charming first documentary feature."

Hawke said, "IFC Films has always been a champion of the kind of cinema I most admire."

The deal for the film was negotiated by Arianna Bocco for Sundance Selects/IFC Films with John Sloss of Cinetic Media on behalf of the filmmakers. Hawke is represented by CAA and The Schiff Company.