James Franco’s Italian Drama ‘Hey Joe’ Secures U.S. Release Date with Trailer

Studio Dome will release James Franco’s Italian drama Hey Joe in U.S. theaters and on VOD this month. The distributor set a limited theatrical opening for March 20. A special screening at LOOK Cinemas will include a post-show Q&A with Franco.

Story and cast

The film follows Dean Barry, an American World War II veteran. He returns to Naples in the early 1970s after learning he has an estranged son. Francesco Di Napoli plays Enzo, the son. The cast also includes Giulia Ercolini, Aniello Arena, and Giada Savi.

Creative team and production

Claudio Giovannesi directed the picture. He co-wrote the screenplay with Maurizio Braucci and Massimo Gaudioso. Palomar produced the film with Rai Cinema and Vision Distribution.

Daniele Ciprì handled cinematography. Giuseppe Trepiccione was the editor. Filming took place on location in Naples, Procida, Taranto, and Pizzo.

Festival run and U.S. rollout

The film premiered at the Rome Film Festival in 2024. It opened theatrically in Italy soon after that premiere. Studio Dome picked up U.S. rights this year for theatrical and VOD release.

Distribution background

Glass House Distribution originally acquired the film last year. That company was bought by Shaked Berenson’s Studio Dome. Tom Malloy, formerly Glass House’s CEO, became Studio Dome’s COO. Studio Dome also absorbed domestic labels Entertainment Squad and PrideFlix.

Director’s perspective and audience note

Giovannesi described the film as a story about connection and second chances. He said he looks forward to U.S. audiences discovering the work. Viewers can expect to track the U.S. release date and promotional materials, including any trailer, as the rollout proceeds.

Filmogaz.com will follow further updates about screenings and digital availability. Check local listings for March 20 engagements and VOD release details.