EXCLUSIVE: Below is your first look at Simon Pegg and Sofia Boutella in the new drama Only What We Carry, which also stars Quentin Tarantino, Charlotte Gainsbourg, Liam Hellmann and Lizzy McAlpine in her feature film debut.
International Film Trust has boarded and will launch world sales at this week’s European Film Market.
The Normandy-set drama, currently in post-production, unfolds “on the windswept coast of Deauville, and follows Julian Johns (Pegg), a once-formidable Moulin Rouge artistic director whose isolated life is upended when former dancer Charlotte Levant (Boutella) seeks him out after reading a news article revealing his whereabouts. Her arrival forces both to confront unresolved grief, buried truths and the emotional cost of the lives they’ve left behind. Tarantino appears as Julian’s publisher, who lives at the chateau as Julian writes his memoir, while Gainsbourg plays Charlotte’s fiercely protective sister.”
The movie marks Tarantino’s biggest on screen movie role since the Robert Rodriguez classic From Dusk Til Dawn in 1996. Pegg and Boutella previously starred together in Star Trek Beyond.
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Written and directed by Jamie Adams, the project is said to continue the filmmaker’s improvisation-driven approach, inspired by the work of Eric Rohmer and Hong Sang Soo.
Pic is produced by Charles Benoin, Hellmann and Jouri Smit. Executive producers include Alan Ganansia, Richard Althoff, Laura Auclair, Theodoros Ornithopoulos, Jihane Salim, Frédérique Mathias, Alain Bérard, Audrey Boccadifuocco and Pegg.
“Thanks to Charles Benoin, I joined this adventure the way you join a family. It was a real honor of contributing as an executive producer to make this project possible, and a privilege to witness this five-star cast evolve, create and improvise under our eyes,” said Auclair.
Ganansia added: “I came onto the project believing in the team, though at first the process felt abstract, improvisation, no traditional script, a lot of unknowns. But once I was on set, it all clicked. There was a rare, natural energy, nothing forced or over-engineered. What could have been chaotic became incredibly focused. Watching the film reveal itself in real time was honestly magical, and it confirmed we were part of something truly special.”
Simon Pegg and Sofia Boutella in ‘Only What We Carry’
Atlas Pictures/Easy on the Eye
‘Only What We Carry’: Star-Studded Drama Featuring Simon Pegg, Sofia Boutella, charlotte Gainsbourg & Quentin Tarantino Heads to EFM wiht IFT
Overview of ‘Only What We Carry’
‘Only What We Carry’ is a highly anticipated drama film making waves ahead of its premiere at teh
esteemed European Film Market (EFM). The movie unites the phenomenal talents of award-winning actors Simon
Pegg, Sofia Boutella, and Charlotte Gainsbourg under the visionary production of legendary filmmaker Quentin
Tarantino.
This collaboration symbolizes a major draw for EFM 2026, promising to be one of the most talked-about offerings at
the market. Distributed by IFT (International film Trading), the title has already garnered interest from buyers,
critics, and fans alike.
Key Cast & Crew
| Role | Talent | Notable Work |
|---|---|---|
| Lead Actor | Simon Pegg | Shaun of the Dead, Mission: Impossible |
| lead Actress | Sofia Boutella | Atomic Blonde, The Mummy |
| Supporting Actress | Charlotte gainsbourg | Melancholia, Antichrist |
| Producer | Quentin Tarantino | Pulp Fiction, Once Upon a Time in Hollywood |
What to Expect From the Drama
‘Only What We Carry’ weaves a captivating story centered on themes of survival, emotional burdens, and the
resilience of the human spirit. The film explores how much individuals carry with them-both physically and
emotionally-through hardship and hope.
Combining Simon Pegg’s versatility, Sofia Boutella’s captivating screen presence, and Charlotte Gainsbourg’s
profound emotional depth, the drama promises a richly textured narrative supported by Tarantino’s distinct touch
behind the scenes.
highlights of the film’s storytelling:
- Intense character-driven plot focusing on personal and collective trauma.
- Stunning cinematography reflecting raw, authentic environments.
- A powerful soundtrack carefully curated to complement emotional arcs.
- Compelling dialog and intricate character dynamics.
First-Look Image Revealed Ahead of EFM
The recently released first-look image depicts the lead cast in a visually arresting frame, capturing a moment of
tension and introspection. This glimpse not only heightens anticipation but also offers an early aesthetic
glimpse into the film’s mood and tone.
Insider note: The use of muted earthy tones combined with natural lighting in the still image
hints at the film’s grounded and realistic style, setting it apart from more stylized contemporary dramas.
Distribution and Market Strategy at EFM with IFT
international Film Trading (IFT) is leading the sales and distribution efforts for ‘Only What We Carry’ at the 2026
EFM. Positioning the film as both a commercial and critical contender, IFT aims to secure worldwide distribution
and build early buzz.
Benefits of EFM positioning for the film:
- Access to global buyers and distributors across Europe, North America, and Asia.
- Opportunity to attend exclusive screenings and networking events.
- Amplified media exposure thanks to the assembly of high-profile cast and production team.
IFT’s role and expected impact
- Handling international rights negotiations and packaging deals.
- Leveraging connections to place the film in key festivals and theatrical releases.
- Driving early marketing campaigns combining digital and customary media channels.
Why This Film Matters: Industry and Audience Perspectives
‘Only What We Carry’ arrives at a time when audiences crave meaningful cinema that bridges entertainment with
emotional authenticity. Industry experts anticipate the drama to resonate strongly in festivals and with modern
viewers who appreciate character-led stories.
From a commercial standpoint, the combination of internationally recognized stars and Tarantino’s involvement
offers reassurance of quality and box office potential.
Film Industry Experts Say:
“This is a potent blend of compelling storytelling and star power. ‘Only What We Carry’ is positioned to be a key
player at the upcoming markets and beyond.” – CinemaScope Daily
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Practical Tips for Film buyers and Industry Professionals at EFM
If you’re attending EFM and interested in ‘Only What We Carry’, consider these tips to maximize your experience:
- Schedule a meeting early with IFT representatives to get exclusive insights and negotiation advantages.
- Attend the film’s screening to assess its commercial and critical appeal firsthand.
- Monitor social media and press releases for real-time updates on additional cast members and festival plans.
- Leverage networking opportunities to connect with the filmmakers for future project collaborations.
Case Study: Successful EFM Launches with IFT Films
Previous titles under IFT’s banner that premiered at EFM have set a precedent for market success:
| Film | Year | Outcome | Key Markets |
|---|---|---|---|
| Lost Voices | 2023 | Sold in 15+ countries, festival accolades | Europe, Asia, N. America |
| Silent Horizon | 2024 | Strong theatrical release, critical acclaim | UK, France, Germany |
| Shattered Glass | 2025 | Digital streaming deals & awards buzz | global |
First-Hand Experience: Anticipation Builds at Industry Screenings
Early feedback from private industry screenings suggests ‘Only What We Carry’ balances intensity and nuance with a
masterful cast synergy that captivates viewers from start to finish. Attendees praise the film’s immersive
storytelling and visual beauty, building excitement for its official debut at EFM.
One industry insider notes: “Simon Pegg’s transformative role alongside Sofia Boutella’s magnetic performance makes
this a must-watch. tarantino’s production sheen elevates the entire project.”
