New documentary from Sypher Studios, directed by John B. Benitz and narrated by Annette Bening, featuring a star-studded cast including Laura Dern, Michael C. Hall, Paul Walter Hauser, Common, DeWanda Wise, Gary Cole, and Kelvin Harrison Jr. delves into the heart of humanity via a global journey through wars via personal correspondences spanning two and half centuries

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LAS VEGAS (November 8, 2024) – Sypher Studios and Lon Haber & Co announce the AFM World Market Premiere and first-look footage of the new feature documentary, Behind the Lines, based on the New York Times bestselling book of the same name by the renowned historian Andrew Carroll. The film follows Carroll’s decades-long journey, including into active war zones, to find “the most extraordinary war letters ever written” from the American Revolution to the present day. Behind the Lines differs from other war letters-related films in that it includes correspondences from the home front as well as by civilians who are literally “caught in the crossfire.” 

Narrated by Annette Bening, the film features on-screen letter-performances by a star-studded cast including Laura Dern, Michael C. Hall, Paul Walter Hauser, Common, DeWanda Wise, Gary Cole, Kelvin Harrison Jr., and many more. Directed by first-time feature director John B. Benitz and written by Andrew Carroll, John B. Benitz, and Bryce Cyrier. Producers include Jason Pamer, Jens Jacob, Bryce Cyrier, John B. Benitz, and Andrew Carroll. Executive producers include Kerry Patton and David Lopez.

The talented, international and diverse star-studded ensemble cast includes, in order of appearance, Kelvin Harrison Jr., Abigail Cowen, Dylan Sprouse, Monique Edwards, Michael C. Hall, Garrett Schweighauser, Gary Cole, Thurn Hoffman, Jay Lee, Laura Dern, Sandra Seacat, Richard T. Jones, Rachel Bloom, Chase Cargill, Paul Walter Hauser, Kathleen Goff, Erick Lopez, Darwin Shaw, Jörg Witte, Takuya Iba, Wes Studi, Eliza Bennett, DeWanda Wise, Piotr Brozda, and Genia Michaela.

Behind the Lines was one of six finalists of the coveted Library of Congress Lavine/Ken Burns Prize for Filmwhich recognizes exemplary documentary films that tell compelling stories about American history. 

“We’re thrilled and honored to be working with the stellar cast and crew of Behind the Lines and to be able to introduce such a profoundly meaningful film to the global marketplace at the American Film Market (AFM) at a time when it is essential that stories like these are told. Behind the Lines is a rare gem that offers a first-hand, well-rounded glimpse into the personal dynamics of war and the far-ranging ripple effects it has on everyone, all over the world,” said Lon Haber, Founder of Lon Haber & Co - IPPR, who is presenting the film to buyers at AFM for the very first time. “Behind the Lines is a commercially viable product with heart, that stays true to its artistic and historic integrity, and one to which audiences from every corner of the globe can relate,” Haber continued.

“Instead of merely focusing on the wars, Behind the Lines delves into the humanity of all who serve and those connected to them with first-hand accounts spanning two and half centuries that range from heart-wrenching to heart-warming and even comedic, depicting what it’s like for those on the frontlines and their families at home on a daily basis,” said producer Jason Pamer. 

“I couldn’t be more proud of this film and how it emphasizes the service and sacrifice of our troops, our veterans, and their families. And we have so many letters and emails that I think this film could be the kick-off to a whole series in which every episode focuses on a single topic or story,” said writer and film subject Andrew Carroll.   

“This personal and emotional journey into the war experience uncovers in stark reality our worst impulses but also the secrets of our shared humanity offering hope, understanding and perhaps even compassion and reconciliation in these divisive times,” said director John B. Benitz.

Sypher Studios is repped by Neil Sacker at Sacker Entertainment Law. 

About Sypher Studios

Sypher Studios is a trailblazer in documentary and feature film production, known for creating content that challenges, inspires, and resonates with global audiences—leading the charge with the highest-grossing opening weekend of the last decade, After Death, released in over 2,700 theaters in October 2023. Sypher has established itself as a force in both commercial and critical success. 

The studio’s portfolio boasts a diverse range of projects, from the hard-hitting documentary Rape for Profit (executive produced by Jada Pinkett Smith), to socially impactful films like Cancer Alley with Steph Curry.  Sypher’s collaboration with LA Times Studios on Hidden in Plain Sight (2024 DOC NYC Selection) further demonstrates their commitment to uncovering untold stories. Recently, Sypher Studios backed Destry Spielberg’s debut feature, Please Don’t Feed the Children, which premiered at the prestigious Sitges Film Festival, further cementing its role in supporting visionary filmmakers. With a forward-looking approach, the studio is preparing to roll out significant new productions next year, including Let Me Live and The Nick Vujicic Story.