“Keep Her Quiet” Secures International Distribution, Sheds Light on Xinjiang Crisis
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Beta Cinema has acquired international sales rights for “Keep Her Quiet,” a gripping English-language political thriller inspired by the real-life experiences of journalists investigating human rights abuses in Western China. The film, starring Tsar Amir, Jonathan Pryce, and Amir El-Masry, is poised to generate significant discussion at the upcoming Berlinale’s European Film Market, running February 12-18.
A Journalist’s Perilous Investigation
The narrative centers on a Washington D.C.-based journalist, portrayed by Amir, whose relentless investigation into unexplained disappearances in Western China places both her and her family in grave danger. The film draws direct inspiration from the courageous work of investigative reporters who brought international attention to the ongoing crisis and incorporates numerous firsthand accounts from survivors of China’s controversial “re-education” program in the Xinjiang region.
A Unique Collaborative Vision
“Keep Her Quiet” marks the second feature film from UK-German director Franz Böhm, who previously garnered acclaim – and a Bafta award in 2025 – for his Ukraine War-themed short film, “Rock Paper Scissors.” That short also received recognition from the Academy Awards, appearing on the shortlist for Best Live Action Short at the 98th Academy Awards.
Adding a deeply personal dimension to the project is co-director Suli Kurban, a Munich-based Uyghur filmmaker who fled political persecution in Xinjiang with her family in 1999. Kurban brings her lived experiences and cultural heritage to the film, building on her previous documentary work, including “Run, Don’t Walk” (2014) and the short film “Life: Leben.”
Stellar Cast and International Production
Alongside Amir, Pryce, and El-Masry, the cast includes rising Uyghur talent Bahargul Basco, as well as established actors Hiftu Quasem (“Something in the Water”) and Eleanor Matsuura (“Wonder Woman,” “Spooks”).
The film is a truly international collaboration, produced by Johannes Schubert of German-Austrian production company Schubert – known for titles like “Rose” and “Club Zero” – and supported by Switzerland’s Contrast Film, Sweden’s Platform Production (the team behind “Triangle of Sadness,” “Force Majeure,” and “The Square”), and Austria’s Panama Film (“The Theory of Everything”). Executive producers include Malte Grunert, Anita Gou, Caroline Clark, and Kristina Börjeson.
“The film combines creative authenticity with escalating urgency, unfolding as a classic high-stakes political thriller driven by fearless journalism and the real-world dangers of confronting oppression,” Schubert stated in a company release.
Distribution Plans and Market Launch
Currently in post-production, “Keep Her Quiet” is already confirmed for distribution across German-speaking territories through Pandora Film (Germany), Filmladen Filmverleih (Austria), and Filmcoopi (Switzerland). Beta Cinema will officially launch international sales at the Berlinale’s European Film Market next month, positioning the film as a key title for buyers seeking impactful and timely political thrillers.
