Votiv is underway with developing a feature adaptation of the horror-comedy novel “Patricia Wants to Cuddle,” the acclaimed debut fiction from GLAAD Media Award winner Samantha Allen. Sophia Takal (Always Shine, Black Christmas) is set to direct from the script she co-wrote with Lawrence Michael Levine (Black Bear). Votiv’s Brent Stiefel, Justin Lothrop, and Tommy Bertelsen are producing for Votiv. UTA Independent Film Group is representing the sales rights.
Patricia Wants to Cuddle follows the final four contestants on a reality TV dating show as they arrive on a remote island in the Pacific Northwest, prepared for another week of sleep deprivation, invasive interviews, and salacious drama. Each has her own reason for joining ‘The Catch’ – brand sponsorships, followers, even love – but none are prepared for Patricia, a misunderstood local living alone in the island’s dense woods. When the cast and crew finally encounter her on the island’s highest peak, they realize that survival, not romance, may be the real prize. A sharp satire of American media culture, the novel blends slasher thrills, queer romance, and last-girl-standing suspense.
“We were immediately captivated by ‘Patricia Wants to Cuddle’s’ darkly funny, inventive take on horror and sharp commentary on society and media culture,” said Brent Stiefel and Justin Lothrop from Votiv. “We’re especially eager to amplify Sophia’s vision and bring Patricia’s world to life in a way that’s both socially resonant and bold.”
Sophia Takal, shared: “Patricia Wants to Cuddle offers a unique opportunity to explore the tension between our civilized personas and our wilder, more authentic selves through a horror lens. I couldn’t be more thrilled to adapt it for the screen with Samantha, Votiv and, of course, the most talented guy in Hollywood, Lawrence Michael Levine.”
“I’ve always wanted to find a team who can honor ‘Patricia’ while truly making her their baby,” said Samantha Allen. “Sophia, Lawrence, and Votiv understand what makes the novel unique without being afraid to improve on the foundation.”
