Paul Rudd and Jeremy Sisto are reuniting for the indie film Rain Reign, based on the bestselling novel by Ann M. Martin. This collaboration marks their first project together since the iconic 1995 comedy Clueless. Production for Rain Reign has recently concluded, and it features rising star Felice Kakaletris in the leading role.
The film tells the poignant story of Rose Howard, portrayed by Kakaletris, a neurodivergent 12-year-old girl. Rose struggles to navigate life under the care of her unpredictable single father, played by Sisto. When a devastating superstorm strikes their town, Rose is forced to abandon her routines as she embarks on a desperate search for her missing dog, Rain. With the support of her uncle, portrayed by Rudd, Rose faces a journey that tests her resilience and forces her to make challenging decisions between her own needs and what is right.
Creative Team and Insightful Themes
Burke Rossa makes her feature directorial debut with Rain Reign, having developed the project alongside producers Nikki Silver and Julie Rudd. In a statement to Deadline, Rossa expressed her inspiration for adapting Martin’s novel: “What moved me about Ann’s novel… was the Howard family’s journey toward breaking cycles of trauma and finding hope in hardship. The story’s heart lies in how, even in our darkest moments, the most profound acts of heroism are often the most quiet acts of kindness.”
The film also features an impressive supporting cast, including Gretchen Mol, Kirsten Fitzgerald, C.J. Wilson, Mary Stuart Masterson, and Jeremy Davidson. The production is a collaboration between A With a Twist/Long Odds/Rainbow Goat Production, City Hill Arts, and Ley Line Entertainment.
Production and Distribution Details
Producers include Silver, Julie Rudd, and Jonathan Lim and Robin Jonas from City Hill Arts, which is the majority financier. The executive producers are a diverse group, including Robert Smigel, Michelle Smigel, Colleen deVeer, Anita Bhatia, Tim Headington, and others. The film’s casting was managed by Avy Kaufman, and the UTA Independent Film Group is handling worldwide sales.
Kakaletris has gained recognition from her performances in projects like The Crowded Room, while Sisto is known for his roles in Six Feet Under and FBI. Rudd, who recently starred in two films for A24, will soon appear in several upcoming projects, including Anaconda and Avengers: Doomsday.
The film’s heartfelt narrative, combined with the notable talents involved, positions Rain Reign as a significant addition to the landscape of independent cinema, appealing to audiences with its themes of resilience and compassion.
