Freestyle Acquires Crime Comedy “Mooch” as Artios Awards Schedule Announced
According to CinemaDrame News Agency, Freestyle Digital Media, owned by Byron Allen, has acquired the distribution rights to the crime comedy “Mooch,” written, directed by, and starring Jeff Ryan. The film is scheduled to be released on digital platforms on August 14.
Jeff Ryan, who retained the theatrical distribution rights through First-Names Films, plans to roll out the movie through a nationwide tour featuring single-night screenings in collaboration with Emo Night, complete with live performances by artists featured on the soundtrack. In a statement, the filmmakers noted that this release model redefines the theatrical experience—combining a film screening with a live concert to create a reunion-style event for a generation of fans of event-driven music tours.
Featuring an exclusive emo-style soundtrack, “Mooch” follows Shane, the oldest ball boy at a local country club, who decides to gather intelligence and spy for the glamorous owner of a New Jersey nightclub. The film’s ensemble cast includes Scott Cohen, Caterina Tannenbaum, Genevieve Angelson / Genevieve Carr, Molly Brown, Ashby Gentry, Will Chase, Louis Cancelmi, Olli Haaskivi, Natalie Roy, and Oscar Williams.
In other industry news, the Casting Society (CSA) has announced its new board of directors for the 2026–2027 term, alongside the schedule and timeline for the 42nd Artios Awards. The Artios Awards ceremony will take place simultaneously in Beverly Hills, New York, and London on February 18, 2027, honoring outstanding achievements in casting across film, television, theater, and commercials.
According to the released schedule, the first period for submissions will run from August 3 to August 13, with the initial list of nominees set to be announced on October 7. The second submission window will be open from October 26 to November 5, with the final list of nominees to be revealed on December 16.
