The Chicago-made independent feature Wrong Numbers is set to make its global debut this September on two major airlines, bringing the locally produced film to passengers aboard more than 1,600 aircraft worldwide.
Written by Frederick Mensch and directed by Chicago-based filmmaker Duane Edwards, Wrong Numbers is a 90-minute romantic drama that explores the unexpected connection between two strangers brought together by a blind date gone wrong. The film stars David Kelsey and Emily Hall and was shot over six days at locations throughout Chicago.
What ‘Wrong Numbers’ has done right
Duane Edwards, who began his career in IT, directed and produced Wrong Numbers and financed it independently. The film was produced with a modest budget and relied on a local cast and crew.
Since its release, Wrong Numbers has gained momentum on the film festival circuit. David Kelsey won the Best Actor Award at the Beverly Hills Film Festival, Emily Hall won Best Actress at the Film Freeway Festival, and the film was an official selection at the Chicago Indie Film Awards, among others. Critics have lauded its authenticity, describing it as ‘unpredictable and authentic,’ praising the lead duo’s chemistry and Edwards’s pacing. It has received further favorable critical attention, including a 93% rating on Rotten Tomatoes.
The next chapter in the film’s journey comes via in-flight entertainment. Starting in September, Wrong Numbers will be available to passengers on two major airlines, significantly expanding the film’s reach to an international audience.
A Global Platform for Independent Film
Placement on commercial airline entertainment systems is a growing avenue for independent filmmakers to gain worldwide exposure. Distribution agreements are typically arranged through third-party content distributors that license films to airlines. These platforms look for content that appeals to a wide range of viewers, can be easily localized for international audiences, and meets technical standards for in-flight screening.
For independent films like Wrong Numbers, in-flight distribution offers an opportunity to be seen by millions of travelers, including potential buyers, producers, and critics. It’s a valuable addition to a film’s overall release strategy, especially for projects that may not receive wide theatrical or streaming distribution.
Edwards is already in development on his next feature, Laura Louise, again partnering with screenwriter Frederick Mensch, with plans to film in Chicago this fall. Reel Chicago previously reported on the new project, continuing Edwards’ commitment to telling intimate, character-driven stories grounded in the city.
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