Tessa Blake's 'If I Tell You' Lands Theatrical Distribution from Suncatcher Productions
The family drama starring Carol Kane and based on Lisa O'Donnell's novel 'Closed Doors' is set to hit theaters in August.

“In making ‘If I Tell You,’ I was driven to bring the beauty, suspense and emotional depth of Lisa O’Donnell’s novel ‘Closed Doors’ to the screen.”
- Director
- Tessa Blake
- Starring
- Carol Kane, Etienne Kellici, Allison Miller
- Genre
- Family Drama
- Where to Watch
- Theaters
Suncatcher Productions has acquired the theatrical distribution rights to the family drama “If I Tell You,” according to a report from Variety. The film, directed by Tessa Blake, is scheduled for a theatrical release in August.
Who is in the cast?
The film stars Carol Kane (“Annie Hall”), Etienne Kellici (“Ready or Not”), and Allison Miller (“13 Reasons Why”). The ensemble also includes Bill Heck (“The Leftovers”), Christopher Jackson (“Hamilton”), and Carmela Zumbado (“You”).
What is the film about?
Adapted from Lisa O’Donnell’s novel “Closed Doors,” the story follows a 12-year-old boy who attempts to solve a mystery while navigating the impact of secrets kept by the adults in his life. The film was previously titled “Boundary Waters.”
In a statement, director Tessa Blake explained her motivation. “In making ‘If I Tell You,’ I was driven to bring the beauty, suspense and emotional depth of Lisa O’Donnell’s novel ‘Closed Doors’ to the screen. Through the eyes of a boy on the precipice of adolescence, the film explores the fragile space between certainty and mystery, inviting us to confront the complicated truth — that justice is an illusion while our connection to each other endures.”
Producer and co-writer Jennifer Manocherian also shared her thoughts. “When I first read Lisa O’Donnell’s exquisite novel ‘Closed Doors,’ I immediately envisioned it as a film. While it explores themes that are often depicted on screen, what struck me was the story’s unique perspective through the eyes of a young boy trying to make sense of a complicated adult world,” she said. “Tessa and I were committed to preserving the novel’s emotional honesty, suspense and humanity.”
The project marks Blake’s feature directorial debut. It was adapted for the screen by Jennifer Manocherian and Blake, with Manocherian of Dog Lives Productions and Erin Mae Miller of Ignite Studio producing.
Frequently Asked Questions
What book is 'If I Tell You' based on?
The film is based on Lisa O’Donnell’s novel titled “Closed Doors.” The story centers on a 12-year-old boy navigating adult secrets as he tries to solve a mystery.
Who is directing the film?
Tessa Blake is directing “If I Tell You.” This project marks her debut as a feature film director.
When is the movie coming out?
According to the report, “If I Tell You” is scheduled to be released in theaters in August.
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