The Berlin-set thriller A Prayer For The Dying, starring Johnny Flynn and John C. Reilly, has secured a North American distribution deal with Anton and New Europe. The film, which blends suspense and psychological intrigue against the backdrop of Berlin’s shadowy underworld, marks a significant collaboration between the two actors, bringing together Flynn’s rising intensity and Reilly’s seasoned gravitas.
Set after the Civil War, A Prayer for the Dying follows war veteran Jacob Hansen, whose hope for a new life in Friendship, Wisconsin, soon turns into a nightmare. As a deadly disease and a raging wildfire bring chaos, Jacob—serving as sheriff, undertaker, and pastor—must struggle to save his town, his family, and his soul. The film is written and directed by Dara Van Dusen and stars Johnny Flynn and John C. Reilly. It is based on Stewart O’Nan’s 1999 novel of the same name.
Johnny Flynn stars as Jacob Hansen, an officer tasked with disaster response, while Oscar nominee John C. Reilly portrays the town’s doctor. The ensemble cast also features Kristine Kujath Thorp as Marta Hansen, Gustav Lindh as Harlow, Hilton Pelser as Chase, Andrew Whipp as Fenton, and Daniel Weyman as Old Meyer.
The production of A Prayer For The Dying brings together an impressive international collaboration, serving as a co-production between Norway, Greece, the United Kingdom, and Sweden.
Quiver Co-Presidents Berry Meyerowitz and Jeff Sackman shared, “We were immediately drawn to the emotional precision and quiet power of A Prayer for the Dying.” “Dara Van Dusen has crafted a striking adaptation that honors the soul of the novel while introducing a singular cinematic voice to the screen. Anchored by extraordinary performances from Johnny Flynn and John C. Reilly, the film is both intimate and resonant, and we’re thrilled to help introduce it to audiences—starting with Berlinale next month and leading into a theatrical release later this year.”
On behalf of Quiver, TJ Smith and Larry Greenberg negotiated the deal, with Louis Balsan and Jan Naszewski (New Europe Film) negotiating on behalf of the production. The film has been chosen for inclusion in the Perspectives section of the 2026 Berlinale, a strand dedicated to showcasing debut features from emerging filmmakers.