Utopia Secures Release for “The Good Half” Starring Nick Jonas

Robert Schwartzman’s Comedy Drama Set for Summer Theatrical Debut with Special Screenings and Q&A Events

Utopia, the production company co-founded by director Robert Schwartzman, has acquired the rights to “The Good Half,” a comedic drama featuring Nick Jonas in the lead role. The film is slated for a theatrical release this summer, with special preview screenings scheduled in partnership with Fathom Events.

Scheduled for July 23 and July 25, these preview screenings will take place in 900 theaters across North America. Audiences attending these showings will have the opportunity to engage in a virtual Q&A session with Nick Jonas and director Robert Schwartzman, moderated by “Mad Men” actor Kiernan Shipka. While the initial screenings are confirmed, plans for a wider theatrical release are yet to be finalized.

“The Good Half” made its debut last June at the Tribeca Festival, where it garnered attention from distributors. Notably, Schwartzman produced the film independently before Utopia’s acquisition nearly a year later, underscoring the project’s journey to the big screen.

In the film, Jonas portrays Renn, a writer who returns to his hometown of Cleveland for his mother’s funeral. As Renn reconnects with his family, including his high-strung sister portrayed by Brittany Snow and his well-meaning father played by Matt Walsh, and encounters new acquaintances such as a love interest played by Alexandra Shipp, he confronts his past in a deeply personal journey. This role marks a departure for Jonas, known for his earlier roles in Disney Channel’s “Camp Rock” franchise, showcasing his versatility as an actor.

Director Robert Schwartzman expressed his excitement about the film’s upcoming release, stating, “It’s a filmmaker’s dream to hit the big screen.” He emphasized the significance of the partnership with Utopia and Fathom Events, which will enable “The Good Half” to reach audiences nationwide.

Schwartzman’s connection with Jonas dates back to 2008 when Jonas Brothers’ band toured with Schwartzman’s band, Rooney. Despite Jonas’s background as a musician, Schwartzman selected him for the role not solely based on his star status but also for their collaborative synergy.

“Obviously, [Nick] is a very talented musician and has done incredible work as an actor,” Schwartzman commented in a previous interview with Variety. “But that initial vibe was there, and the trust of being able to work with someone I could really collaborate with openly, who would be honest with me when I needed the honesty back.”