HBO Documentary Films has secured the U.S. broadcast rights to the feature documentary ME @THE ZOO, an official selection of the 2012 Sundance Film Festival, U.S. Documentary Competition, it was announced today. Directed by Chris Moukarbel and Valerie Veatch, ME @THE ZOO is an in-depth exploration of the new phenomenon of internet celebrity. Josh Braun at Submarine negotiated the deal with HBO Documentary Films.
“Throughout its history, HBO Documentary Films has shown a dedication to intelligent, thought-provoking content,” said Moukarbel and Veatch in a joint statement. “We couldn’t be happier that ME @THE ZOO has found the perfect home at HBO.”
Focusing on the story of Chris Crocker, the video blogger who exploded into the international spotlight after his infamous “Leave Britney Alone” YouTube declaration, ME @THE ZOO explores how video sharing and social platforms have shaped the way people tell their stories and mediate their lives.
Memento Films International is handling international rights for the documentary.
This film marks the directorial debut for both Moukarbel and Veatch. ME @THE ZOO was produced by Nicholas Shumaker and Jack Turner; executive produced by Vin Farrell, Jim McKay and Michael Stipe of C-Hundred Film Corp., and Rachel Grady.
