Bleecker Street has secured U.S. distribution rights to director Sebastián Lelio’s drama “Disobedience,” starring Rachel Weisz, Rachel McAdams, and Alessandro Nivola.

Based on the book by Naomi Alderman, the film had its world premiere at the Toronto International Film Festival. The Chilean filmmaker directed from a script he co-wrote with Rebecca Lenkiewicz.

The film follows Weisz’ expatriate character as she returns from New York after the death of her estranged rabbi father to the Orthodox Jewish community in North London where she grew up. Once back at home, she stirs up controversy when she shows an interest in a childhood friend, played by McAdams.

Variety‘s Andrew Barker gave the film a strong review: “Slower and more deliberate than some of his recent work, though anchored by a remarkably honest and unrestrained sex scene, ‘Disobedience’ may not catapult Lelio beyond the arthouse world, but it’s yet another triumph in what’s shaping up to be a major career.”

“Sebastian has captured, with real authenticity, the universality of love and faith, and the strength and sacrifice it takes to fight for what you believe in,” said Andrew Karpen, CEO of Bleecker Street.

Producing are Frida Torresblanco for Braven Films, Ed Guiney for Element Pictures, and Weisz for LC6 Productions. Film4 developed the film and co-financed with FilmNation Entertainment who is also handling international sales.

Executive producers are Rose Garnett and Daniel Battsek for Film4, Ben Browning and Glen Basner for FilmNation Entertainment, Andrew Lowe for Element Pictures, as well as Eric Laufer and Giovanna Randall.

The deal was negotiated between Kent Sanderson and Avy Eschenasy on behalf of Bleecker Street, WME Global and FilmNation Entertainment.