Sundance Channel gives 'Monsters' a chance

NEW YORK, Dec. 15 (UPI) -- The independent film "Four-Eyed Monsters" is set to get full U.S. theatrical release thanks to winning this year's Sundance Channel Audience Award.

The film from directors Susan Buice and Arin Crumley was given the award as part of indieWIRE's "Undiscovered Gems" film series and in addition to its theatrical release, "Monsters" will also soon enjoy a TV premiere on the Sundance Channel, a release from Emerging Pictures said.

The dark and quirky film also was recognized with two Independent Spirit Award nominations. It tells the story of a man and a woman who attempt to form a romance online without ever speaking in person to one another.

Eugene Hernandez, the editor of indieWIRE, said that through its affiliates, the 9-year-old film series helps launch films like "Monsters" into the public's eye.

"With so many hurdles facing quality independent, foreign language and documentary filmmakers in securing theatrical distribution, we are thrilled to continue working with The New York Times, Emerging Pictures and Sundance Channel on this growing showcase of new films. We hope this collaboration and the series gives these new films the support they deserve," he said.