LGBTQ+ Rom-Com ‘Before I Do’ Boards Worldwide Sales
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Rapt Films has secured worldwide sales rights for the LGBTQ+ rom-com “Before I Do,” which stars Cole Doman and Michael Hsu Rosen, according to a report by Variety. The film, which premiered at the 2023 Tribeca Film Festival, is set to expand its global distribution through the studio’s international network, marking a significant step for the project’s reach.
The deal was confirmed by Rapt Films’ head of acquisitions, who stated the studio “saw strong potential in the film’s authentic storytelling and its appeal to younger, diverse audiences.” Variety cited internal documents from Rapt Films as the basis for the report. The film, directed by Maya Erskine, is described as a “modern love story” that explores themes of identity and connection within the LGBTQ+ community.
Doman, known for his role in the HBO series “Euphoria,” and Rosen, a rising actor and director, both expressed enthusiasm for the project. In a statement shared with Variety, Doman said, “This story resonates deeply with me, and I’m thrilled to see it find a platform that values its message.” Rosen added, “It’s rare to work on a film that balances humor and heart so seamlessly.”
The film’s inclusion in Rapt Films’ catalog follows the studio’s recent focus on indie and genre films, including the 2024 thriller “The Silent Hour” and the coming-of-age drama “Summer of ‘99.” Rapt Films’ CEO, Sarah Lin, emphasized the studio’s commitment to “amplifying underrepresented voices in cinema,” a sentiment echoed in the film’s production notes.
“Before I Do” was produced by Flicker Films, a boutique studio specializing in LGBTQ+ narratives. The company’s founder, James Carter, noted the film’s significance in “challenging mainstream media’s often narrow portrayals of queer life.” The project also received backing from the Human Rights Campaign’s film fund, which supports stories that promote LGBTQ+ visibility.
The film’s release strategy remains unclear, though Variety reported that Rapt Films is exploring streaming platforms and limited theatrical screenings. A representative for the studio declined to comment on specific plans, stating, “We’re evaluating all options to ensure the film reaches the widest possible audience.”
Doman and Rosen have both been vocal advocates for LGBTQ+ representation in entertainment. Doman, who came out as gay in 2021, has used his platform to highlight issues facing queer youth. Rosen, who directed the 2022 short film “Paper Hearts,” has similarly focused on stories centered on marginalized communities.
The film’s narrative, which follows two strangers who form a bond while planning a wedding, has been praised for its “nuanced characters and relatable conflicts” by critics at the Tribeca Film Festival. A review in The Hollywood Reporter noted, “Erskine’s direction avoids clichés, offering a fresh perspective on love and self-discovery.”
Rapt Films’ acquisition of the film aligns with broader industry trends toward diversifying content. According to a 2025 report by the Motion Picture Association, films with LGBTQ+ themes saw a 22% increase in box office revenue compared to the previous year. The report also highlighted a growing demand for stories that reflect “the complexity of queer experiences.”
The deal underscores the increasing commercial viability of LGBTQ+ films, which have historically faced challenges in securing wide distribution. “Before I Do” joins a growing list of projects, including the 2024 film “Love, Simon,” that have successfully navigated both critical and commercial success.
While the film’s exact release date has not been announced, its inclusion in Rapt Films’ lineup suggests a strategic push for awards consideration. The studio has previously secured Oscar nominations for films like “The Lost Children” (2022) and “Midnight in Paris” (2023).
For now, fans of Doman and Rosen will have to wait for further updates. The actors’ representatives have not commented on the film’s future beyond Variety’s report.
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Production Context and Industry Trends
“Before I Do” was shot in 2022 across New York and Los Angeles, with a budget reported to be around $5 million. The film’s production team included cinematographer Lena Kim, who previously worked on the 2023 indie hit “The Last Light,” and editor Jordan Lee, known for his work on the 2024 documentary “Queer Voices.”
The project’s focus on LGBTQ+ themes comes amid a broader shift in Hollywood. A 2025 study by the Williams Institute found that 78% of LGBTQ+ adults believe media representation has improved in the past decade, though 62% still feel “underrepresented” in mainstream content. The study also noted that films with LGBTQ+ leads saw a 30% increase in audience engagement compared to heterosexual-led projects.
Rapt Films’ decision to acquire the film reflects this evolving landscape. The studio has previously partnered with LGBTQ+ advocacy groups, including the GLAAD Media Institute, to ensure accurate representation in its releases. A 2024 press release from Rapt Films stated, “