MPI nabs 18-year-old helmer's pic

MPI Media Group has acquired all United States privileges to vampire comedy "My Sucky Teen Romance," the 3rd feature from 18 year-old author-director Emily Hagins -- and her first to have a theatrical distribution deal. The little distributor is presently planning for a spring 2012 theatrical release for that pic, which follows several teens whose normal romantic clumsiness becomes compounded once they uncover that a few of the kids they have just met in a sci-fi convention are vampires of the underworld. The youthful cast includes Devin Bonnee (NBC's "Chase"), Tina Rodriguez ("Inglourious Basterds") and Lauren Lee (Hagins' "The Retelling"), in addition to beginners Elaine Hurt and Patrick Delgado. Hagins, a filmmaker from Austin, Texas, whose work continues to be championed by Ain't It Awesome News founder Harry Knowles, made her feature directorial debut at 12 using the horror pic "Virus." The distribution deal was discussed by MPI's professional Vice president Greg Newman and Deena Kalai of PLLC. "The excitement over 'My Sucky Teen Romance' began in the SXSW festival, and that we feel fortunate to take part in exactly what is a breakthrough for Emily Hagins," stated Newman. "We anticipate presenting Emily and her wonderful film towards the United States audience. She's amazing filmmaking instincts and vision, and that we anticipate excellent achievements from her within the a long time.Inch MPI's recent original productions include "Home of the Demon," "Stake Land" and "The Innkeepers." Contact Shaun Sneider at shaun.sneider@variety.com