Kino Lorber has announced the upcoming release of The Empire, a slapstick space opera from director Bruno Dumont, who earned the Silver Bear Jury Prize at the 2024 Berlinale for this film. Opening at New York’s IFC Center on March 7, the film will expand to additional cities soon after.

Set in a quiet fishing village in Northern France, The Empire follows the birth of a special child who triggers a hidden conflict between two extraterrestrial forces, One and Zero. These opposing powers—one seeking harmony and the other sowing chaos—work to influence humanity while awaiting their final showdown. Starring Fabrice Luchini, Camille Cottin, and Anamaria Varolomei, the movie blends sci-fi elements reminiscent of “Star Wars” with the playful humor of “Spaceballs,” all filtered through Dumont’s distinctive approach to storytelling.