TLA Releasing has acquired North American non-theatrical, video, and select TV rights from Unitel Pictures International to Filipino director Aureaus Solito's The Blossoming Of Maximo Oliveros.

The distributor plans a DVD release on Aug 28 on the story of a gay pre-teen growing up with petty thieves in the slums of Manila who is offered the chance of a better life when he befriends a police officer. Nathan Lopez and J R Valentin star.

'Director Solito has crafted a natural, vibrant and sweet film about a young boy's journey into adulthood while maintaining an honest, positive portrayal of the challenges in one's quest for a better life,' TLA Releasing's director of acquisitions Richard Wolf said.

Wolf negotiated the deal with United Pictures International's head of international sales Cindy Sison on behalf of the film-maker.

The film received its North American premiere at Sundance 2006 and was the Philippines' official foreign language Academy Awards submission this year.