Ahead of Cannes, UK distributor Optimum has picked up two new films: they are Sharon Maguire's Incendiary and Julian Gilbey's Rise Of The Footsoldier.

Optimum acquired Incendiary, a Film4-backed project, from producer Archer Street Films (Capitol is handling sales in Cannes). The project stars Michelle Williams, Ewan McGregor and Matthew Macfadyen in the story of a woman whose life is turn apart after a suicide bombing at a football stadium. The film is still shooting in London.

Carnaby Films is selling Rise Of the Footsoldier, which stars Ricci Harnett, Roland Manookian and Frank Harper in the story of notorious east London gangster Carlton Leach.

Optimum's other recent acquisitions include In The Valley Of Elah, Rocket Science and Smother.