Spanish distribution outfit Alta Films has picked up theatrical rights for Spain to Stephen Frears' Berlin competition title Cheri, starring Michelle Pfeiffer.

The deal was done at Berlin between Alta and Pathe International who hold sales rights to the film. A release date is yet to be confirmed.

Frears' drama Cheri is based on the novel by Colette and adapted for the screen by scriptwriter Christopher Hampton. It delves into Parisian life in the 1920s with Michelle Pfeiffer as an aging courtesan who has an affair with 19 year old Fred Peloux, also known as Cheri (Rupert Friend). Cheri is also the son of Pfeiffer's enemy, Charlotte Peloux (Kathy Bates).

Miramax Films has North American distribution rights to the film which is produced by BKL Productions, MMC Independent and Pathe Renn Productions.