Miramax Films has acquired North American distribution rights from High Point Films to the Dutch local blockbuster Twin Sisters (De Tweeling) directed by Ben Sombogaart.

Based on the best-selling novel by Tessa de Loo, the film's set in 1920s Europe and follows two sisters torn apart after their parents die who struggle to reconcile during World War II.

Emil Elmer, UK-based manager of acquisitions, brought the project into Miramax and the deal was announced by Agnes Mentre, executive vice president of acquisitions and co-productions.

Barry Littman, vice president of business and legal affairs, and Mentre negotiated the agreement on behalf of Miramax. Ronald de Neef and Carey Fitzgerald negotiated the agreement on behalf of High Point Films.

Twin Sisters was one of the key reasons why the Netherlands enjoyed a healthy box office jump of 14% during the first quarter of 2003. As of April, Sombogaart's film is the third highest earner in the territory so far this year behind only The Lord Of The Rings: The Two Towers and Die Another Day.

Twin Sisters has taken $4.1m (Euros 3.8m) since opening in 2002.

The film was scripted by Marieke Van Der Pol and stars Thekla Reuten, Nadja Uhl, Ellen Vogel, Gudrun Okras, Jeroen Spitzenberger and Roman Knizka. It is produced by Anton Smit and Hanneke Niens.