Hulu’s ‘Palm Springs’ Was The Most Expensive Sundance Film Ever By 69 Cents

Hulu’s new movie “Palm Springs” made headlines long before it debuted on the streaming service Friday. It was well-received when it debuted at Sundance Film Festival in January, and the rights to the film pulled in more money than any other movie in Sundance history.

Hulu and distributor Neon confirmed in January that they had broken the record. Previously, slave rebellion drama “The Birth of a Nation” held the title of most expensive Sundance movie at $17.5 million. “Palm Springs,” a “Groundhog Day”-esque comedy, came in just past that at $17,500,000.69. Yes, the record was broken by 69 cents.

Though it didn’t get to theaters as intended, Hulu knows they have the attention of star/producer Andy Samberg’s fan base already. The streaming platform already carries “Brooklyn Nine-Nine,” “Saturday Night Live” and the movie “Popstar: Never Stop Never Stopping.” He also produces Hulu’s original comedy “PEN15.”

“Hulu insisted," Samberg jokingly told GQ of the price point. “I can't remember who exactly suggested it, but I'm pretty sure it was Hulu.”

“Palm Springs,” directed by Max Barbakow and written by Andy Siara, takes place during Abe (Tyler Hoechlin, “Supergirl”) and Tala’s (Camila Mendes, “Riverdale”), but it’s their guests who are the stars. Samberg’s Nyles is a wedding guest who has been reliving this day over and over. Eventually, maid of honor Sarah (Cristin Milioti, “Black Mirror”) starts reliving the day along with him.

The film also stars J.K. Simmons (“Defending Jacob”), Meredith Hagner (“Horse Girl”) and Peter Gallagher (“Zoey’s Extraordinary Playlist”).

Samberg told GQ that the script appealed to him because it mimicked reality. “It was well-written, and mixed with real comedy. Which, for me, is how life feels. It's miserable and terrifying and wonderful and beautiful,” he chuckled. “And in the darkest moments, comedy rises out of it.”

“Palm Springs” is now available on Hulu.