Relativity Media has acquired the North American distribution rights to Desert Dancer, starring Freida Pinto, Reece Ritchie and Tom Cullen.

The drama is based on the true story of Afshin Ghaffarian (Reece Ritchie), who dreams of becoming a dancer in Iran, where dancing is strictly forbidden. The story is set in 2009, against the backdrop of protests that sparked a movement towards more personal freedoms in the country.

Here's what Relativity Media president Tucker Tooley had to say about the film.

"Desert Dancer is an important movie that was exceptionally made, and we are proud to be a part of it."

Richard Raymond makes his directorial debut with the drama, which was written by Jon Croker (The Woman in Black: Angel of Death). The director is also producing alongside Pippa Cross, Izabella Miko and Luis Astorquia. Relativity Media is eyeing a 2014 release.