Exclusive: Sony’s label Stage 6 Films has hired Elizabeth Grave and Tamara Woolfork as Svp of Production and Development and Svp of Business Affairs respectively, under the studio’s Worldwide Acquisitions division. The announcement today was made by Stage 6 co-heads Michael Helfand and Joe Matukewicz.
In a joint statement, Helfand and Matukewicz said, “Tamara and Elizabeth are two powerhouse executives whose prolific experience and knowledge fully supports our goal to be allies to independent filmmakers in diverse theatrical storytelling, both large and small.”
Prior to her new post at Sony, Grave served as Svp of Production and Development at Lost City, an independent production company and financier, where she produced the Netflix original film Desperados, starring Nasim Pedrad, Anna Camp, and Lamorne Morris. Her other producing credits include Scary Stories to Tell in the Dark, directed by Andre Ovredal from a story by Guillermo del Toro, as well as Tanya Wexler’s Buffaloed,...
In a joint statement, Helfand and Matukewicz said, “Tamara and Elizabeth are two powerhouse executives whose prolific experience and knowledge fully supports our goal to be allies to independent filmmakers in diverse theatrical storytelling, both large and small.”
Prior to her new post at Sony, Grave served as Svp of Production and Development at Lost City, an independent production company and financier, where she produced the Netflix original film Desperados, starring Nasim Pedrad, Anna Camp, and Lamorne Morris. Her other producing credits include Scary Stories to Tell in the Dark, directed by Andre Ovredal from a story by Guillermo del Toro, as well as Tanya Wexler’s Buffaloed,...
- 10/22/2019
- by Amanda N'Duka
- Deadline Film + TV
The team at Sony Pictures Worldwide Acquisitions will get a lot of mileage out of their tuxedos at this year’s Toronto International Film Festival. Michael Helfand and Joe Matukewicz, the division’s two co-heads, are hitting Canada with eight films in tow — a collection that includes Oscar-hopefuls such as “The Front Runner,” “If Beale Street Could Talk,” and “Wildlife.”
Sony Pictures Worldwide Acquisitions will focus on distributing these largely indie pictures in foreign territories. They usually leave the U.S. release to other studios. That may be part of the reason that, for all its activity, the division remains something of an enigma to most people.
“We’re a little under the radar,” said Matukewicz. “People sometimes don’t understand what we do because all our movies are different. No one is alike and we have a very diverse slate in terms of budget range or genres.”
They may not be a household name,...
Sony Pictures Worldwide Acquisitions will focus on distributing these largely indie pictures in foreign territories. They usually leave the U.S. release to other studios. That may be part of the reason that, for all its activity, the division remains something of an enigma to most people.
“We’re a little under the radar,” said Matukewicz. “People sometimes don’t understand what we do because all our movies are different. No one is alike and we have a very diverse slate in terms of budget range or genres.”
They may not be a household name,...
- 9/8/2018
- by Brent Lang
- Variety Film + TV
Studio plans autumn release.
Sony Pictures has acquired worldwide rights to Bron Studios’ The Front Runner directed by Jason Reitman and starring Hugh Jackman, Vera Farmiga and J.K. Simmons.
The studio plans an autumn release in the awards season corridor timed to coincide with the mid-term Us elections.
The Front Runner chronicles the rise and fall of former Democratic frontrunner Gary Hart, who was considered a shoo-in for the 1988 Democratic presidential nomination when his campaign was derailed by his affair with Donna Rice.
The film also stars Mamoudou Athie, Josh Brener, Kaitlyn Dever, Tommy Dewey, Molly Ephraim, Spencer Garrett, Ari Graynor,...
Sony Pictures has acquired worldwide rights to Bron Studios’ The Front Runner directed by Jason Reitman and starring Hugh Jackman, Vera Farmiga and J.K. Simmons.
The studio plans an autumn release in the awards season corridor timed to coincide with the mid-term Us elections.
The Front Runner chronicles the rise and fall of former Democratic frontrunner Gary Hart, who was considered a shoo-in for the 1988 Democratic presidential nomination when his campaign was derailed by his affair with Donna Rice.
The film also stars Mamoudou Athie, Josh Brener, Kaitlyn Dever, Tommy Dewey, Molly Ephraim, Spencer Garrett, Ari Graynor,...
- 5/11/2018
- by Jeremy Kay
- ScreenDaily
Sony Pictures has acquired worldwide rights to Jason Reitman’s “The Front Runner,” starring Hugh Jackman as presidential candidate Gary Hart, along with Vera Farmiga and J.K. Simmons.
The studio, which made the announcement Thursday, said it plans a fall release timed to coincide with award season and election coverage.
“The Front Runner” chronicles the rise and fall of Hart, a charismatic U.S. Senator from Colorado, who was considered the frontrunner for the 1988 Democratic presidential nomination when his campaign was sidelined by the story of an extramarital relationship with Donna Rice. In what may have been the first merger of tabloid journalism and political journalism, Hart was forced to drop out of the race.
Reitman said, “Having grown up wandering around the Columbia lot as a kid, it is a particular thrill to bring The ‘Front Runner’ back home to the first studio I can remember. I cannot wait...
The studio, which made the announcement Thursday, said it plans a fall release timed to coincide with award season and election coverage.
“The Front Runner” chronicles the rise and fall of Hart, a charismatic U.S. Senator from Colorado, who was considered the frontrunner for the 1988 Democratic presidential nomination when his campaign was sidelined by the story of an extramarital relationship with Donna Rice. In what may have been the first merger of tabloid journalism and political journalism, Hart was forced to drop out of the race.
Reitman said, “Having grown up wandering around the Columbia lot as a kid, it is a particular thrill to bring The ‘Front Runner’ back home to the first studio I can remember. I cannot wait...
- 5/10/2018
- by Dave McNary
- Variety Film + TV
Sony Pictures has acquired the worldwide distribution rights to “The Front Runner,” a fact-based political thriller directed by Jason Reitman and starring Hugh Jackman as scandal-plagued Sen. Gary Hart, the studio announced Thursday.
Columbia Pictures will release the film this fall, timing it with the November midterm elections.
Based on the book “All the Truth is Out” by political journalist Matt Bai, “The Front Runner” stars Jackman as Gary Hart, the senator from Colorado who was considered the front-runner to win the Democratic nomination for the 1988 presidential election.
Also Read: 'Tully' Film Review: Charlize Theron Is a Real Mother in Bleakly Hilarious Parenthood Tale
But Hart’s hopes were quickly derailed after Miami Herald reporters broke the story of him having an extramarital affair with a young woman named Donna Rice, forcing him to drop out of the race.
“Having grown up wandering around the Columbia lot as a kid, it is a particular thrill to bring The Front Runner back home to the first studio I can remember,” Reitman said in a statement. “I cannot wait for movie goers to see Hugh’s humanist transformation into one of the more complicated political figures of our time.”
Also Read: Will Smith's 'Bad Boys for Life' Resurrected for January 2020 Release
“This often overlooked moment points to the intersection where political journalism and gossip journalism drove into the same lane, and it couldn’t be more timely,” added Gilbert. “We are so proud of this film and the work we’ve been able to do with our partners Jason and Helen.”
Vera Farmiga and J.K. Simmons will also star in the film respectively as Hart’s wife, Lee Hart, and Hart’s campaign adviser Bill Dixon. Sara Paxton will also star in the film as Donna Rice.
Also Read: Latest 'Venom' Movie Trailer Surpasses 'Wonder Woman' Views in First 24 Hours (Exclusive)
Bai and Reitman co-wrote the film with former Hillary Clinton press secretary Jay Carson. Reitman and Helen Estabrook produced the film through their Right of Way Films banner in partnership with Bron Studios’ Aaron Gilbert, who are backed by Creative Wealth Media.
Jon Freedberg, Spwa’s Svp, Content Strategy and Helfand negotiated on behalf of Sony. Bron’s Anjay Nagpal and Matthew Erramouspe of O’Melveny negotiated on behalf of Bron Studios. Endeavor Content and Bloom handled the worldwide sale.
The announcement was made by Michael Helfand and Joe Matukewicz, Co-Heads of Sony Pictures Worldwide Acquisitions, and Aaron L. Gilbert, President & CEO, Bron Studios, which produced and financed the film.
Read original story Hugh Jackman Gary Hart Political Drama ‘The Front Runner’ Acquired by Sony At TheWrap...
Columbia Pictures will release the film this fall, timing it with the November midterm elections.
Based on the book “All the Truth is Out” by political journalist Matt Bai, “The Front Runner” stars Jackman as Gary Hart, the senator from Colorado who was considered the front-runner to win the Democratic nomination for the 1988 presidential election.
Also Read: 'Tully' Film Review: Charlize Theron Is a Real Mother in Bleakly Hilarious Parenthood Tale
But Hart’s hopes were quickly derailed after Miami Herald reporters broke the story of him having an extramarital affair with a young woman named Donna Rice, forcing him to drop out of the race.
“Having grown up wandering around the Columbia lot as a kid, it is a particular thrill to bring The Front Runner back home to the first studio I can remember,” Reitman said in a statement. “I cannot wait for movie goers to see Hugh’s humanist transformation into one of the more complicated political figures of our time.”
Also Read: Will Smith's 'Bad Boys for Life' Resurrected for January 2020 Release
“This often overlooked moment points to the intersection where political journalism and gossip journalism drove into the same lane, and it couldn’t be more timely,” added Gilbert. “We are so proud of this film and the work we’ve been able to do with our partners Jason and Helen.”
Vera Farmiga and J.K. Simmons will also star in the film respectively as Hart’s wife, Lee Hart, and Hart’s campaign adviser Bill Dixon. Sara Paxton will also star in the film as Donna Rice.
Also Read: Latest 'Venom' Movie Trailer Surpasses 'Wonder Woman' Views in First 24 Hours (Exclusive)
Bai and Reitman co-wrote the film with former Hillary Clinton press secretary Jay Carson. Reitman and Helen Estabrook produced the film through their Right of Way Films banner in partnership with Bron Studios’ Aaron Gilbert, who are backed by Creative Wealth Media.
Jon Freedberg, Spwa’s Svp, Content Strategy and Helfand negotiated on behalf of Sony. Bron’s Anjay Nagpal and Matthew Erramouspe of O’Melveny negotiated on behalf of Bron Studios. Endeavor Content and Bloom handled the worldwide sale.
The announcement was made by Michael Helfand and Joe Matukewicz, Co-Heads of Sony Pictures Worldwide Acquisitions, and Aaron L. Gilbert, President & CEO, Bron Studios, which produced and financed the film.
Read original story Hugh Jackman Gary Hart Political Drama ‘The Front Runner’ Acquired by Sony At TheWrap...
- 5/10/2018
- by Jeremy Fuster
- The Wrap
The H Collective has signed a deal with Sony Pictures Worldwide Acquisitions to distribute and market up to four films a year.
The pact comes on the heels of an announcement this week that the L.A.-based studio had partnered with Vin Diesel’s One Race Films to nab rights to the “xXx” franchise. Upcoming films include an untitled horror thriller directed by David Yarovesky, produced by James Gunn, and starring Elizabeth Banks. They are currently in post-production on Christopher Cantwell’s “The Parts You Lose” starring Aaron Paul and Mary Elizabeth Winstead, and recently acquired the rights to Aaron W. Sala’s horror thriller script “The Beast.”
The H Collective CEO Nic Crawley said he was motivated to sign the deal because he had relationships with Josh Greenstein, president of worldwide marketing and distribution and Steve Bersch, president of worldwide acquisitions at Sony Pictures.
“Their teams are the best in class,...
The pact comes on the heels of an announcement this week that the L.A.-based studio had partnered with Vin Diesel’s One Race Films to nab rights to the “xXx” franchise. Upcoming films include an untitled horror thriller directed by David Yarovesky, produced by James Gunn, and starring Elizabeth Banks. They are currently in post-production on Christopher Cantwell’s “The Parts You Lose” starring Aaron Paul and Mary Elizabeth Winstead, and recently acquired the rights to Aaron W. Sala’s horror thriller script “The Beast.”
The H Collective CEO Nic Crawley said he was motivated to sign the deal because he had relationships with Josh Greenstein, president of worldwide marketing and distribution and Steve Bersch, president of worldwide acquisitions at Sony Pictures.
“Their teams are the best in class,...
- 4/18/2018
- by Brent Lang
- Variety Film + TV
Sony Pictures Worldwide Acquisitions will market and distribute up to four H Collective films per year globally. That comes on the heels of yesterday’s news that Vin Diesel and The H Collective had acquired rights to the xXx franchise from Revolution Studios with Diesel back as Xander Cage in the fourth installment with the same director, D.J. Caruso. That will be one of the films that Sony will now likely distribute.
Other pics likely are an untitled horror thriller directed by David Yarovesky and starring Elizabeth Banks with producer James Gunn, Christopher Cantwell’s The Parts You Lose starring Aaron Paul, Scoot McNairy and Mary Elizabeth Winstead which was produced by Mark Johnson under his Gran Via banner.
This comes about six months after distribution veteran Nic Crawley joined The H Collective as CEO. Crawley was previously President of International Marketing and Distribution at Paramount Pictures and before that worked at Disney.
Other pics likely are an untitled horror thriller directed by David Yarovesky and starring Elizabeth Banks with producer James Gunn, Christopher Cantwell’s The Parts You Lose starring Aaron Paul, Scoot McNairy and Mary Elizabeth Winstead which was produced by Mark Johnson under his Gran Via banner.
This comes about six months after distribution veteran Nic Crawley joined The H Collective as CEO. Crawley was previously President of International Marketing and Distribution at Paramount Pictures and before that worked at Disney.
- 4/18/2018
- by Anita Busch
- Deadline Film + TV
Deal calls for marketing, distribution on up to four films a year.
La-based The H Collective has signed a global distribution deal with Sony Pictures Worldwide Acquisitions (Spwa) to distribute and market up to four films per year.
The announcement comes hot on the heels of Tuesday’s announcement that The H Collective and Vin Diesel’s One Race Films have acquired rights to xXx.
The H Collective has several production deals with producers including James Gunn, with whom the company is in production on an untitled horror thriller directed by David Yarovesky and starring Elizabeth Banks.
It is currently...
La-based The H Collective has signed a global distribution deal with Sony Pictures Worldwide Acquisitions (Spwa) to distribute and market up to four films per year.
The announcement comes hot on the heels of Tuesday’s announcement that The H Collective and Vin Diesel’s One Race Films have acquired rights to xXx.
The H Collective has several production deals with producers including James Gunn, with whom the company is in production on an untitled horror thriller directed by David Yarovesky and starring Elizabeth Banks.
It is currently...
- 4/18/2018
- by Jeremy Kay
- ScreenDaily
Christine Birch has resigned her post as Sony Pictures president of domestic marketing after a two-week probe into her workplace behavior, including reports that she smoked marijuana at the office, insiders told TheWrap.
Official word of her resignation came down from Sony’s marketing chief Josh Greenstein on Wednesday, who said Birch originally approached him about resigning in January.
In late March, Variety reported that Birch’s marketing subordinates had filed complaints about her behavior — including that she vaped marijuana during work hours, despite numerous warnings to stop.
Also Read: Sony Pictures Names Michael Helfand, Joe Matukewicz Worldwide Acquisitions Heads
Multiple individuals familiar with the workplace downplayed the seriousness of the investigation. Birch was asked to take time off during the probe, one of the insiders said, but was never formally suspended.
That individual, and a second one who spoke to TheWrap, speculated that the press leak likely came from Birch’s staff in an attempt to force her resignation. Andre Caraco, co-president of domestic marketing, will fill Birch’s shoes for now.
Greenstein applauded her recent successes like the record-setting “Jumanji: Welcome to the Jungle” and “Spider-Man: Homecoming.”
Birch herself thanked studio head Tom Rothman and Greenstein, saying “I’m very proud of the team and I’m incredibly grateful … now, I’m ready for a new challenge.”
Also Read: Sony Pictures CEO Admits Need to Grow Studio Amid 'Floodgates' of Big Media Mergers
Read the full memo obtained by TheWrap:
Dear colleagues,
Following an extraordinarily impressive run in Columbia’s Domestic Marketing department, Christine Birch is stepping down from her post as President of Domestic Marketing.
Christine approached us about leaving in January 2018, following the record-setting performance of Jumanji: Welcome to the Jungle. Under her tenure, Sony’s domestic marketing department produced some of its best results in years, including Spider-Man: Homecoming, The Magnificent Seven, Peter Rabbit, and Jumanji: Welcome to the Jungle.
Below is a short note from Christine regarding her departure:
“The transformation of the Columbia Pictures marketing department has been one of the most rewarding chapters of my career. I’m very proud of the team and I’m incredibly grateful to Tom Rothman and Josh Greenstein for supporting my vision. Now, I’m ready for a new challenge.”
Christine’s direct reports will report to Andre Caraco, Co-President of Domestic Marketing, on an interim basis.
Please join me in thanking Christine for her hard work and dedication to Sony Pictures, and in wishing her all the best in the next chapter of her career.
Josh
Read original story Christine Birch Steps Down as Sony Pictures Domestic Marketing Head At TheWrap...
Official word of her resignation came down from Sony’s marketing chief Josh Greenstein on Wednesday, who said Birch originally approached him about resigning in January.
In late March, Variety reported that Birch’s marketing subordinates had filed complaints about her behavior — including that she vaped marijuana during work hours, despite numerous warnings to stop.
Also Read: Sony Pictures Names Michael Helfand, Joe Matukewicz Worldwide Acquisitions Heads
Multiple individuals familiar with the workplace downplayed the seriousness of the investigation. Birch was asked to take time off during the probe, one of the insiders said, but was never formally suspended.
That individual, and a second one who spoke to TheWrap, speculated that the press leak likely came from Birch’s staff in an attempt to force her resignation. Andre Caraco, co-president of domestic marketing, will fill Birch’s shoes for now.
Greenstein applauded her recent successes like the record-setting “Jumanji: Welcome to the Jungle” and “Spider-Man: Homecoming.”
Birch herself thanked studio head Tom Rothman and Greenstein, saying “I’m very proud of the team and I’m incredibly grateful … now, I’m ready for a new challenge.”
Also Read: Sony Pictures CEO Admits Need to Grow Studio Amid 'Floodgates' of Big Media Mergers
Read the full memo obtained by TheWrap:
Dear colleagues,
Following an extraordinarily impressive run in Columbia’s Domestic Marketing department, Christine Birch is stepping down from her post as President of Domestic Marketing.
Christine approached us about leaving in January 2018, following the record-setting performance of Jumanji: Welcome to the Jungle. Under her tenure, Sony’s domestic marketing department produced some of its best results in years, including Spider-Man: Homecoming, The Magnificent Seven, Peter Rabbit, and Jumanji: Welcome to the Jungle.
Below is a short note from Christine regarding her departure:
“The transformation of the Columbia Pictures marketing department has been one of the most rewarding chapters of my career. I’m very proud of the team and I’m incredibly grateful to Tom Rothman and Josh Greenstein for supporting my vision. Now, I’m ready for a new challenge.”
Christine’s direct reports will report to Andre Caraco, Co-President of Domestic Marketing, on an interim basis.
Please join me in thanking Christine for her hard work and dedication to Sony Pictures, and in wishing her all the best in the next chapter of her career.
Josh
Read original story Christine Birch Steps Down as Sony Pictures Domestic Marketing Head At TheWrap...
- 4/4/2018
- by Matt Donnelly
- The Wrap
Sony Pictures has elevated two executives, Michael Helfand and Joe Matukewicz, as co-heads of Sony Pictures Worldwide Acquisitions and its low-budget label Studio 6. Helfand and Matukewicz will report to Steve Bersch, who remains president of the unit and was tapped to lead Sony label Screen Gems in February after longtime executive Clint Culpepper stepped down. The pair will handle day-to-day in addition to producing indie titles and rolling out international films. “Together, Michael and Joe have been driving forces behind the divisions’ most successful and anticipated titles including: Fede Alvarez’s hit thriller ‘Don’t Breathe,’ the ‘Insidious’ franchise Angela Robinson’s...
- 3/16/2018
- by Matt Donnelly
- The Wrap
New Screen Gems boss Steve Bersch sent the following memo out to staff today about Michael Helfand and Joe Matukewicz becoming the new co-heads of Sony Pictures Worldwide Acquistions. Both will report to Bersch. Jon Freedberg is also taking on the role of Svp Business Development and Content Strategy for Spwa. Dear Colleagues, I'd like to share some important news in our Worldwide Acquisitions and Stage 6 Films divisions: Michael Helfand, Evp Business and Strategic…...
- 3/16/2018
- Deadline
Studio deal excludes France on Debra Granik follow-up to Winter’s Bone.
Sony Pictures Worldwide Acquisitions (Spwa) has pounced on all international rights excluding France to Debra Granik’s Leave No Trace.
Granik’s follow-up to Winter’s Bone premiered on Saturday night in Premieres and centres on a father and daughter living off the grid. Ben Foster and newcomer Thomasin Harcourt McKenzieas star. Bron Creative and Topic Studios produced.
Winter’s Bone won the grand jury prize back in Sundance 2010 and went on to earn four Oscar nods including one for best picture and another for the film’s then-unknown star, Jennifer Lawrence.
The deal excludes North America. Endeavor Content and Bron’s Adam Davids and Anjay Nagpal brokered the deal on behalf of the filmmakers with Spwa’s Michael Helfand and Jon Freedberg.
Anne Harrison, Linda Reisman, and Anne Rosellini served as producers, and executive producers are Michael Bloom, Adam Pincus, Aaron L. Gilbert, [link...
Sony Pictures Worldwide Acquisitions (Spwa) has pounced on all international rights excluding France to Debra Granik’s Leave No Trace.
Granik’s follow-up to Winter’s Bone premiered on Saturday night in Premieres and centres on a father and daughter living off the grid. Ben Foster and newcomer Thomasin Harcourt McKenzieas star. Bron Creative and Topic Studios produced.
Winter’s Bone won the grand jury prize back in Sundance 2010 and went on to earn four Oscar nods including one for best picture and another for the film’s then-unknown star, Jennifer Lawrence.
The deal excludes North America. Endeavor Content and Bron’s Adam Davids and Anjay Nagpal brokered the deal on behalf of the filmmakers with Spwa’s Michael Helfand and Jon Freedberg.
Anne Harrison, Linda Reisman, and Anne Rosellini served as producers, and executive producers are Michael Bloom, Adam Pincus, Aaron L. Gilbert, [link...
- 1/21/2018
- by Jeremy Kay
- ScreenDaily
Differing views over release strategy believed to be cause.
Molly Smith’s Black Label Media has switched North American distributor on its upcoming Soldado and Granite Mountain from Lionsgate to Sony.
It is believed Lionsgate retains the bulk of international sales rights on the projects, which are both in post.
Screen understands the change stems from differing views over release strategy, however neither studio confirmed this.
Soldado is the sequel to crime thriller Sicario (pictured). Stefano Sollima directs the second in a potential trilogy that sees Benicio Del Toro and Brolin reprise their roles.
Joseph Kosinski directs Granite Mountain, which tells the true story of an elite crew of firefighters who battle to save their hometown from a wildfire.
Brolin also stars in this project alongside Miles Teller, Jeff Bridges, Taylor Kitsch and Jennifer Connelly.
Neither film was dated at time of writing. Sony Pictures Worldwide Acquisitions executives acquired both titles after Steve Bersch and Michael Helfand negotiated...
Molly Smith’s Black Label Media has switched North American distributor on its upcoming Soldado and Granite Mountain from Lionsgate to Sony.
It is believed Lionsgate retains the bulk of international sales rights on the projects, which are both in post.
Screen understands the change stems from differing views over release strategy, however neither studio confirmed this.
Soldado is the sequel to crime thriller Sicario (pictured). Stefano Sollima directs the second in a potential trilogy that sees Benicio Del Toro and Brolin reprise their roles.
Joseph Kosinski directs Granite Mountain, which tells the true story of an elite crew of firefighters who battle to save their hometown from a wildfire.
Brolin also stars in this project alongside Miles Teller, Jeff Bridges, Taylor Kitsch and Jennifer Connelly.
Neither film was dated at time of writing. Sony Pictures Worldwide Acquisitions executives acquired both titles after Steve Bersch and Michael Helfand negotiated...
- 4/24/2017
- by jeremykay67@gmail.com (Jeremy Kay)
- ScreenDaily
Sony Pictures Worldwide Acquisitions (Spwa) has acquired North America, English-speaking rights and select territories to the thriller starring Chloe Grace Moretz and Ansel Elgort. Lotus will commence pre-sales on remaining territories at the Efm next week.
Sacha Gervasi will direct November Criminals from a screenplay by Steven Knight about two teenagers who fall in love as they investigate a friend’s murder in the seedy underbelly of Washington.
Catherine Keener will also join the production, scheduled to begin on March 16. Elgort (pictured) comes fresh off global smash The Fault In Our Stars and will next be seen in Insurgent in March.
Lotus Entertainment’s Ara Keshishian along with Spwa evp Joe Matukewicz will oversee production.
Beth O’Neil and Erika Olde of Black Bicycle Entertainment will produce and Black Bicycle co-finances with Lotus.
The film’s joint Us representatives CAA and Wme Global brokered the deal with Bill Johnson for Lotus Entertainment and Spwa’s Michael Helfand, Matukewicz...
Sacha Gervasi will direct November Criminals from a screenplay by Steven Knight about two teenagers who fall in love as they investigate a friend’s murder in the seedy underbelly of Washington.
Catherine Keener will also join the production, scheduled to begin on March 16. Elgort (pictured) comes fresh off global smash The Fault In Our Stars and will next be seen in Insurgent in March.
Lotus Entertainment’s Ara Keshishian along with Spwa evp Joe Matukewicz will oversee production.
Beth O’Neil and Erika Olde of Black Bicycle Entertainment will produce and Black Bicycle co-finances with Lotus.
The film’s joint Us representatives CAA and Wme Global brokered the deal with Bill Johnson for Lotus Entertainment and Spwa’s Michael Helfand, Matukewicz...
- 1/30/2015
- by jeremykay67@gmail.com (Jeremy Kay)
- ScreenDaily
Sony Pictures Worldwide Acquisitions has snapped up worldwide rights to A Man In The Dark, the thriller from Sam Raimi and Rob Tapert’s Ghost House Pictures which Evil Dead helmer Fede Alvarez will direct. Alvarez and writing partner Rodo Sayagues co-wrote the tale, about three teens who break into a house to rob a blind man of millions only to fight for their own survival against a psychopath with secrets of his own. Sony and Ghost House most recently teamed on Alvarez’s $97.5 million grossing 2013 Evil Dead reboot. Raimi and Tapert are producers on A Man In The Dark, while J.R. Young, Nathan Kahane and Joe Drake will executive produce. Erin Westerman will oversee for the company. Wme Global negotiated the deal on behalf of Alvarez with Dark and Michael Meyer for Ghost House and Jon Freedberg, Michael Helfand and Joe Matukewicz for Spwa.
- 11/14/2014
- by The Deadline Team
- Deadline
Sony Pictures Worldwide Acquisitions (Spwa) has wasted little time jumping on Good Universe’s recent Afm sales title from Ghost House Pictures and Fede Alvarez.
Alvarez will direct from a screenplay he co-wrote with partner Rodo Sayagues. Sam Raimi and Rob Tapert will produce for Ghost House, while Jr Young and Good Universe’s Nathan Kahane and Joe Drake will serve as executive producers and Erin Westerman will oversee for the company.
A Man In The Dark follows three teenage robbers who target the home of a wealthy blind man who turns out to be a psychopath. Alvarez directed the Evil Dead remake.
Wme Global brokered the deal on behalf of Alvarez, Drake and Michael Meyer for Ghost House with Jon Freedberg, Michael Helfand and Joe Matukewicz for Spwa.
“We’re thrilled to be in business again with the creative team behind Evil Dead, and to back Fede on his next picture,” said Spwa president...
Alvarez will direct from a screenplay he co-wrote with partner Rodo Sayagues. Sam Raimi and Rob Tapert will produce for Ghost House, while Jr Young and Good Universe’s Nathan Kahane and Joe Drake will serve as executive producers and Erin Westerman will oversee for the company.
A Man In The Dark follows three teenage robbers who target the home of a wealthy blind man who turns out to be a psychopath. Alvarez directed the Evil Dead remake.
Wme Global brokered the deal on behalf of Alvarez, Drake and Michael Meyer for Ghost House with Jon Freedberg, Michael Helfand and Joe Matukewicz for Spwa.
“We’re thrilled to be in business again with the creative team behind Evil Dead, and to back Fede on his next picture,” said Spwa president...
- 11/14/2014
- by jeremykay67@gmail.com (Jeremy Kay)
- ScreenDaily
Exclusive: Sony acquires UK and select territories on Bill Murray comedy.
Sony Pictures Worldwide Acquisitions (Spwa) has struck a major deal with Qed International for the UK and major territories on Bill Murray comedy Rock The Kasbah.
Spwa has also picked up rights for Latin America, Spain, Eastern Europe and several other markets.
Barry Levinson will start production in Morocco at the end of the month and Us distributor Open Road has earmarked a 2015 release.
Leem Lubany of Cannes 2013 Ucr selection Omar has joined Murray, Bruce Willis, Kate Hudson, Danny McBride, Scott Caan and Zooey Deschanel on the cast.
Lubany will play Salima, a young Pashtun singer who is discovered by Murray’s washed-out rock manager and entered into Afghanistan’s version of American Idol. In the film she will sing four songs by Yusuf Islam (aka Cat Stevens).
Qed’s Bill Block produces with Venture Forth’s Jacob Pechenik, Shangri-La Entertainment’s [link...
Sony Pictures Worldwide Acquisitions (Spwa) has struck a major deal with Qed International for the UK and major territories on Bill Murray comedy Rock The Kasbah.
Spwa has also picked up rights for Latin America, Spain, Eastern Europe and several other markets.
Barry Levinson will start production in Morocco at the end of the month and Us distributor Open Road has earmarked a 2015 release.
Leem Lubany of Cannes 2013 Ucr selection Omar has joined Murray, Bruce Willis, Kate Hudson, Danny McBride, Scott Caan and Zooey Deschanel on the cast.
Lubany will play Salima, a young Pashtun singer who is discovered by Murray’s washed-out rock manager and entered into Afghanistan’s version of American Idol. In the film she will sing four songs by Yusuf Islam (aka Cat Stevens).
Qed’s Bill Block produces with Venture Forth’s Jacob Pechenik, Shangri-La Entertainment’s [link...
- 5/21/2014
- by jeremykay67@gmail.com (Jeremy Kay)
- ScreenDaily
Exclusive: Spwa secures key markets on Yorgos Lanthimos love story. First image from the film here…
Sony Pictures Worldwide Acquisitions (Spwa) has snapped up rights in key territories to Yorgos Lanthimos’ English-language debut, The Lobster.
Territories included in the deal are Australia/New Zealand, German-speaking Europe, Scandinavia, Russia/Cis, Eastern Europe, and Latin America, among others.
The deal was negotiated between Michael Helfand, Evp of business affairs, and Joe Matukewicz, Svp of acquisitions for Spwa and Protagonist CEO Mike Goodridge.
The cast includes Colin Farrell, Rachel Weisz, John C. Reilly, Ben Whishaw, Léa Seydoux, Olivia Colman, Ariane Labed, Angeliki Papoulia. Ashley Jensen, Michael Smiley and Jessica Barden.
Lanthimos, the Oscar-nominated director of Alps and Dogtooth, directs the comedic love story set in the near future where single people are arrested and transferred to ‘The Hotel’.
Once there, they are obliged to find a mate in 45 days, otherwise, they will be transformed into an animal of their choosing...
Sony Pictures Worldwide Acquisitions (Spwa) has snapped up rights in key territories to Yorgos Lanthimos’ English-language debut, The Lobster.
Territories included in the deal are Australia/New Zealand, German-speaking Europe, Scandinavia, Russia/Cis, Eastern Europe, and Latin America, among others.
The deal was negotiated between Michael Helfand, Evp of business affairs, and Joe Matukewicz, Svp of acquisitions for Spwa and Protagonist CEO Mike Goodridge.
The cast includes Colin Farrell, Rachel Weisz, John C. Reilly, Ben Whishaw, Léa Seydoux, Olivia Colman, Ariane Labed, Angeliki Papoulia. Ashley Jensen, Michael Smiley and Jessica Barden.
Lanthimos, the Oscar-nominated director of Alps and Dogtooth, directs the comedic love story set in the near future where single people are arrested and transferred to ‘The Hotel’.
Once there, they are obliged to find a mate in 45 days, otherwise, they will be transformed into an animal of their choosing...
- 5/9/2014
- by andreas.wiseman@screendaily.com (Andreas Wiseman)
- ScreenDaily
Exclusive: Spwa secures key markets on Yorgos Lanthimos love story. First image from the film here…
Sony Pictures Worldwide Acquisitions (Spwa) has snapped up rights in key territories to Yorgos Lanthimos’ English-language debut, The Lobster.
Territories included in the deal are Australia/New Zealand, German-speaking Europe, Scandinavia, Russia/Cis, Eastern Europe, and Latin America, among others.
The deal was negotiated between Michael Helfand, Evp of business affairs, and Joe Matukewicz, Svp of acquisitions for Spwa and Protagonist CEO Mike Goodridge.
The cast includes Colin Farrell, Rachel Weisz, John C. Reilly, Ben Whishaw, Léa Seydoux, Olivia Colman, Ariane Labed, Angeliki Papoulia. Ashley Jensen, Michael Smiley and Jessica Barden.
Lanthimos, the Oscar-nominated director of Alps and Dogtooth, directs the comedic love story set in the near future where single people are arrested and transferred to ‘The Hotel’.
Once there, they are obliged to find a mate in 45 days, otherwise, they will be transformed into an animal of their choosing...
Sony Pictures Worldwide Acquisitions (Spwa) has snapped up rights in key territories to Yorgos Lanthimos’ English-language debut, The Lobster.
Territories included in the deal are Australia/New Zealand, German-speaking Europe, Scandinavia, Russia/Cis, Eastern Europe, and Latin America, among others.
The deal was negotiated between Michael Helfand, Evp of business affairs, and Joe Matukewicz, Svp of acquisitions for Spwa and Protagonist CEO Mike Goodridge.
The cast includes Colin Farrell, Rachel Weisz, John C. Reilly, Ben Whishaw, Léa Seydoux, Olivia Colman, Ariane Labed, Angeliki Papoulia. Ashley Jensen, Michael Smiley and Jessica Barden.
Lanthimos, the Oscar-nominated director of Alps and Dogtooth, directs the comedic love story set in the near future where single people are arrested and transferred to ‘The Hotel’.
Once there, they are obliged to find a mate in 45 days, otherwise, they will be transformed into an animal of their choosing...
- 5/9/2014
- by andreas.wiseman@screendaily.com (Andreas Wiseman)
- ScreenDaily
Sony Pictures Worldwide Acquisitions (Spwa) has pre-bought all worldwide rights to Groundswell Productions’ comedy The Final Girls.
Malin Akerman and Taissa Farmiga will star in the tale of the grieving daughter of a 1980s scream queen who finds herself trapped in her mother’s most famous film.
The women are reunited and must fight off the film’s maniacal killer before the daughter can return to her life. Production is scheduled to commence in Louisiana in April.
Todd Strauss-Schulson will direct The Final Girls and created the viral short All’s Fair. M A Fortin and Joshua John Miller co-wrote the screenplay and Michael London and Janice Williams are producing. Joe Matukewicz and Chan Phung will oversee the project for Spwa.
Michael Helfand negotiated the deal for Spwa with David Boyle for the producers.
Malin Akerman and Taissa Farmiga will star in the tale of the grieving daughter of a 1980s scream queen who finds herself trapped in her mother’s most famous film.
The women are reunited and must fight off the film’s maniacal killer before the daughter can return to her life. Production is scheduled to commence in Louisiana in April.
Todd Strauss-Schulson will direct The Final Girls and created the viral short All’s Fair. M A Fortin and Joshua John Miller co-wrote the screenplay and Michael London and Janice Williams are producing. Joe Matukewicz and Chan Phung will oversee the project for Spwa.
Michael Helfand negotiated the deal for Spwa with David Boyle for the producers.
- 2/27/2014
- by jeremykay67@gmail.com (Jeremy Kay)
- ScreenDaily
Sundance 2014 is underway out in Park City, and Damien Chazelle’s Whiplash has already emerged as one of the most buzzed films of the festival.
The early reviews have been full of praise for Miles Teller and J.K. Simmons’ leading performances, and so it should come as no surprise that some of its international rights have already been snapped up.
Sony Pictures Worldwide Acquisitions has announced that it has acquired rights for a handful of international territories, including our own shores here in the UK, as well as those of Scandinavia, Benelux, Eastern Europe (ex Cis), Greece, South Africa, Spain, Italy, Portugal, and Latin America.
Andrew, a promising 19-year-old drummer at a cutthroat Manhattan music conservatory, has little interest in being just a musician. Haunted by his father’s failed writing career and plagued with the fear that mediocrity just might be genetic, Andrew dreams of greatness. Determined not to...
The early reviews have been full of praise for Miles Teller and J.K. Simmons’ leading performances, and so it should come as no surprise that some of its international rights have already been snapped up.
Sony Pictures Worldwide Acquisitions has announced that it has acquired rights for a handful of international territories, including our own shores here in the UK, as well as those of Scandinavia, Benelux, Eastern Europe (ex Cis), Greece, South Africa, Spain, Italy, Portugal, and Latin America.
Andrew, a promising 19-year-old drummer at a cutthroat Manhattan music conservatory, has little interest in being just a musician. Haunted by his father’s failed writing career and plagued with the fear that mediocrity just might be genetic, Andrew dreams of greatness. Determined not to...
- 1/17/2014
- by Kenji Lloyd
- HeyUGuys.co.uk
Hot off its well-received debut as the opening night film at Sundance, Sony Pictures Worldwide Acquisitions has acquired rights in several international territories to writer-director Damien Chazelle’s drama “Whiplash,” which stars Miles Teller and J.K. Simmons. Territories acquired include the U.K., Scandinavia, Benelux, Eastern Europe (ex Cis), Greece, South Africa, Spain, Italy, Portugal and Latin America. The deal was made by Spwa’s Michael Helfand, Jon Freedberg and Chan Phung, and international sales agency Sierra/Affinity on behalf of Bold Films, which financed the movie. Also Read: 10 Most Buzzed-About Sundance Actors, From Bill Hader to Maika Monroe “Whiplash...
- 1/17/2014
- by Jeff Sneider
- The Wrap
Ift has secured several deals for Your Voice In My Head, starring Emma Watson, including Sony Pictures Worldwide Acquisitions (Spwa).
The sales company has licensed rights to Sony Pictures Worldwide Acquisitions (Spwa) for the UK, Australia/New Zealand, Scandinavia, Latin America and Eastern Europe.
It has closed further deals for South Korea (Sookie), Turkey (Kalinos), Switzerland (Praesens), Hong Kong, India and Taiwan (Pt Parkit), Singapore (Shaw), China (Hgc) and the Middle East (Shooting Stars).
Emma Watson will star in the adaptation of Emma Forrest’s bestseller as a young bipolar Englishwoman in New York whose life is saved by a heroic psychiatrist. CAA represents Us rights.
Production is set to begin in early 2014. Francesca Gregorini directs and Alison Owen and Michael Benaroya produce for Benaroya Pictures and Ruby’s Faye Ward serves as executive producer.
Ift head of sales Christian de Gallegos negotiated the Your Voice In My Head deal with Spwa evp of business affairs [link=nm...
The sales company has licensed rights to Sony Pictures Worldwide Acquisitions (Spwa) for the UK, Australia/New Zealand, Scandinavia, Latin America and Eastern Europe.
It has closed further deals for South Korea (Sookie), Turkey (Kalinos), Switzerland (Praesens), Hong Kong, India and Taiwan (Pt Parkit), Singapore (Shaw), China (Hgc) and the Middle East (Shooting Stars).
Emma Watson will star in the adaptation of Emma Forrest’s bestseller as a young bipolar Englishwoman in New York whose life is saved by a heroic psychiatrist. CAA represents Us rights.
Production is set to begin in early 2014. Francesca Gregorini directs and Alison Owen and Michael Benaroya produce for Benaroya Pictures and Ruby’s Faye Ward serves as executive producer.
Ift head of sales Christian de Gallegos negotiated the Your Voice In My Head deal with Spwa evp of business affairs [link=nm...
- 11/6/2013
- by jeremykay67@gmail.com (Jeremy Kay)
- ScreenDaily
Sony Pictures Worldwide Acquisitions (Spwa) has licensed the UK and a raft of territories from Exclusive Media to the Toronto entry Therese.
Spwa also picked up rights to Charlie Stratton’s romantic thriller for Germany, Latin America, Austria, Scandinavia and Benelux. Roadside Attractions holds Us rights.
Exclusive Media president of international sales Alex Walton negotiated the deal with Spwa evp of business affairs Michael Helfand, vp of acquisitions Chan Phung and vp of development Jon Freedberg.
Elizabeth Olsen, Oscar Isaac, Tom Felton and Jessica Lange star in the Emile Zola adaptation. Ld Distribution CEO Mickey Liddell produced with Pete Shilaimon and William Horberg of Wonderful Films.
Richard Sharkey, Jennifer Monroe and Stratton served as executive producers.
Spwa also picked up rights to Charlie Stratton’s romantic thriller for Germany, Latin America, Austria, Scandinavia and Benelux. Roadside Attractions holds Us rights.
Exclusive Media president of international sales Alex Walton negotiated the deal with Spwa evp of business affairs Michael Helfand, vp of acquisitions Chan Phung and vp of development Jon Freedberg.
Elizabeth Olsen, Oscar Isaac, Tom Felton and Jessica Lange star in the Emile Zola adaptation. Ld Distribution CEO Mickey Liddell produced with Pete Shilaimon and William Horberg of Wonderful Films.
Richard Sharkey, Jennifer Monroe and Stratton served as executive producers.
- 9/8/2013
- by jeremykay67@gmail.com (Jeremy Kay)
- ScreenDaily
We return with the latest edition of the Indie Spotlight, highlighting recent independent horror news sent our way. Today’s feature includes a trailer for The Banshee Chapter, a new episode of Chronicles of the Dead, details on The Crying Dead, and much more:
Heir First Details: “From Richard Powell and Zach Green’s Fatal Pictures, the company that brought you the critically acclaimed, award winning horror shorts Worm and Familiar, comes their new and final short film “Heir”, a touching tale of father and son. Starring the Emmy award winning Bill Oberst Jr. (Abraham Lincoln Vs. Zombies) and Robert Nolan (Sick, Worm, Familiar).
After connecting with a stranger of similar interests online, family man Gordon and his son Paul, embark on an ill-fated road trip in which Gordon aims to indulge in a secret passion. Before the day ends a horrible truth will be uncovered and a harsh lesson will be learned.
Heir First Details: “From Richard Powell and Zach Green’s Fatal Pictures, the company that brought you the critically acclaimed, award winning horror shorts Worm and Familiar, comes their new and final short film “Heir”, a touching tale of father and son. Starring the Emmy award winning Bill Oberst Jr. (Abraham Lincoln Vs. Zombies) and Robert Nolan (Sick, Worm, Familiar).
After connecting with a stranger of similar interests online, family man Gordon and his son Paul, embark on an ill-fated road trip in which Gordon aims to indulge in a secret passion. Before the day ends a horrible truth will be uncovered and a harsh lesson will be learned.
- 7/28/2013
- by Tamika Jones
- DailyDead
Sony Pictures have announced that they have acquired the worldwide rights to Tze Chun’s Cold Comes the Night, and along with the announcement comes a very promising first trailer.
Alice Eve and Bryan Cranston look to be great in the joint leads, with Cranston taking much more of a central role than the more frequent supporting roles we’ve seen from him in recent years. And that can only be good news.
Cold Comes the Night tells the story of a struggling motel owner (Eve) who, along with her daughter (Parker), is taken hostage by a career criminal (Cranston) as he attempts to retrieve his cash package from a crooked cop (Marshall-Green). Everyone gets in over their heads, and a series of double-crosses leaves a string of dead bodies in this pulse-pounding story about desperation and survival.
Eve and Cranston star alongside Logan Marshall-Green and Ursula Parker.
Chun is making his sophomore feature,...
Alice Eve and Bryan Cranston look to be great in the joint leads, with Cranston taking much more of a central role than the more frequent supporting roles we’ve seen from him in recent years. And that can only be good news.
Cold Comes the Night tells the story of a struggling motel owner (Eve) who, along with her daughter (Parker), is taken hostage by a career criminal (Cranston) as he attempts to retrieve his cash package from a crooked cop (Marshall-Green). Everyone gets in over their heads, and a series of double-crosses leaves a string of dead bodies in this pulse-pounding story about desperation and survival.
Eve and Cranston star alongside Logan Marshall-Green and Ursula Parker.
Chun is making his sophomore feature,...
- 7/26/2013
- by Kenji Lloyd
- HeyUGuys.co.uk
Sony Pictures Worldwide Acquisitions (Spwa) has acquired all worldwide rights to Tze Chun’s Cold Comes The Night starring Alice Eve, Bryan Cranston and Logan Marshall-Green.
Chun co-wrote the screenplay with Osgood Perkins and Nick Simon about a motel owner and her daughter who are taken hostage by a career criminal.
Ursula Parker and Leo Fitzpatrick round out the key cast. Chun’s follow-up to Children Of Invention is in post and Spwa vp of production Lauren Craniotes oversees for the studio.
Mynette Louie of Syncopated Films and Trevor Sagan of Sasquatch Films produced and the financiers are Three Point Capital, Whitewater Films and Cherry Sky Films.
Scott Halle, Rick Rosenthal, Nick Morton, Jacob Pechenik, and Ali Jazayeri served as executive producers.
UTA Independent Film Group and Andre Des Rochers of Gray Krauss Stratford Des Rochers represented the filmmakers in the deal with Spwa’s evp of business affairs Michael Helfand.
Chun co-wrote the screenplay with Osgood Perkins and Nick Simon about a motel owner and her daughter who are taken hostage by a career criminal.
Ursula Parker and Leo Fitzpatrick round out the key cast. Chun’s follow-up to Children Of Invention is in post and Spwa vp of production Lauren Craniotes oversees for the studio.
Mynette Louie of Syncopated Films and Trevor Sagan of Sasquatch Films produced and the financiers are Three Point Capital, Whitewater Films and Cherry Sky Films.
Scott Halle, Rick Rosenthal, Nick Morton, Jacob Pechenik, and Ali Jazayeri served as executive producers.
UTA Independent Film Group and Andre Des Rochers of Gray Krauss Stratford Des Rochers represented the filmmakers in the deal with Spwa’s evp of business affairs Michael Helfand.
- 7/25/2013
- by jeremykay67@gmail.com (Jeremy Kay)
- ScreenDaily
Sony Pictures Worldwide Acquisitions (Spwa) has acquired all worldwide rights to Tze Chun’s Cold Comes The Night starring Alice Eve, Bryan Cranston and Logan Marshall-Green.
Chun co-wrote the screenplay with Osgood Perkins and Nick Simon about a motel owner and her daughter who are taken hostage by a career criminal.
Ursula Parker and Leo Fitzpatrick round out the key cast. Chun’s follow-up to Children Of Invention is in post and Spwa vp of production Lauren Craniotes oversees for the studio.
Mynette Louie of Syncopated Films and Trevor Sagan of Sasquatch Films produced and the financiers are Three Point Capital, Whitewater Films and Cherry Sky Films.
Scott Halle, Rick Rosenthal, Nick Morton, Jacob Pechenik, and Ali Jazayeri served as executive producers.
UTA Independent Film Group and Andre Des Rochers of Gray Krauss Stratford Des Rochers represented the filmmakers in the deal with Spwa’s evp of business affairs Michael Helfand.
Chun co-wrote the screenplay with Osgood Perkins and Nick Simon about a motel owner and her daughter who are taken hostage by a career criminal.
Ursula Parker and Leo Fitzpatrick round out the key cast. Chun’s follow-up to Children Of Invention is in post and Spwa vp of production Lauren Craniotes oversees for the studio.
Mynette Louie of Syncopated Films and Trevor Sagan of Sasquatch Films produced and the financiers are Three Point Capital, Whitewater Films and Cherry Sky Films.
Scott Halle, Rick Rosenthal, Nick Morton, Jacob Pechenik, and Ali Jazayeri served as executive producers.
UTA Independent Film Group and Andre Des Rochers of Gray Krauss Stratford Des Rochers represented the filmmakers in the deal with Spwa’s evp of business affairs Michael Helfand.
- 7/25/2013
- by jeremykay67@gmail.com (Jeremy Kay)
- ScreenDaily
Sony Pictures has announced that they've acquired the rights to Grace, another flick in the teen tormented by an ungodly force and we don't mean Justin Bieber and his piss-bucket wiles.
From the Press Release
Sony Pictures Worldwide Acquisitions (“Spwa”) has acquired Grace, the horror-thriller from Automatik, Oddfellows Entertainment and Colony Pictures. Jeff Chan, who co-wrote the film with Chris Paré, is directing. Grace marks Chan’s full-length feature debut, having previously helmed live action shorts for Activision’s Call Of Duty franchise. Automatik’s Brian Kavanaugh-Jones (Insidious: Chapter 2, Sinister, Insidious) and Oddfellows’ Chris Ferguson are producing.
Seen entirely through the eyes of Grace, an oppressed 18 year old is tormented by the ungodly forces that plague her.
The film, which is currently shooting in Vancouver, stars Alexia Fast (Jack Reacher) as Grace, Alan Dale (The Girl With The Dragon Tattoo, Captain America: The Winter Soldier), Lin Shaye (Insidious: Chapter 2,...
From the Press Release
Sony Pictures Worldwide Acquisitions (“Spwa”) has acquired Grace, the horror-thriller from Automatik, Oddfellows Entertainment and Colony Pictures. Jeff Chan, who co-wrote the film with Chris Paré, is directing. Grace marks Chan’s full-length feature debut, having previously helmed live action shorts for Activision’s Call Of Duty franchise. Automatik’s Brian Kavanaugh-Jones (Insidious: Chapter 2, Sinister, Insidious) and Oddfellows’ Chris Ferguson are producing.
Seen entirely through the eyes of Grace, an oppressed 18 year old is tormented by the ungodly forces that plague her.
The film, which is currently shooting in Vancouver, stars Alexia Fast (Jack Reacher) as Grace, Alan Dale (The Girl With The Dragon Tattoo, Captain America: The Winter Soldier), Lin Shaye (Insidious: Chapter 2,...
- 7/19/2013
- by Uncle Creepy
- DreadCentral.com
Alex Walton, President of International at Exclusive Media, announced today that the company has closed a number of international sales including a multi-territory deal with Sony Pictures Worldwide Acquisitions (“Spwa”) for the highly anticipated dramatic thriller Parkland.
Parkland is produced by Playtone partners Tom Hanks and Gary Goetzman, as well as Exclusive Media and The American Film Company, which will also co-finance with Exclusive. Bill Paxton is also a Producer.
Currently shooting on location in Austin, Texas, Parkland is set for a domestic fall 2013 release, to tie in with the 50th anniversary of the assassination of President John F. Kennedy and stars Zac Efron (The Paperboy, At Any Price, The Lucky One), Oscar winner Marcia Gay Harden (Mystic River, Pollock), Jeremy Strong (Zero Dark Thirty, Lincoln), Oscar winner Billy Bob Thornton (Sling Blade, Eagle Eye), Oscar nominee Jacki Weaver (Silver Linings Playbook, Animal Kingdom), and Oscar nominated Paul Giamatti (The Ides Of March,...
Parkland is produced by Playtone partners Tom Hanks and Gary Goetzman, as well as Exclusive Media and The American Film Company, which will also co-finance with Exclusive. Bill Paxton is also a Producer.
Currently shooting on location in Austin, Texas, Parkland is set for a domestic fall 2013 release, to tie in with the 50th anniversary of the assassination of President John F. Kennedy and stars Zac Efron (The Paperboy, At Any Price, The Lucky One), Oscar winner Marcia Gay Harden (Mystic River, Pollock), Jeremy Strong (Zero Dark Thirty, Lincoln), Oscar winner Billy Bob Thornton (Sling Blade, Eagle Eye), Oscar nominee Jacki Weaver (Silver Linings Playbook, Animal Kingdom), and Oscar nominated Paul Giamatti (The Ides Of March,...
- 2/6/2013
- by Michelle McCue
- WeAreMovieGeeks.com
Robert Pattinson new Bel Ami film finally got real,official United States release date. According to a new report from Variety,this is the real deal. Twilight Saga mega star Robert Pattinson's New "Bel Ami" flick has finally gotten a real United States release date of June 8th. They say, Magnolia Pictures bought the film,and gave it the release date. The deal was made with Sony Pictures Worldwide Acquisitions, which will handle all other U.S. media. The deal was negotiated by Magnolia senior Vice President of acquisitions Dori Begley and head of business affairs Chris Matson, along with Spwa's executive VP of business affairs Michael Helfand and VP of acquisitions and distribution Tana Evans.The movie stars: Robert Pattinson, Uma Thurman, Kristin Scott Thomas,and Christina Ricci. In the flick, Rob plays character Georges Deroy,who is an ambitious young man who discovers that his unadulterated passion...
- 3/13/2012
- by Chris
- OnTheFlix
One can only imagine how long Team Edward fans have been waiting to see their beloved Robert Pattinson swooning the likes of Uma Thurman, Kristin Scott Thomas, Christina Ricci in Bel Ami. Now we’ve got an official release date, so get ready to mark you calanders. Collider has discovered that not only has Magnolia Pictures acquired the distribution rights to Bel Ami.
The movie based on the Guy de Maupassant’s novel of the same name centers on an ambitious young journalist Georges Duroy (Pattinson), who works his way up the social and professional ranks through a series of affairs with influential women. Directed by theatre vets Declan Donnellan and Nick Ormerod, the film also stars Uma Thurman, Kristin Scott Thomas, Christina Ricci, and Colm Meaney.
Here’s the full press release:
Bel Ami to Hit U.S. Theaters Summer 2012
New York – (March 12, 2012) – The Wagner/Cuban Company’s Magnolia Pictures...
The movie based on the Guy de Maupassant’s novel of the same name centers on an ambitious young journalist Georges Duroy (Pattinson), who works his way up the social and professional ranks through a series of affairs with influential women. Directed by theatre vets Declan Donnellan and Nick Ormerod, the film also stars Uma Thurman, Kristin Scott Thomas, Christina Ricci, and Colm Meaney.
Here’s the full press release:
Bel Ami to Hit U.S. Theaters Summer 2012
New York – (March 12, 2012) – The Wagner/Cuban Company’s Magnolia Pictures...
- 3/13/2012
- by Mike Lee
- FusedFilm
Magnolia Pictures has acquired period drama "Bel Ami" for a June 8th U.S. theatrical release, it was announced today. Starring Robert Pattinson, Uma Thurman, Kristin Scott Thomas and Christina Ricci, the film had its world premiere at the Berlin International Film Festival last month. It retells Guy de Maupassant's tale of social climbing in 19th century Paris, with Pattinson starring as a young seducer to takes advantage of some influential Parisian ladies (Thurman, Thomas, Ricci). The deal was negotiated for Magnolia by Svp of Acquisitions Dori Begley and Head of Business Affairs Chris Matson with Spwa’s Evp of Business Affairs Michael Helfand and VP Acquisitions and Distribution Tana Evans. Full press release below. New York – (March 12, 2012) – The Wagner/Cuban Company’s Magnolia Pictures announced today the June 8th U.S. theatrical release of Bel Ami, starring Robert Pattinson, Uma Thurman, Kristin Scott Thomas,...
- 3/12/2012
- by Peter Knegt
- Indiewire
New York – (March 12, 2012) – The Wagner/Cuban Company’s Magnolia Pictures announced today the June 8th U.S. theatrical release of Bel Ami, starring Robert Pattinson, Uma Thurman, Kristin Scott Thomas, Christina Ricci, and Colm Meaney. Bel Ami had its World Premiere as an Official Selection of last month’s 62nd Berlin International Film Festival. In this sexy retelling of Guy de Maupassant’s classic tale of blackmail, manipulation, and social-climbing, set against 19th century Paris, Pattinson stars as the young and very ambitious George Duroy, who discovers that his unadulterated passion and seduction skills with influential Parisian ladies (Ricci, Thurman, and Thomas), above-all, is the fastest and most effective way to the upper echelons of the society he so desperately wants to control. Directed by Declan Donnellan and Nick Ormerod, the film was written by Rachel Bennette, produced by Uberto Pasolini (The Full Monty), and Simon Fuller of Xix Entertainment (“American Idol,...
- 3/12/2012
- by MIKE FLEMING
- Deadline
Roadside Attractions and Sony Pictures Worldwide Acquisitions’ Stage 6 Films will release David Mackenzie's "Tonight You're Mine" in theaters May 11. Spwa originally acquired the film under the title "You Instead" after its world premiere at the 2011 Glasgow Film Festival, followed by a Us premiere at SXSW Film Festival. Spwa will distribute all other Us media. The cast includes Luke Treadaway, Natalia Tena, Alastair MacKenzie, Gavin Mitchell and Sophie Wu. Thomas Leveritt wrote the script, and the film was produced by Gillian Berrie. Shot over four days at Scotland’s T in the Park music festival, the film follows an indie music star and a punk-rock girl band leader who get into a backstage fight and find themselves handcuffed together and unable to be separated, even to perform their gigs. The deal was negotiated by Roadside's Howard Cohen and Spwa's Michael Helfand, executive VP of business...
- 2/10/2012
- Indiewire
Sony Pictures Worldwide Acquisitions (Spwa) and Samuel Goldwyn Films are partnering on the U.S. theatrical release in addition to jointly acquiring North American rights to Park Pictures Features. Robot & Frank, the 2012 Sundance Film Festival favorite, starring Academy Award® nominee Frank Langella (Frost/Nixon), Academy Award® winner Susan Sarandon (Dead Man Walking), James Marsden, Liv Tyler, Golden Globe® nominee Peter Saarsgard (Shattered Glass), Jeremy Sisto and Jeremy Strong. Additionally, Spwa has acquired all media rights for Latin America, Australia, New Zealand, South Africa, Scandinavia and Eastern Europe including Russia.
The deal was negotiated by Spwa’s Executive Vice President of Business Affairs, Michael Helfand, and Joe Matukewicz, Senior Vice President of Acquisitions, with Peter Goldwyn, Vice President of Acquisitions, representing Samuel Goldwyn Films. CAA and ICM.s Jessica Lacy negotiated on behalf of the filmmakers. ICM represents Langella, Sarandon and Strong.
.We have loved this project from the script stage...
The deal was negotiated by Spwa’s Executive Vice President of Business Affairs, Michael Helfand, and Joe Matukewicz, Senior Vice President of Acquisitions, with Peter Goldwyn, Vice President of Acquisitions, representing Samuel Goldwyn Films. CAA and ICM.s Jessica Lacy negotiated on behalf of the filmmakers. ICM represents Langella, Sarandon and Strong.
.We have loved this project from the script stage...
- 1/26/2012
- by Melissa Howland
- WeAreMovieGeeks.com
Sony Pictures nabbed North American rights to "Bel Ami," the drawing-room drama starring "Twilight" hottie Robert Pattinson. The deal comes on the second day of the American Film Market. In addition to Pattinson, "Bel Ami" co-stars Uma Thurman, Kristin Scott Thomas and Christina Ricci. The deal was concluded between Michael Helfand, executive VP of business affairs, and Tana Evans, VP of acquisitions and distribution for Sony Pictures Worldwide Acquisitions, and Ben Roberts, CEO for Protagonist Pictures. Pattinson plays penniless ex-soldier Georges Duroy, whose remarkable rise through the echelons of the Parisian beau monde in...
- 11/3/2011
- by Brent Lang
- The Wrap
Sony Pictures Worldwide Acquisitions has lived up to their name and acquired worldwide rights to Joseph Kahn's Detention. And then they had a lot of fun writing this press release:Culver City, CA (June 15, 2011) - Sony Pictures Worldwide Acquisitions (Spwa) has picked up worldwide rights to Detention Films' Detention, which just took home the Youth Jury prize for best FutureWave Feature Film at the Seattle International Film Festival. The announcement was made by Spwa's Vice President of Production and Acquisitions Scott Shooman and Michael Helfand, Senior Vice President of Business Affairs, along with Detention Films' Bob Abramoff and Richard Weager. "This is the best apocalyptic fantasy, horror, science fiction, action- thriller, body swapping, time-traveling teen romantic comedy that we have ever screened. The...
- 6/15/2011
- Screen Anarchy
Sony Pictures Worldwide Acquisitions has picked up worldwide rights to Detention Films' Detention , which just took home the Youth Jury prize for best FutureWave Feature Film at the Seattle International Film Festival. The announcement was made by Spwa's Vice President of Production and Acquisitions Scott Shooman and Michael Helfand, Senior Vice President of Business Affairs, along with Detention Films' Bob Abramoff and Richard Weager. "This is the best apocalyptic fantasy, horror, science fiction, action-thriller, body swapping, time-traveling teen romantic comedy that we have ever screened. The pace, energy, and awesomeness Joseph Kahn has achieved in 'Detention' is completely mind-blowing in the best way possible," said Shooman. "I am thrilled for 'Detention'...
- 6/15/2011
- shocktillyoudrop.com
A major studio taking an interest in a small indie film that's been polarizing audiences on the festival scene? Now that's something that you don't see every day! Thankfully for director Joseph Kahn that's exactly the case for his new film, Detention.
According to The Hollywood Reporter, Sony Pictures Worldwide Acquisitions has picked up worldwide rights to Detention Films' Detention, which bills itself as an apocalyptic, body-swapping, time-traveling teen romantic comedy.
“The pace, energy and awesomeness Kahn has achieved in Detention are completely mind-blowing in the best way possible,” said Spwa vp production Scott Shooman, who announced the acquistion along with Spwa senior vp business affairs Michael Helfand and Detention Films’ Abramoff and Weager.
Detention stars Dane Cook, Josh Hutcherson, Shanley Caswell, Spencer Locke, Parker Bagley, Alison Woods, Walter Perez, and Evan Williams. Look for more soon.
Synopsis:
The film follows a 17-year-old who is given detention on the night of her prom.
According to The Hollywood Reporter, Sony Pictures Worldwide Acquisitions has picked up worldwide rights to Detention Films' Detention, which bills itself as an apocalyptic, body-swapping, time-traveling teen romantic comedy.
“The pace, energy and awesomeness Kahn has achieved in Detention are completely mind-blowing in the best way possible,” said Spwa vp production Scott Shooman, who announced the acquistion along with Spwa senior vp business affairs Michael Helfand and Detention Films’ Abramoff and Weager.
Detention stars Dane Cook, Josh Hutcherson, Shanley Caswell, Spencer Locke, Parker Bagley, Alison Woods, Walter Perez, and Evan Williams. Look for more soon.
Synopsis:
The film follows a 17-year-old who is given detention on the night of her prom.
- 6/15/2011
- by Uncle Creepy
- DreadCentral.com
Sony Pictures Worldwide Acquisitions (Spwa) has picked up worldwide rights to Detention Films' Detention , which just took home the Youth Jury prize for best FutureWave Feature Film at the Seattle International Film Festival. The announcement was made by Spwa's Vice President of Production and Acquisitions Scott Shooman and Michael Helfand, Senior Vice President of Business Affairs, along with Detention Films' Bob Abramoff and Richard Weager. "This is the best apocalyptic fantasy, horror, science fiction, action-thriller, body swapping, time-traveling teen romantic comedy that we have ever screened. The pace, energy, and awesomeness Joseph Kahn has achieved in 'Detention' is completely mind-blowing in the best way possible," said Shooman. "I am thrilled for...
- 6/14/2011
- Comingsoon.net
Culver City, Ca (January 20, 2011) – Sony Pictures Worldwide Acquisitions (Spwa) announced today that it has acquired U.S. and Canadian rights to Morgan Spurlock’s The Greatest Movie Ever Sold, a playful yet thought provoking documentary examining the world of product placement, marketing and advertising through a film financed entirely by product placement, marketing and advertising. Sony Pictures Classics will open the film in North America this April. The announcement was made today by Spwa President Steve Bersch. Directed by Morgan Spurlock (Supersize Me), The Greatest Movie Ever Sold was written by Spurlock and Jeremy Chilnick, and produced by Spurlock, Chilnick and Abbie Hurewitz through Spurlock’s production company, Warrior Poets, alongside Snoot Entertainment producers Keith Calder and Jessica Wu. The deal was made by Spwa’s Scott Shooman and Michael Helfand with CAA. The film is scheduled to premiere at the 2011 Sundance Film Festival. From the billboards in Times Square...
- 1/20/2011
- by MIKE FLEMING
- Deadline
Sony Pictures Worldwide Acquisitions Group (Spwag) has announced that it has acquired U.S. rights to Atom Egoyan’s “Chloe,” which had its world premiere recently at the Toronto International Film Festival last month. Michael Helfand and Scott Shooman negotiated the low seven figure deal for Spwag and Harold van Lier and Anna Marsh negotiated for StudioCanal and the filmmakers. The film will be released theatrically in the first half of 2010. “Chloe” …...
- 10/9/2009
- Indiewire
Screen Gems has acquired the actioner spoof Armageddagain: The Day Before Tomorrow.
Robert Moniot is directing from a screenplay he co-wrote with Travis Oates. Shooting is set to begin in August for an 2008 release.
Noah Emmerich is producing through his Sandbox Entertainment shingle. Moniot also will produce through his Big Picture Entertainment banner alongside Phil Goldfine via his Hollywood Media Bridge.
ICM repped North American rights on the project, negotiating the sale with Screen Gems' Michael Helfand. Odd Lot International will handle foreign sales at the upcoming Festival de Cannes. Brian O'Shea and Laura Ivey brokered the deal on behalf of Odd Lot Entertainment.
Moniot is repped by ICM and the Gotham Group.
Robert Moniot is directing from a screenplay he co-wrote with Travis Oates. Shooting is set to begin in August for an 2008 release.
Noah Emmerich is producing through his Sandbox Entertainment shingle. Moniot also will produce through his Big Picture Entertainment banner alongside Phil Goldfine via his Hollywood Media Bridge.
ICM repped North American rights on the project, negotiating the sale with Screen Gems' Michael Helfand. Odd Lot International will handle foreign sales at the upcoming Festival de Cannes. Brian O'Shea and Laura Ivey brokered the deal on behalf of Odd Lot Entertainment.
Moniot is repped by ICM and the Gotham Group.
IMDb.com, Inc. takes no responsibility for the content or accuracy of the above news articles, Tweets, or blog posts. This content is published for the entertainment of our users only. The news articles, Tweets, and blog posts do not represent IMDb's opinions nor can we guarantee that the reporting therein is completely factual. Please visit the source responsible for the item in question to report any concerns you may have regarding content or accuracy.