Since the character’s inception on the big screen, Bond girls were a staple in most James Bond adaptations, until Casino Royale, as Daniel Craig refrained from using this term. But before Craig took the 007 gig and became the definitive modern James Bond, we had Pierce Brosnan as the charming British spy.
But unlike most Bond girls during the ’60s and ’70s, who were limited to being eye candy with ridiculous names, in Brosnan’s films, they defied those stereotypes. This was apparent in the character of Jinx Johnson, played by Halle Berry, who was even considered for her own spin-off film.
Halle Berry Was Closest to a Female James Bond in Die Another Day
A still from Halle Berry in Die Another Day | Metro-Goldwyn-Mayer
Unlike Bond girls in the past, Halle Berry had no problem going toe to toe with Pierce Brosnan‘s British Spy in Die Another Day,...
But unlike most Bond girls during the ’60s and ’70s, who were limited to being eye candy with ridiculous names, in Brosnan’s films, they defied those stereotypes. This was apparent in the character of Jinx Johnson, played by Halle Berry, who was even considered for her own spin-off film.
Halle Berry Was Closest to a Female James Bond in Die Another Day
A still from Halle Berry in Die Another Day | Metro-Goldwyn-Mayer
Unlike Bond girls in the past, Halle Berry had no problem going toe to toe with Pierce Brosnan‘s British Spy in Die Another Day,...
- 5/20/2024
- by Santanu Roy
- FandomWire
Film financier BondIt Media Capital has closed a new co-financing partnership with Cineverse for North American production, acquisition and distribution of film projects.
First up under the deal is distribution support for Cineverse (and its horror division Bloody Disgusting) for upcoming Terrifier 3, the third installment in the worldwide cult horror phenomenon featuring Art the Clown.
Micro-budget Terrifier 2 released in the fall of 2022 grossed more than $15 million in worldwide box office. The production companies behind the film, Dark Age Cinema and The Coven, re-teamed with filmmaker Damien Leone (and David Howard Thornton as Art the Clow) for Terrifier 3, which wrapped production in New York last month and is set for an October 11, 2024 theatrical release.
Cineverse (formerly Cinedigm) and led by former MGM chairman Chris McGurk has previously said the film will “unleash chaos on the unsuspecting residents of Miles County as they peacefully drift off to sleep on Christmas Eve.
First up under the deal is distribution support for Cineverse (and its horror division Bloody Disgusting) for upcoming Terrifier 3, the third installment in the worldwide cult horror phenomenon featuring Art the Clown.
Micro-budget Terrifier 2 released in the fall of 2022 grossed more than $15 million in worldwide box office. The production companies behind the film, Dark Age Cinema and The Coven, re-teamed with filmmaker Damien Leone (and David Howard Thornton as Art the Clow) for Terrifier 3, which wrapped production in New York last month and is set for an October 11, 2024 theatrical release.
Cineverse (formerly Cinedigm) and led by former MGM chairman Chris McGurk has previously said the film will “unleash chaos on the unsuspecting residents of Miles County as they peacefully drift off to sleep on Christmas Eve.
- 5/7/2024
- by Jill Goldsmith
- Deadline Film + TV
Filming is currently underway on Damien Leone’s hotly anticipated slasher sequel Terrifier 3 from Cineverse and Bloody Disgusting, and Leone shares a first look sneak peek today!
“Are you ready for more?” Leone writes on Instagram this morning, sharing a behind the scenes look at the return of Art the Clown (David Howard Thornton) from the set of Terrifier 3.
Check it out below and expect more soon…
Lauren Lavera (Terrifier 2) is back in this year’s big screen sequel to lead you through your deepest nightmares when horror icon Art the Clown unleashes chaos on the unsuspecting residents of Miles County as they peacefully drift off to sleep on Christmas Eve.
David Howard Thornton returns as Art the Clown, with Aew superstar Chris Jericho, Samantha Scaffidi, and Elliot Fullam also reprising their roles from last year’s Terrifier 2.
Damien Leone recently teased, “This one is going...
“Are you ready for more?” Leone writes on Instagram this morning, sharing a behind the scenes look at the return of Art the Clown (David Howard Thornton) from the set of Terrifier 3.
Check it out below and expect more soon…
Lauren Lavera (Terrifier 2) is back in this year’s big screen sequel to lead you through your deepest nightmares when horror icon Art the Clown unleashes chaos on the unsuspecting residents of Miles County as they peacefully drift off to sleep on Christmas Eve.
David Howard Thornton returns as Art the Clown, with Aew superstar Chris Jericho, Samantha Scaffidi, and Elliot Fullam also reprising their roles from last year’s Terrifier 2.
Damien Leone recently teased, “This one is going...
- 2/23/2024
- by John Squires
- bloody-disgusting.com
Film Mode has notched up sales in key territories led by the UK and Germany on horror mystery #Amfad All My Friends Are Dead which screens in the market tomorrow [Monday Feb 19].
Jade Pettyjohn and JoJo Siwa star in the tale of college friends who rent a home for a weekend music festival and start to die one by one in a series of murders corresponding to the Seven Deadly Sins.
Marcus Dunstan from the Saw franchise directed and also stars alongside John Baldecchi from Happy Death Day.
Clay Epstein and his Film Mode sales team have closed deals in Germany and...
Jade Pettyjohn and JoJo Siwa star in the tale of college friends who rent a home for a weekend music festival and start to die one by one in a series of murders corresponding to the Seven Deadly Sins.
Marcus Dunstan from the Saw franchise directed and also stars alongside John Baldecchi from Happy Death Day.
Clay Epstein and his Film Mode sales team have closed deals in Germany and...
- 2/18/2024
- ScreenDaily
Halle Berry joined the James Bond mythology after being cast as a Bond girl for Die Another Day. But one producer felt she played a much bigger role than Bond girls of the past.
Halle Berry was seen as the closest actor to a female James Bond in ‘Die Another Day’ Halle Berry | Axelle/Bauer-Griffin/FilmMagic
Berry was cast as Jinx in Brosnan’s last Bond film Die Another Day. Speaking with Vanity Fair, Berry reflected on how she ended up in the role in the first place. According to the actor, she didn’t have to audition for the part. But rather, it seemed producer Barbara Broccoli already had her in mind as Brosnan’s co-star.
Berry had plenty of reasons to accept the part from Broccoli, which included joining James Bond’s rich legacy.
“I was really excited about Bond because that’s a franchise that’s iconic,...
Halle Berry was seen as the closest actor to a female James Bond in ‘Die Another Day’ Halle Berry | Axelle/Bauer-Griffin/FilmMagic
Berry was cast as Jinx in Brosnan’s last Bond film Die Another Day. Speaking with Vanity Fair, Berry reflected on how she ended up in the role in the first place. According to the actor, she didn’t have to audition for the part. But rather, it seemed producer Barbara Broccoli already had her in mind as Brosnan’s co-star.
Berry had plenty of reasons to accept the part from Broccoli, which included joining James Bond’s rich legacy.
“I was really excited about Bond because that’s a franchise that’s iconic,...
- 1/3/2024
- by Antonio Stallings
- Showbiz Cheat Sheet
Headed down the chimney next Halloween season is Damien Leone’s hotly-anticipated Terrifier 3, and we’re thrilled to report that Lauren Lavera has officially signed on!
Cineverse, in partnership with Bloody Disgusting, announced today that Lauren Lavera will officially return in the unrated mega-slasher Terrifier 3, reprising her role as Sienna.
Her compelling performance resonated far and wide as the breakout star of the ultra-gory Terrifier 2, solidifying her status as a rising star in the horror realm. Lavera won over fans and critics worldwide who embraced her as the next Final Girl and Sienna costumes were seen all over conventions and Halloween events this year.
Now, as the story unfolds in Creator Damien Leone’s Terrifier 3, Lavera is back to lead you through your deepest nightmares when Art the Clown unleashes chaos on the unsuspecting residents of Miles County as they peacefully drift off to sleep on Christmas Eve.
Cineverse, in partnership with Bloody Disgusting, announced today that Lauren Lavera will officially return in the unrated mega-slasher Terrifier 3, reprising her role as Sienna.
Her compelling performance resonated far and wide as the breakout star of the ultra-gory Terrifier 2, solidifying her status as a rising star in the horror realm. Lavera won over fans and critics worldwide who embraced her as the next Final Girl and Sienna costumes were seen all over conventions and Halloween events this year.
Now, as the story unfolds in Creator Damien Leone’s Terrifier 3, Lavera is back to lead you through your deepest nightmares when Art the Clown unleashes chaos on the unsuspecting residents of Miles County as they peacefully drift off to sleep on Christmas Eve.
- 12/12/2023
- by John Squires
- bloody-disgusting.com
Variety has broken the news that the 1987 cult classic horror comedy Street Trash (buy it Here) is getting a remake from Ryan Kruger, the director of the 2020 body horror film Fried Barry! Production is already underway on the remake, which moves the story from Brooklyn to South Africa, and Cineverse has acquired the North American distribution rights. They’re planning to release the film through the Screambox streaming service sometime in 2024.
The original Street Trash was directed by J. Michael Muro from a screenplay by Roy Frumkes. Thirteen years ago, Frumkes said he was working on the script for Street Trash 2… but that sequel never made it into production. Thankfully, Muro and Frumkes are both involved with the remake. They’re executive producing it alongside Bad Dragon and Vinegar Syndrome.
The Street Trash remake follows a group of homeless misfits as they fight for survival when they discover a plot...
The original Street Trash was directed by J. Michael Muro from a screenplay by Roy Frumkes. Thirteen years ago, Frumkes said he was working on the script for Street Trash 2… but that sequel never made it into production. Thankfully, Muro and Frumkes are both involved with the remake. They’re executive producing it alongside Bad Dragon and Vinegar Syndrome.
The Street Trash remake follows a group of homeless misfits as they fight for survival when they discover a plot...
- 8/8/2023
- by Cody Hamman
- JoBlo.com
Get ready for a full load of face-melting gory goodness when Cineverse/Bloody Disgusting/Screambox reboot the 1987 cult classic Street Trash alongside Vinegar Syndrome!
Production is currently underway in various locations around Cape Town, South Africa for the film that is shot entirely on 35mm. The news was first reported by Variety.
Cineverse plans to release the film as a Screambox Original in early 2024.
From director Ryan Kruger, whose first independent feature Fried Barry played dozens of film festivals worldwide, Street Trash follows a group of homeless misfits as they fight for survival when they discover a plot to exterminate every homeless person in the city.
“Our reimagining of Street Trash takes place in Cape Town, South Africa where the growing divide between rich and poor has changed the world as we know it,” says Kruger. “I was a huge fan of the original Street Trash when I was a kid,...
Production is currently underway in various locations around Cape Town, South Africa for the film that is shot entirely on 35mm. The news was first reported by Variety.
Cineverse plans to release the film as a Screambox Original in early 2024.
From director Ryan Kruger, whose first independent feature Fried Barry played dozens of film festivals worldwide, Street Trash follows a group of homeless misfits as they fight for survival when they discover a plot to exterminate every homeless person in the city.
“Our reimagining of Street Trash takes place in Cape Town, South Africa where the growing divide between rich and poor has changed the world as we know it,” says Kruger. “I was a huge fan of the original Street Trash when I was a kid,...
- 8/8/2023
- by Brad Miska
- bloody-disgusting.com
Cineverse has acquired all North American rights to the reboot of the 1987 horror-comedy “Street Trash.” The reboot of the cult classic is helmed by “Fried Barry” director Ryan Kruger.
Over three decades after the slimy and grimy film’s debut, Kruger is moving this horror story out of Brooklyn and into a whole new continent with an even more potent message. “Our reimagining of Street Trash takes place in Cape Town, South Africa where the growing divide between rich and poor has changed the world as we know it,” said Kruger in a statement. “I was a huge fan of the original ‘Street Trash’ when I was a kid, and I couldn’t be more thrilled to introduce a whole new generation to the melted gonzo goodness that made the original such a classic.”
Per the film’s official logline, “’Street Trash’ follows a group of homeless misfits as they...
Over three decades after the slimy and grimy film’s debut, Kruger is moving this horror story out of Brooklyn and into a whole new continent with an even more potent message. “Our reimagining of Street Trash takes place in Cape Town, South Africa where the growing divide between rich and poor has changed the world as we know it,” said Kruger in a statement. “I was a huge fan of the original ‘Street Trash’ when I was a kid, and I couldn’t be more thrilled to introduce a whole new generation to the melted gonzo goodness that made the original such a classic.”
Per the film’s official logline, “’Street Trash’ follows a group of homeless misfits as they...
- 8/8/2023
- by Sophia Scorziello
- Variety Film + TV
A couple weeks ago, we heard that writer/director Damien Leone’s demonic clown film Terrifier 3 will have a budget somewhere “in the low-mid seven figure range” – an amount substantially higher than the $35,000 budget of the first Terrifier and the $250,000 Leone had to work with on Terrifier 2. Now Variety has learned that Cineverse Corp. has acquired the North American distribution rights to Terrifier 3 and will be giving the film a wide theatrical release sometime in the fall of 2024. Following the theatrical release, Terrifier 3 will be on the Cineverse streaming service Screambox.
Cineverse chairman and CEO Chris McGurk provided the following statement: “(Terrifier 2) achieved revenues of roughly 60 times the production cost and was powered almost exclusively by social marketing. We are thrilled that Damien and Phil have chosen to stay true to the franchise and keep the film uncut and independent vs. going the studio route.
Cineverse chairman and CEO Chris McGurk provided the following statement: “(Terrifier 2) achieved revenues of roughly 60 times the production cost and was powered almost exclusively by social marketing. We are thrilled that Damien and Phil have chosen to stay true to the franchise and keep the film uncut and independent vs. going the studio route.
- 6/12/2023
- by Cody Hamman
- JoBlo.com
Almost exactly one year ago, Bloody Disgusting started our reign of blood with Screambox, our very own streaming platform that’s now jam-packed with a unique blend of kickass horror films. The most notable is Terrifier 2, which challenged the theatrical model and changed the game for independent horror cinema last Halloween season.
I will never forget the first time I watched Terrifier 2, creator/director Damien Leone‘s slasher epic that continued Art the Clown’s bloody rampage from the original Terrifier movie. I sat in silence for several minutes just trying to absorb what I had witnessed. I was in shock and absolutely certain I had just experienced something truly special.
What was so exciting about Terrifier 2 was how defiant and unapologetic it felt. It had a punk rock vibe all the way through. In a time where everyone feels like they’re walking on eggshells, team...
I will never forget the first time I watched Terrifier 2, creator/director Damien Leone‘s slasher epic that continued Art the Clown’s bloody rampage from the original Terrifier movie. I sat in silence for several minutes just trying to absorb what I had witnessed. I was in shock and absolutely certain I had just experienced something truly special.
What was so exciting about Terrifier 2 was how defiant and unapologetic it felt. It had a punk rock vibe all the way through. In a time where everyone feels like they’re walking on eggshells, team...
- 6/12/2023
- by Brad Miska
- bloody-disgusting.com
At one point, Saw VI director Kevin Greutert was on board to direct a slasher movie called All My Friends Are Dead… but then Greutert got busy working on the upcoming sequel Saw X and ended up handing the helm over to Marcus Dunstan – the director of The Collector and co-writer of Saw VI. All My Friends Are Dead is now filming in Vancouver with Dunstan at the helm, and the first image from the film has been unveiled. You can take a look at this image, which features star Jade Pettyjohn of the School of Rock TV series, at the bottom of this article.
John Baldecchi is producing All My Friends Are Dead with Kirk Shaw and Stephanie Rennie, while Dominic Ianno, Sarah Donnelly, Jason Resnick, Suraj Gohill, Dan Rubin, Chris McGurk, Yolanda Macias, and Brad Miska serve as executive producers. Scripted by Josh Sims and Jessica Sarah Flaum,...
John Baldecchi is producing All My Friends Are Dead with Kirk Shaw and Stephanie Rennie, while Dominic Ianno, Sarah Donnelly, Jason Resnick, Suraj Gohill, Dan Rubin, Chris McGurk, Yolanda Macias, and Brad Miska serve as executive producers. Scripted by Josh Sims and Jessica Sarah Flaum,...
- 5/22/2023
- by Cody Hamman
- JoBlo.com
After 10 years as Cinedigm, the streaming and content distribution company is adopting a new moniker: Cineverse.
According to the company, which announced the name change Monday, the Cineverse rebranding “is an important step forward” in its “evolution into a streaming content and technology company — focused on transforming the way people discover and interact with a universe of films, television series and other streamed content all bound together by compelling and innovative storytelling.”
Along with the corporate name change to Cineverse Corp., the company’s stock symbol will also change from Cidm to Cnvs. The shares will begin trading on the Nasdaq Capital Market under the “Cnvs” ticker at the market opening on May 23.
Cineverse’s library comprises more than 60,000 film and TV titles and the company operates multiple ad-supported and subscription-based streaming services across multiple entertainment genres including anime, Asian entertainment, faith and family, horror and indie film. The flagship...
According to the company, which announced the name change Monday, the Cineverse rebranding “is an important step forward” in its “evolution into a streaming content and technology company — focused on transforming the way people discover and interact with a universe of films, television series and other streamed content all bound together by compelling and innovative storytelling.”
Along with the corporate name change to Cineverse Corp., the company’s stock symbol will also change from Cidm to Cnvs. The shares will begin trading on the Nasdaq Capital Market under the “Cnvs” ticker at the market opening on May 23.
Cineverse’s library comprises more than 60,000 film and TV titles and the company operates multiple ad-supported and subscription-based streaming services across multiple entertainment genres including anime, Asian entertainment, faith and family, horror and indie film. The flagship...
- 5/22/2023
- by Todd Spangler
- Variety Film + TV
Exclusive: As its stock price continues to languish, Cinedigm is following through on its stated plan to rebrand the company, emerging with the new name Cineverse in a bid to convey a long-under-way pivot to streaming.
A decade ago, Cineverse was primarily known as a purveyor of cinema equipment and technology. Under CEO Chris McGurk, the former MGM, Universal and Disney exec who took the helm in 2011, the company has steadily moved toward streaming. Today, it has a library of more than 60,000 film and TV titles and operates subscription and ad-supported services like flagship Cineverse as well as Fandor, the Dove Channel and CONtv.
“Today we officially turn the page to become Cineverse, a pure-play business in the exciting and dynamic streaming content and technology space,” McGurk said in the official announcement. Chief Strategy Officer and President Erick Opeka said it “made sense to consolidate our overall corporate identity under one brand.
A decade ago, Cineverse was primarily known as a purveyor of cinema equipment and technology. Under CEO Chris McGurk, the former MGM, Universal and Disney exec who took the helm in 2011, the company has steadily moved toward streaming. Today, it has a library of more than 60,000 film and TV titles and operates subscription and ad-supported services like flagship Cineverse as well as Fandor, the Dove Channel and CONtv.
“Today we officially turn the page to become Cineverse, a pure-play business in the exciting and dynamic streaming content and technology space,” McGurk said in the official announcement. Chief Strategy Officer and President Erick Opeka said it “made sense to consolidate our overall corporate identity under one brand.
- 5/22/2023
- by Dade Hayes
- Deadline Film + TV
Jade Pettyjohn and JoJo Siwa have grabbed lead roles in All My Friends Are Dead, a slasher pic from genre veteran and director Marcus Dunstan.
The project from Cinedigm, Roundtable Entertainment and Clay Epstein’s Film Mode Entertainment is shooting in Vancouver, Canada, with an ensemble cast that includes Jennifer Ens, Ali Fumiko Whitney, Justin Derickson, Julian Haig, Cardi Wong, Jack Doupe-Smith and Michaella Russell.
With a screenplay by Josh Sims and Jessica Sarah Flaum, All My Friends Are Dead follows college friends at a big music festival where a weekend of partying quickly becomes a nightmare as the group is murdered one by one. When the friends realize each horrific death corresponds to one of the seven deadly sins, it’s only a matter of time before everyone’s number is up.
Cinedigm already picked up the North American rights to the film financed by Banc of California, Budding Equity and others.
The project from Cinedigm, Roundtable Entertainment and Clay Epstein’s Film Mode Entertainment is shooting in Vancouver, Canada, with an ensemble cast that includes Jennifer Ens, Ali Fumiko Whitney, Justin Derickson, Julian Haig, Cardi Wong, Jack Doupe-Smith and Michaella Russell.
With a screenplay by Josh Sims and Jessica Sarah Flaum, All My Friends Are Dead follows college friends at a big music festival where a weekend of partying quickly becomes a nightmare as the group is murdered one by one. When the friends realize each horrific death corresponds to one of the seven deadly sins, it’s only a matter of time before everyone’s number is up.
Cinedigm already picked up the North American rights to the film financed by Banc of California, Budding Equity and others.
- 5/20/2023
- by Etan Vlessing
- The Hollywood Reporter - Movie News
The Conjuring producer Tony DeRosa-Grund wrote the initial story for The Conjuring, provided the film with its name, and created a road map for the franchise – and yet he hasn’t worked on any of the sequels or spin-offs that have followed. Now Cinedigm has announced that they’re teaming up with DeRosa-Grund to develop a new paranormal horror film called The Haunted, which they’re hoping will spawn another franchise on the level of the Conjuring movies.
The Haunted is said to be “based on verifiable events”. Story details are being kept under wraps, but Cinedigm did reveal that the first film in this hopefully-franchise-to-be begins with one family’s dark and terrifying real-life preternatural experiences which intersect with historical facts and legends surrounding a young pregnant woman accused by her own father of being a witch. That convergence places the family in impending mortal danger.
A press release...
The Haunted is said to be “based on verifiable events”. Story details are being kept under wraps, but Cinedigm did reveal that the first film in this hopefully-franchise-to-be begins with one family’s dark and terrifying real-life preternatural experiences which intersect with historical facts and legends surrounding a young pregnant woman accused by her own father of being a witch. That convergence places the family in impending mortal danger.
A press release...
- 5/12/2023
- by Cody Hamman
- JoBlo.com
We’re doing some huge things here with Cinedigm that go way beyond our Screambox streaming platform and massive podcast network. Today we announce a huge foray into film development beginning with The Haunted, a new paranormal horror franchise based on verifiable actual events.
Cinedigm will be partnering with horror heavyweight Tony DeRosa-Grund, creator of The Conjuring (over $2 billion in box office to date), to develop The Haunted. The news was first reported by Deadline.
“The Haunted franchise starts with one family’s dark and terrifying real-life preternatural experiences which intersect with historical facts and legends surrounding a young pregnant woman accused by her own father of being a witch. That convergence places the family in impending mortal danger.”
DeRosa-Grund, who previously wrote the original story for The Conjuring, named it, and created the “road map” for that franchise, aims to emulate that prior success by similarly building The Haunted universe through sequels,...
Cinedigm will be partnering with horror heavyweight Tony DeRosa-Grund, creator of The Conjuring (over $2 billion in box office to date), to develop The Haunted. The news was first reported by Deadline.
“The Haunted franchise starts with one family’s dark and terrifying real-life preternatural experiences which intersect with historical facts and legends surrounding a young pregnant woman accused by her own father of being a witch. That convergence places the family in impending mortal danger.”
DeRosa-Grund, who previously wrote the original story for The Conjuring, named it, and created the “road map” for that franchise, aims to emulate that prior success by similarly building The Haunted universe through sequels,...
- 5/12/2023
- by Bloody Disgusting Staff
- bloody-disgusting.com
Exclusive: Cinedigm and producer Tony DeRosa-Grund (The Conjuring) have partnered to develop a new paranormal horror franchise titled The Haunted.
Specific plot details are currently being kept under wraps but producers have said the stories will be based on “verifiable actual events,” with an initial focus on the real events experienced by a multi-generational family under siege from malevolent and violent supernatural forces.
DeRosa-Grund has completed a production script. Cinedigm and Bloody Disgusting and next looking to attach a Director before going into production with DeRosa-Grund producing through the Nverse Pictures banner later this year.
Early synopsis reads: The Haunted franchise starts with one family’s dark and terrifying real-life preternatural experiences which intersect with historical facts and legends surrounding a young pregnant woman accused by her own father of being a witch. That convergence places the family in impending mortal danger.
DeRosa-Grund, who is best known for his work on The Conjuring,...
Specific plot details are currently being kept under wraps but producers have said the stories will be based on “verifiable actual events,” with an initial focus on the real events experienced by a multi-generational family under siege from malevolent and violent supernatural forces.
DeRosa-Grund has completed a production script. Cinedigm and Bloody Disgusting and next looking to attach a Director before going into production with DeRosa-Grund producing through the Nverse Pictures banner later this year.
Early synopsis reads: The Haunted franchise starts with one family’s dark and terrifying real-life preternatural experiences which intersect with historical facts and legends surrounding a young pregnant woman accused by her own father of being a witch. That convergence places the family in impending mortal danger.
DeRosa-Grund, who is best known for his work on The Conjuring,...
- 5/12/2023
- by Zac Ntim
- Deadline Film + TV
Exclusive: Following a competitive situation, Bad Robot has acquired rights to adapt Mona Awad’s bestselling novel Bunny into a feature film. The novel gained a loyal fan base after blowing up on BookTok and is currently in its 14th printing, spurred by TikTok videos totaling more than 4.1 billion views after a Bunny movie fan-casting hashtag went viral.
Related Story Blake Lively & Justin Baldoni To Star In ‘It Ends With Us’; Baldoni Also Directing Sony And Wayfarer Studios‘ Adaptation Of Colleen Hoover Novel Related Story AMC To Adapt Mona Awad's 'Bunny' Novel For TV; Megan Mostyn-Brown To Pen Pilot Related Story Cinedigm CEO Chris McGurk Announces Buyback Of Up To 10M Shares Of Company's Ailing Stock, Also Sets Name Change Timed To "Momentous" Pivot From Cinema Tech To Streaming
The story follows Samantha Heather Mackey, who couldn’t be more of an outsider in her small, highly selective...
Related Story Blake Lively & Justin Baldoni To Star In ‘It Ends With Us’; Baldoni Also Directing Sony And Wayfarer Studios‘ Adaptation Of Colleen Hoover Novel Related Story AMC To Adapt Mona Awad's 'Bunny' Novel For TV; Megan Mostyn-Brown To Pen Pilot Related Story Cinedigm CEO Chris McGurk Announces Buyback Of Up To 10M Shares Of Company's Ailing Stock, Also Sets Name Change Timed To "Momentous" Pivot From Cinema Tech To Streaming
The story follows Samantha Heather Mackey, who couldn’t be more of an outsider in her small, highly selective...
- 3/2/2023
- by Justin Kroll
- Deadline Film + TV
Cinedigm CEO Chris McGurk says the company plans to buy back up to 10 million shares of its beleaguered stock over the next 12 months as it looks to avoid getting delisted from the Nasdaq.
In a letter to shareholders, the former senior exec at Universal, Disney and MGM who has been in the top job at Cinedigm since 2011 also said the company plans to rename itself in the coming months. Having recently wrapped a years-long effort to shift its strategic focus from cinema technology to streaming, the company sees the rebrand as helping it to “reflect this momentous turning point” and “accentuate our position and narrative,” McGurk wrote.
Shares in Cinedigm gained 5% on nearly triple their average trading volume to close at 52.5 cents. That’s roughly the mid-point of the stock’s range over the past year, but also well below the one-dollar threshold established by the Nasdaq for all companies listed on its exchange.
In a letter to shareholders, the former senior exec at Universal, Disney and MGM who has been in the top job at Cinedigm since 2011 also said the company plans to rename itself in the coming months. Having recently wrapped a years-long effort to shift its strategic focus from cinema technology to streaming, the company sees the rebrand as helping it to “reflect this momentous turning point” and “accentuate our position and narrative,” McGurk wrote.
Shares in Cinedigm gained 5% on nearly triple their average trading volume to close at 52.5 cents. That’s roughly the mid-point of the stock’s range over the past year, but also well below the one-dollar threshold established by the Nasdaq for all companies listed on its exchange.
- 3/2/2023
- by Dade Hayes
- Deadline Film + TV
Digital media company Cinedigm Corp. has acquired the streaming service Christian Cinema and Dove.org, a movie review site for Christian-themed films.
Terms of the deals were not disclosed, but they expand Cinedigm’s presence in the faith and family content space. Dove.org is a movie review and ratings service, and the transaction will see the property combined with Cinedigm’s existing streamer Dove Channel.
Christian Cinema, acquired from the Giving Company, is a video-on-demand service for faith-based films, and allows consumers to buy or rent movies with Christian values. Christian Cinema is also available via Apple TV, iOS, Android, Roku, Chromecast, Amazon Fire TV, and Amazon Fire tablets.
“This pair of acquisitions immediately provides us with an established consumer base, immediately accretive revenue, and multiple new avenues for growth. Much like we have done in other verticals, we expect to dramatically ramp up our offerings in original theatrical releases,...
Terms of the deals were not disclosed, but they expand Cinedigm’s presence in the faith and family content space. Dove.org is a movie review and ratings service, and the transaction will see the property combined with Cinedigm’s existing streamer Dove Channel.
Christian Cinema, acquired from the Giving Company, is a video-on-demand service for faith-based films, and allows consumers to buy or rent movies with Christian values. Christian Cinema is also available via Apple TV, iOS, Android, Roku, Chromecast, Amazon Fire TV, and Amazon Fire tablets.
“This pair of acquisitions immediately provides us with an established consumer base, immediately accretive revenue, and multiple new avenues for growth. Much like we have done in other verticals, we expect to dramatically ramp up our offerings in original theatrical releases,...
- 2/28/2023
- by Etan Vlessing
- The Hollywood Reporter - Movie News
After seven years and as many acquisitions, Cinedigm CEO Chris McGurk bundled his company’s 30 best streaming assets — including The El Rey Network, Fandor, Documrama, and The Elvis Presley Channel — into free ad-supported network Cineverse, which launched September 15. McGurk believes “if we achieve our loftiest dreams,” Cineverse could eventually compete with the top-tier streamers.
How lofty are those dreams? Your answer may depend on how much faith you’d place in an Elvis Presley deepfake.
Speaking to IndieWire in a phone interview, McGurk said he sees his bundle as being “kind of like Spotify, in a way” — only for TV and independent film. He believes Cineverse represents an opportunity that major streamers have overlooked, to their tremendous detriment; he believes they are “collectively losing 10 billion a year.”
Cineverse is built on Cinedigm’s proprietary Matchpoint technology, which allows its users to “create and manage compelling ad-supported and subscription-based video streaming...
How lofty are those dreams? Your answer may depend on how much faith you’d place in an Elvis Presley deepfake.
Speaking to IndieWire in a phone interview, McGurk said he sees his bundle as being “kind of like Spotify, in a way” — only for TV and independent film. He believes Cineverse represents an opportunity that major streamers have overlooked, to their tremendous detriment; he believes they are “collectively losing 10 billion a year.”
Cineverse is built on Cinedigm’s proprietary Matchpoint technology, which allows its users to “create and manage compelling ad-supported and subscription-based video streaming...
- 9/26/2022
- by Tony Maglio
- Indiewire
Initiative includes 10-strong thriller slate.
Dominic Ianno’s new Hollywood content creator Roundtable Entertainment and Cinedigm have struck a multi-film financing, producing, distribution and streaming channel partnership.
Cinedigm takes a minority shareholder position in Roundtable and will distribute original content from the partnership on its Ott networks and third-party platforms.
Early activity includes a $15m slate of 10 thriller features led by All My Friends Are Dead. Kevin Greutert of the Saw franchise will direct the story about friends who start to die one by one during a weekend music festival in a series of killings linked to the Seven Deadly Sins.
Dominic Ianno’s new Hollywood content creator Roundtable Entertainment and Cinedigm have struck a multi-film financing, producing, distribution and streaming channel partnership.
Cinedigm takes a minority shareholder position in Roundtable and will distribute original content from the partnership on its Ott networks and third-party platforms.
Early activity includes a $15m slate of 10 thriller features led by All My Friends Are Dead. Kevin Greutert of the Saw franchise will direct the story about friends who start to die one by one during a weekend music festival in a series of killings linked to the Seven Deadly Sins.
- 3/17/2022
- by Jeremy Kay
- ScreenDaily
Initiative includes 10-strong thriller slate.
Dominic Ianno’s new Hollywood content creator Roundtable Entertainment and Cinedigm have struck a multi-film financing, producing, distribution and streaming channel partnership.
Cinedigm takes a minority shareholder position in Roundtable and will distribute original content from the partnership on its Ott networks and third-party platforms.
Early activity includes a $15m slate of 10 thriller features led by All My Friends Are Dead. Kevin Greutert of the Saw franchise will direct the story about friends who start to die one by one during a weekend music festival in a series of killings linked to the Seven Deadly Sins.
Dominic Ianno’s new Hollywood content creator Roundtable Entertainment and Cinedigm have struck a multi-film financing, producing, distribution and streaming channel partnership.
Cinedigm takes a minority shareholder position in Roundtable and will distribute original content from the partnership on its Ott networks and third-party platforms.
Early activity includes a $15m slate of 10 thriller features led by All My Friends Are Dead. Kevin Greutert of the Saw franchise will direct the story about friends who start to die one by one during a weekend music festival in a series of killings linked to the Seven Deadly Sins.
- 3/17/2022
- by Jeremy Kay
- ScreenDaily
Exclusive: Recently launched production company Roundtable Entertainment has received minority investment from streaming company Cinedigm.
As part of the deal the companies will co-finance and co-own the IP of original films to be distributed domestically on Cinedigm’s Ott networks and on other third-party streaming platforms.
The partnership also plans to launch streaming channels together. Erick Opeka, Cinedigm’s President and Chief Strategy Officer, will be taking a seat on Roundtable’s Board of Directors, joining President and CEO Dominic Ianno, Robert Norton and James Fields of Klingenstein Fields Advisors.
The partnership kicks off with a 10-picture, $15M thriller slate, led by All My Friends Are Dead, directed by Kevin Greutert, director and editor on multiple Saw movies. The film will tell the tale of a group of close college friends who get a great deal on a killer Airbnb for the biggest music festival of the year. A weekend...
As part of the deal the companies will co-finance and co-own the IP of original films to be distributed domestically on Cinedigm’s Ott networks and on other third-party streaming platforms.
The partnership also plans to launch streaming channels together. Erick Opeka, Cinedigm’s President and Chief Strategy Officer, will be taking a seat on Roundtable’s Board of Directors, joining President and CEO Dominic Ianno, Robert Norton and James Fields of Klingenstein Fields Advisors.
The partnership kicks off with a 10-picture, $15M thriller slate, led by All My Friends Are Dead, directed by Kevin Greutert, director and editor on multiple Saw movies. The film will tell the tale of a group of close college friends who get a great deal on a killer Airbnb for the biggest music festival of the year. A weekend...
- 3/17/2022
- by Andreas Wiseman
- Deadline Film + TV
Cinedigm, which has been steadily expanding its streaming portfolio in recent years, is adding 10 new channels, 7,500 titles and entering the ad network business by acquiring Digital Media Rights.
Founded by Michael Hong and David Chu, Dmr is a distributor, channel and ad network operator and social video curator. The privately held company is understood to be profitable, with more than $10 million a year in revenue, according to a person familiar with its books.
Financial terms were not specified in the announcement of the deal, but a source pegged it in the $20 million to $25 million range.
After the transaction, Cinedigm will control more than 30 streaming services, 15 of which are wholly owned. Their 46,000 hours of programming attracting 40 million monthly viewers. The deal will also position Cinedigm in the ad network business for the first time, with Dmr’s network recording more than 100 million impressions a month from connected TVs.
Dmr’s roster...
Founded by Michael Hong and David Chu, Dmr is a distributor, channel and ad network operator and social video curator. The privately held company is understood to be profitable, with more than $10 million a year in revenue, according to a person familiar with its books.
Financial terms were not specified in the announcement of the deal, but a source pegged it in the $20 million to $25 million range.
After the transaction, Cinedigm will control more than 30 streaming services, 15 of which are wholly owned. Their 46,000 hours of programming attracting 40 million monthly viewers. The deal will also position Cinedigm in the ad network business for the first time, with Dmr’s network recording more than 100 million impressions a month from connected TVs.
Dmr’s roster...
- 1/6/2022
- by Dade Hayes
- Deadline Film + TV
Exclusive: Independent streaming company Cinedigm has named Ashok Amritraj to its Board of Directors, effective immediately.
Amritraj is Chairman and CEO of Hyde Park Inc. and brings an exceptionally diverse resume that has seen him wearing the whites of Wimbledon, excelling as an award-winning producer and serving as a United Nations India Goodwill Ambassador. The former professional tennis player turned Hollywood producer has a feature career that has spanned more than 100 movies in a 35-year-plus career including such titles as Ghost Rider: Spirit of Vengeance, Bringing Down the House, Walking Tall and the SAG and Golden Globe nominated drama 99 Homes. Amritraj has worked with some of the biggest stars in the business including Dwayne “The Rock” Johnson, Bruce Willis, Sandra Bullock, Idris Elba, Angelina Jolie, Queen Latifah, Michael Shannon, Andrew Garfield and Jennifer Aniston. He also established Hyde Park Entertainment Asia to produce films and television series from Asian and Indian creators.
Amritraj is Chairman and CEO of Hyde Park Inc. and brings an exceptionally diverse resume that has seen him wearing the whites of Wimbledon, excelling as an award-winning producer and serving as a United Nations India Goodwill Ambassador. The former professional tennis player turned Hollywood producer has a feature career that has spanned more than 100 movies in a 35-year-plus career including such titles as Ghost Rider: Spirit of Vengeance, Bringing Down the House, Walking Tall and the SAG and Golden Globe nominated drama 99 Homes. Amritraj has worked with some of the biggest stars in the business including Dwayne “The Rock” Johnson, Bruce Willis, Sandra Bullock, Idris Elba, Angelina Jolie, Queen Latifah, Michael Shannon, Andrew Garfield and Jennifer Aniston. He also established Hyde Park Entertainment Asia to produce films and television series from Asian and Indian creators.
- 8/10/2021
- by Anthony D'Alessandro
- Deadline Film + TV
Filmmaker Robert Rodriguez has taken El Rey Network — once a linear cable TV channel — and revived the Latino-focused brand for the streaming era in partnership with Cinedigm.
Launched in 2013, El Rey Network at its peak reached over 40 million pay-tv households. The cable channel, stocked with a range of English-language scripted and unscripted programming catering to Latino audiences and beyond, shut down at the end of 2020.
In partnership with Cinedigm, El Rey Network will relaunch as a free-to-watch over-the-top streaming service available on platforms including connected TVs, digital set-top boxes, media-streaming devices and the web. In addition, Cinedigm will work with El Rey to ink deals with advertisers for custom content. Cinedigm also will exclusively distribute Rodriguez’s feature film “Red 11” and a companion docuseries, “Rebel Without A Crew: The Robert Rodriguez Film School,” to Ott platforms.
The date of the El Rey Network streaming channel launch has yet to be determined.
Launched in 2013, El Rey Network at its peak reached over 40 million pay-tv households. The cable channel, stocked with a range of English-language scripted and unscripted programming catering to Latino audiences and beyond, shut down at the end of 2020.
In partnership with Cinedigm, El Rey Network will relaunch as a free-to-watch over-the-top streaming service available on platforms including connected TVs, digital set-top boxes, media-streaming devices and the web. In addition, Cinedigm will work with El Rey to ink deals with advertisers for custom content. Cinedigm also will exclusively distribute Rodriguez’s feature film “Red 11” and a companion docuseries, “Rebel Without A Crew: The Robert Rodriguez Film School,” to Ott platforms.
The date of the El Rey Network streaming channel launch has yet to be determined.
- 8/6/2021
- by Todd Spangler
- Variety Film + TV
When Trevor Hawkins wanted to finance his debut feature, “Lotawana,” he did it the old-fashioned way; He took out a second mortgage. Now that the film is done, he’s taking a distinctly 21st-century approach by creating two types of non-fungible tokens, or NFTs: At $1,000 each, there’s 1,000 tokens that represent ownership shares that give profit participation as well as $100 tokens to access the movie’s online premiere.
“It was risky to make the movie itself,” he said Hawkins, a veteran director of commercials and shorts whose work has been featured by National Geographic. “When this came along, we felt it was a way to differentiate ourselves. This was a huge risk as well, but it feels right. We’re just a little bit ahead of the curve here … my personal opinion is that it’s here to stay.” Hawkins said that after 500 of the $1,000 shares are sold, the film...
“It was risky to make the movie itself,” he said Hawkins, a veteran director of commercials and shorts whose work has been featured by National Geographic. “When this came along, we felt it was a way to differentiate ourselves. This was a huge risk as well, but it feels right. We’re just a little bit ahead of the curve here … my personal opinion is that it’s here to stay.” Hawkins said that after 500 of the $1,000 shares are sold, the film...
- 4/8/2021
- by Chris Lindahl
- Indiewire
It wasn’t just Disney and Netflix that benefited from streaming’s supercharged rise amid a year that saw most people confined to their homes far more than they would like. Cinedigm, once known for its home entertainment and movie projector business, is now one of the biggest streaming players that you’ve never heard of — unless you happen to be a massive fan of the late art instructor Bob Ross. “That’s our franchise; that’s our sequels and universes. The big boys? Let them kill each other and dramatically ratchet up the programming costs and get them into the same cost spiral that they got into in the theatrical business, which made it so unprofitable over time,” Chris McGurk, Cinedigm’s chairman and CEO, told TheWrap. “We’ll focus on offering volume a portfolio of services with people like Bob Ross. That’s our winning strategy.” Also Read:...
- 2/15/2021
- by Tim Baysinger
- The Wrap
Cinedigm is continuing its acquisition spree, acquiring the horror streaming service Screambox, TheWrap can exclusively report.
Screambox will continue to be offered on an ad-free subscription basis — the service costs $4.99 a month or $35.88 for the full year — and Cinedigm will use its horror channel that it has in partnership with Bloody Disgusting, to help drive additional subscribers. Screambox will also be bundled with Cinedigm’s fandom streaming service, CONtv.
Larry Baird, longtime Screambox chief operating officer, will remain on board to oversee the transition.
Cinedigm will leverage its substantial horror and thriller content library, app technology and Matchpoint distribution platform to rapidly expand Screambox’s content offering. It will relaunch the service’s apps and dramatically expand distribution to Cinedigm’s 900 million-plus global connected device footprint. Cinedigm also plans to expand the distribution of Screambox to its base of third-party subscription channel partners, including Roku, Comcast, SlingTV and Dish Network.
Screambox will continue to be offered on an ad-free subscription basis — the service costs $4.99 a month or $35.88 for the full year — and Cinedigm will use its horror channel that it has in partnership with Bloody Disgusting, to help drive additional subscribers. Screambox will also be bundled with Cinedigm’s fandom streaming service, CONtv.
Larry Baird, longtime Screambox chief operating officer, will remain on board to oversee the transition.
Cinedigm will leverage its substantial horror and thriller content library, app technology and Matchpoint distribution platform to rapidly expand Screambox’s content offering. It will relaunch the service’s apps and dramatically expand distribution to Cinedigm’s 900 million-plus global connected device footprint. Cinedigm also plans to expand the distribution of Screambox to its base of third-party subscription channel partners, including Roku, Comcast, SlingTV and Dish Network.
- 2/12/2021
- by Tim Baysinger
- The Wrap
Cinedigm has acquired Fandor, a 10-year-old streaming home for independent films, and plans to update and expand its offerings with a goal of acquiring millions of subscribers.
The company will relaunch Fandor later this year by tapping its own library of 7,000 related film titles, including from internet television service and vintage film archive The Film Detective. In a press release announcing the deal, Cinedigm said it “anticipates the service could reach seven-figure subscriber levels within the next 24-30 months with a focus on rapid global expansion and distribution.”
Fandor, which was run at various points in its history by noted film and TV industry executives Larry Aidem and Ted Hope, has an eclectic, global library 4,600 film titles from more than 400 film companies.
Cinedigm will continue to offer an ad-free, premium version of Fandor but also plans to add a free, ad-supported on-demand tier as well as a linear streaming channel...
The company will relaunch Fandor later this year by tapping its own library of 7,000 related film titles, including from internet television service and vintage film archive The Film Detective. In a press release announcing the deal, Cinedigm said it “anticipates the service could reach seven-figure subscriber levels within the next 24-30 months with a focus on rapid global expansion and distribution.”
Fandor, which was run at various points in its history by noted film and TV industry executives Larry Aidem and Ted Hope, has an eclectic, global library 4,600 film titles from more than 400 film companies.
Cinedigm will continue to offer an ad-free, premium version of Fandor but also plans to add a free, ad-supported on-demand tier as well as a linear streaming channel...
- 1/19/2021
- by Dade Hayes
- Deadline Film + TV
Cinedigm continues its rollup of niche streaming brands: The company has acquired the assets of Fandor, a subscription-streaming service with a catalog of 4,600 films that has been in hibernation mode for the last two years.
In late 2018, Fandor laid off nearly all of its employees and reorganized as a new entity that was seeking a buyer for the Fandor assets.
Terms of Cinedigm’s acquisition of Fandor aren’t being disclosed. In announcing the deal, Cinedigm said it believes the relaunched Fandor service could top 1 million subscribers “within the next 24-30 months” with a focus on rapid global expansion and distribution.
Cinedigm will continue to offer the service to subscribers without ads and also plans to offer a free, ad-supported on-demand tier for Fandor as well as a linear streaming channel. In addition, Cinedigm plans to beef up Fandor’s offerings with some of the 7,000-plus films titles in the...
In late 2018, Fandor laid off nearly all of its employees and reorganized as a new entity that was seeking a buyer for the Fandor assets.
Terms of Cinedigm’s acquisition of Fandor aren’t being disclosed. In announcing the deal, Cinedigm said it believes the relaunched Fandor service could top 1 million subscribers “within the next 24-30 months” with a focus on rapid global expansion and distribution.
Cinedigm will continue to offer the service to subscribers without ads and also plans to offer a free, ad-supported on-demand tier for Fandor as well as a linear streaming channel. In addition, Cinedigm plans to beef up Fandor’s offerings with some of the 7,000-plus films titles in the...
- 1/19/2021
- by Todd Spangler
- Variety Film + TV
Indie streamer Fandor has a new home at independent entertainment studio Cinedigm, which picked up the subscription service and will add it to its growing collection of streaming services. Per an official press release, “Cinedigm plans to leverage its substantial content library, technology, engineering, and distribution capabilities to rapidly expand Fandor’s content offering, relaunch the service’s apps and dramatically expand distribution to Cinedigm’s global footprint of over 900 million connected devices.”
As part of this new purchase, Cinedigm “plans on ramping up new and existing content partnerships with distribution partners from around the globe to make Fandor the preeminent destination for emerging global voices.” Cinedigm will continue to offer the service ad-free, but the studio also plans to offer a free, ad-supported on-demand tier as well as a linear streaming channel to further broaden the service’s reach to audiences of all viewing preferences.
In recent years, Cinedigm...
As part of this new purchase, Cinedigm “plans on ramping up new and existing content partnerships with distribution partners from around the globe to make Fandor the preeminent destination for emerging global voices.” Cinedigm will continue to offer the service ad-free, but the studio also plans to offer a free, ad-supported on-demand tier as well as a linear streaming channel to further broaden the service’s reach to audiences of all viewing preferences.
In recent years, Cinedigm...
- 1/19/2021
- by Kate Erbland
- Indiewire
Digital media company Cinedigm Corp. is to acquire the Fandor indie film streaming service as it expands its presence in the online space.
Terms of the deal were not disclosed, but Chris McGurk’s digital venture is acquiring Fandor’s library of independent films, documentaries and international features with, in all, around 4600 titles. Cinedigm aims to leverage its own content library, technology and distribution abilities to expand Fandor’s content offering, while also relaunching the service’s apps and increasing its distribution worldwide.
In a statement, the company said a reboot of Fandor was expected to get the streaming ...
Terms of the deal were not disclosed, but Chris McGurk’s digital venture is acquiring Fandor’s library of independent films, documentaries and international features with, in all, around 4600 titles. Cinedigm aims to leverage its own content library, technology and distribution abilities to expand Fandor’s content offering, while also relaunching the service’s apps and increasing its distribution worldwide.
In a statement, the company said a reboot of Fandor was expected to get the streaming ...
- 1/19/2021
- The Hollywood Reporter - Movie News
Digital media company Cinedigm Corp. is to acquire the Fandor indie film streaming service as it expands its presence in the online space.
Terms of the deal were not disclosed, but Chris McGurk’s digital venture is acquiring Fandor’s library of independent films, documentaries and international features with, in all, around 4600 titles. Cinedigm aims to leverage its own content library, technology and distribution abilities to expand Fandor’s content offering, while also relaunching the service’s apps and increasing its distribution worldwide.
In a statement, the company said a reboot of Fandor was expected to get the streaming ...
Terms of the deal were not disclosed, but Chris McGurk’s digital venture is acquiring Fandor’s library of independent films, documentaries and international features with, in all, around 4600 titles. Cinedigm aims to leverage its own content library, technology and distribution abilities to expand Fandor’s content offering, while also relaunching the service’s apps and increasing its distribution worldwide.
In a statement, the company said a reboot of Fandor was expected to get the streaming ...
- 1/19/2021
- The Hollywood Reporter - Film + TV
Cinedigm Corp. has agreed to buy classic film-television specialist The Film Detective for an undisclosed price.
Cinedigm announced the transaction Monday. The U.S.-based company said the deal will give it the Film Detective library, comprised of 3,000 content titles, an estimated 10,000 individual film and TV episodes. Cinedigm will also gain The Film Detective movie streaming channel and Lone Star, a channel specializing in Westerns, along with being able to license 1,000 additional movies.
Since launching in 2014, The Film Detective has distributed its library through Turner Classic Movies, NBC’s Cozi TV, Epix, Pluto TV, Amazon, MeTV and PBS. The Film Detective will continue to operate independently under the leadership of Philip Hopkins, founder and chief executive officer. Hopkins will assume the new title of president of The Film Detective.
“Phil Hopkins has been a leading long-term industry champion for independent film and TV content, particularly classic programming, building The Film Detective into a content powerhouse,...
Cinedigm announced the transaction Monday. The U.S.-based company said the deal will give it the Film Detective library, comprised of 3,000 content titles, an estimated 10,000 individual film and TV episodes. Cinedigm will also gain The Film Detective movie streaming channel and Lone Star, a channel specializing in Westerns, along with being able to license 1,000 additional movies.
Since launching in 2014, The Film Detective has distributed its library through Turner Classic Movies, NBC’s Cozi TV, Epix, Pluto TV, Amazon, MeTV and PBS. The Film Detective will continue to operate independently under the leadership of Philip Hopkins, founder and chief executive officer. Hopkins will assume the new title of president of The Film Detective.
“Phil Hopkins has been a leading long-term industry champion for independent film and TV content, particularly classic programming, building The Film Detective into a content powerhouse,...
- 10/19/2020
- by Dave McNary
- Variety Film + TV
Cinedigm, which has pivoted its former cinema equipment business to streaming, reported a few bright spots in its fiscal fourth quarter despite continued red ink.
The company, which has built a portfolio of streaming services such as CONtv and Docurama, reported total revenue of $39.3 million in the quarter ending March 31, a 27% drop from the year-ago period. The company blamed the slide on the decline of its legacy cinema equipment business. Net losses per share narrowed to 34 cents from 44 cents in the year-ago period.
The news was better in the streaming unit, where adjusted Ebitda was $700,000 in the period, a $3.5 million swing into positive territory.
The company’s portfolio of 16 streaming services collectively reached 13.2 million monthly ad-supported viewers by May 31 and 9.7 million by March 31, nearly triple the level of last year.
For the full fiscal year, including digital content licensing, overall streaming revenue climbed 31% year-over-year, with total sales billings of $24.4 million.
The company, which has built a portfolio of streaming services such as CONtv and Docurama, reported total revenue of $39.3 million in the quarter ending March 31, a 27% drop from the year-ago period. The company blamed the slide on the decline of its legacy cinema equipment business. Net losses per share narrowed to 34 cents from 44 cents in the year-ago period.
The news was better in the streaming unit, where adjusted Ebitda was $700,000 in the period, a $3.5 million swing into positive territory.
The company’s portfolio of 16 streaming services collectively reached 13.2 million monthly ad-supported viewers by May 31 and 9.7 million by March 31, nearly triple the level of last year.
For the full fiscal year, including digital content licensing, overall streaming revenue climbed 31% year-over-year, with total sales billings of $24.4 million.
- 7/6/2020
- by Dade Hayes
- Deadline Film + TV
Ott platform Future Today said Monday it’s merger agreement with Cinedigm has been terminated and it’s entered into a content licensing arrangement with the company instead to extend its content offering.
The merger agreement, worth about $60 million, was announced a year ago.
More from DeadlineViacomCBS' Ott Crown Jewel, Pluto TV, Unveils Upgrade, Marketing BlitzAT&t Rolls Out New Hybrid Ott Service - AT&T TV - NationwideUnivision's Next Chapter: Incoming CEO Wade Davis Sees Dtc & Ott Opportunities For Giant Spanish-Language Broadcaster
Future Today is privately held and majority owned by founders Alok Ranjan and Vikrant Mathur, who started the company in 2006. In a statement Monday, they declined to elaborate on why the deal with Los Angeles-based company run by Chris McGurk didn’t close but said it was an amicable parting of ways.
But the company did report that February marked the best performance ever of its channels,...
The merger agreement, worth about $60 million, was announced a year ago.
More from DeadlineViacomCBS' Ott Crown Jewel, Pluto TV, Unveils Upgrade, Marketing BlitzAT&t Rolls Out New Hybrid Ott Service - AT&T TV - NationwideUnivision's Next Chapter: Incoming CEO Wade Davis Sees Dtc & Ott Opportunities For Giant Spanish-Language Broadcaster
Future Today is privately held and majority owned by founders Alok Ranjan and Vikrant Mathur, who started the company in 2006. In a statement Monday, they declined to elaborate on why the deal with Los Angeles-based company run by Chris McGurk didn’t close but said it was an amicable parting of ways.
But the company did report that February marked the best performance ever of its channels,...
- 3/16/2020
- by Jill Goldsmith
- Deadline Film + TV
Cinedigm, which has been redirecting its focus from cinema equipment to streaming video, said Content Entertainment Group President Bill Sondheim is exiting the company.
Yolanda Macias, who is Evp of the group, and Svp Dan Coyle, will now oversee the content division.
The executive reshuffling follows the announcement last month that Cinedigm is acquiring ad-supported streaming platform Future Today Inc.
Macías, a Cinedigm exec since 2013, has previously held posts at DirecTV, Technicolor and Disney. Coyle, who also joined the company in 2013, had executive roles at Gaiam, which was acquired by Cinedigm, and before that at Goodtimes Entertainment.
Sondheim will remain a consultant at Cindedigm. “I’d like to thank Cinedigm Chairman and CEO Chris McGurk for providing me with some incredible experiences and growth opportunities over the past five years,” he said. Chris has charted a smart and bold strategic direction for Cinedigm with his commitment to expand digital channels...
Yolanda Macias, who is Evp of the group, and Svp Dan Coyle, will now oversee the content division.
The executive reshuffling follows the announcement last month that Cinedigm is acquiring ad-supported streaming platform Future Today Inc.
Macías, a Cinedigm exec since 2013, has previously held posts at DirecTV, Technicolor and Disney. Coyle, who also joined the company in 2013, had executive roles at Gaiam, which was acquired by Cinedigm, and before that at Goodtimes Entertainment.
Sondheim will remain a consultant at Cindedigm. “I’d like to thank Cinedigm Chairman and CEO Chris McGurk for providing me with some incredible experiences and growth opportunities over the past five years,” he said. Chris has charted a smart and bold strategic direction for Cinedigm with his commitment to expand digital channels...
- 4/3/2019
- by Dade Hayes
- Deadline Film + TV
Digital entertainment company Cinedigm on Friday announced plans to acquire Future Today Inc., a video platform company and Avod channel network, for $45 million in cash and $15 million in Cinedigm common stock.
Future Today brings with it a network of 5.2 million monthly active users, which, combined with Cinedigm’s 2.4 million, will create a combined user base of over 7.6 million monthly viewers. Future Today reported that it has positive cash flow, with revenues increasing by more than 100 percent in 2018 to around $23.9 million in full-year revenues.
Future Today co-founders CEO Alok Ranjan and Vikrant Mathur will continue to lead the company as co-presidents, entering into long-term employment agreements with Cinedigm upon the closing of the deal, which is expected to take place in the second calendar quarter of 2019.
Also Read: Cinedigm Announces Pricing and Titles of New Chinese-Centric Ott Service (Exclusive)
Founded in 2006, Future Today owns and operates more than 650 content channels with more than 30 million app installs,...
Future Today brings with it a network of 5.2 million monthly active users, which, combined with Cinedigm’s 2.4 million, will create a combined user base of over 7.6 million monthly viewers. Future Today reported that it has positive cash flow, with revenues increasing by more than 100 percent in 2018 to around $23.9 million in full-year revenues.
Future Today co-founders CEO Alok Ranjan and Vikrant Mathur will continue to lead the company as co-presidents, entering into long-term employment agreements with Cinedigm upon the closing of the deal, which is expected to take place in the second calendar quarter of 2019.
Also Read: Cinedigm Announces Pricing and Titles of New Chinese-Centric Ott Service (Exclusive)
Founded in 2006, Future Today owns and operates more than 650 content channels with more than 30 million app installs,...
- 3/15/2019
- by Matt Lopez
- The Wrap
Digital media company Cinedigm Corp. is to acquire the Future Today ad-supported streaming platform (Avod) for $60 million in cash and stock.
The deal for the Mumbai- and Menlo Park, California-based streamer, unveiled Friday, dramatically expands Chris McGurk's digital company in the over-the-top digital space in India and China after earlier unveiling plans to launch an Ott channel in the U.S. market dedicated to Chinese film and TV content.
The acquisition, where Los Angeles-based Cinedigm will pay $45 million and $15 million in stock, will grow the company's Ott footprint to over 7.6 million monthly active users ...
The deal for the Mumbai- and Menlo Park, California-based streamer, unveiled Friday, dramatically expands Chris McGurk's digital company in the over-the-top digital space in India and China after earlier unveiling plans to launch an Ott channel in the U.S. market dedicated to Chinese film and TV content.
The acquisition, where Los Angeles-based Cinedigm will pay $45 million and $15 million in stock, will grow the company's Ott footprint to over 7.6 million monthly active users ...
- 3/15/2019
- The Hollywood Reporter - Film + TV
Cinedigm, which has been steadily transforming itself from a cinema equipment concern to a streaming specialist, is significantly expanding its digital reach by acquiring video platform company Future Today.
In exchange for $45 million in cash and $15 million in common stock, Cinedigm will increase its Ott footprint to more than 7.6 million monthly active users and 67 million total app installations.
Future Today, which operates one of the largest collections of ad-supported video-on-demand channels, generates positive net income and cash flow, according to the announcement of the deal. The company’s revenues increased by almost 150% in calendar year 2018 to an estimated $23.9 million in full-year revenues.
Established in 2006 by founder and CEO Alok Ranjan and Co-Founder Vikrant Mathur, Menlo Park, CA-based Future Today owns and operates more than 700 content channels with more than 60 million app installs. It manages more than 200,000 film, television and digital content assets that currently receive more than 85 million video views...
In exchange for $45 million in cash and $15 million in common stock, Cinedigm will increase its Ott footprint to more than 7.6 million monthly active users and 67 million total app installations.
Future Today, which operates one of the largest collections of ad-supported video-on-demand channels, generates positive net income and cash flow, according to the announcement of the deal. The company’s revenues increased by almost 150% in calendar year 2018 to an estimated $23.9 million in full-year revenues.
Established in 2006 by founder and CEO Alok Ranjan and Co-Founder Vikrant Mathur, Menlo Park, CA-based Future Today owns and operates more than 700 content channels with more than 60 million app installs. It manages more than 200,000 film, television and digital content assets that currently receive more than 85 million video views...
- 3/15/2019
- by Dade Hayes
- Deadline Film + TV
Continuing its long-term pivot away from cinema equipment and toward streaming, Cinedigm posted third-quarter results showing several encouraging signs, even if some red ink continues to flow.
Total revenue of $14.6 million fell 21% from the year-ago quarter, largely due to a 37% slide in the company’s legacy equipment business. The net loss in the period came to $2.7 million, a 44% improvement over losses in the same quarter of 2017.
Adjusted Ebitda came in at minus-$3.3 million in the quarter ending December 31, far narrower than the $5.9 million net loss in the 2017 period.
Direct operating expenses declined 18% in the quarter, to $5.2 million from $6.4 million, due to lower content advance amortization in the Content & Entertainment business unit.
Cinedigm, which was taken over by Hong Kong investment company Bison Capital in 2017, has announced a series of acquisitions and strategic moves in recent months. It runs a portfolio of streaming channels such as CONtv and the Dove Channel,...
Total revenue of $14.6 million fell 21% from the year-ago quarter, largely due to a 37% slide in the company’s legacy equipment business. The net loss in the period came to $2.7 million, a 44% improvement over losses in the same quarter of 2017.
Adjusted Ebitda came in at minus-$3.3 million in the quarter ending December 31, far narrower than the $5.9 million net loss in the 2017 period.
Direct operating expenses declined 18% in the quarter, to $5.2 million from $6.4 million, due to lower content advance amortization in the Content & Entertainment business unit.
Cinedigm, which was taken over by Hong Kong investment company Bison Capital in 2017, has announced a series of acquisitions and strategic moves in recent months. It runs a portfolio of streaming channels such as CONtv and the Dove Channel,...
- 2/13/2019
- by Dade Hayes
- Deadline Film + TV
Had enough of Harvey Weinstein? Not just yet.
There’s not a lot of new information in “Untouchable,” a creditable documentary about the scandal that upended Hollywood and unleashed a #MeToo movement across the world, which premiered at the Sundance Film Festival on Friday night.
But for those eager to hear more about this conundrum of a man – a tastemaker who made culture-defining movies for two decades but was allegedly also a monstrous, serial rapist who damaged the lives of dozens of women – this movie is for you.
Also Read: 'The Inventor' Chronicles the Cautionary Tale of Theranos and the Rise and Fall of Elizabeth Holmes
The Hollywood crowd in attendance was certainly riveted. It included everyone from former Ticketmaster CEO Fred Rosen to TV legend Norman Lear and his wife Lyn Lear to former MGM CEO Chris McGurk, among others who packed the Marc Theatre.
That’s no surprise,...
There’s not a lot of new information in “Untouchable,” a creditable documentary about the scandal that upended Hollywood and unleashed a #MeToo movement across the world, which premiered at the Sundance Film Festival on Friday night.
But for those eager to hear more about this conundrum of a man – a tastemaker who made culture-defining movies for two decades but was allegedly also a monstrous, serial rapist who damaged the lives of dozens of women – this movie is for you.
Also Read: 'The Inventor' Chronicles the Cautionary Tale of Theranos and the Rise and Fall of Elizabeth Holmes
The Hollywood crowd in attendance was certainly riveted. It included everyone from former Ticketmaster CEO Fred Rosen to TV legend Norman Lear and his wife Lyn Lear to former MGM CEO Chris McGurk, among others who packed the Marc Theatre.
That’s no surprise,...
- 1/26/2019
- by Sharon Waxman
- The Wrap
Cinedigm is teaming with the powerhouse China International TV Corp. to bring more than 500 hours of popular Chinese content to the U.S. for its forthcoming digital channel Bambu.
The Chinese content digital channel, which will feature programming mostly dubbed into English, will launch in early 2019. Cinedigm already operates nine Ott channels, including Docurama and CONtv, which covers Comic Con gatherings around the country. The Bambu service is expected to cost $4.99 a month, and will be available via major streaming devices and pay-tv carriage.
In September, Cinedigm CEO and Hollywood studio veteran Chris McGurk described Bambu as a “giant beta test” that will be continually tweaked based on consumption patterns. Cinedigm, which is owned by Hong Kong investment firm Bison Holdings, enjoys a rare degree of access to the lucrative Chinese market.
Among the Citvc titles are some of the highest-rated shows to air in China in recent years. Among...
The Chinese content digital channel, which will feature programming mostly dubbed into English, will launch in early 2019. Cinedigm already operates nine Ott channels, including Docurama and CONtv, which covers Comic Con gatherings around the country. The Bambu service is expected to cost $4.99 a month, and will be available via major streaming devices and pay-tv carriage.
In September, Cinedigm CEO and Hollywood studio veteran Chris McGurk described Bambu as a “giant beta test” that will be continually tweaked based on consumption patterns. Cinedigm, which is owned by Hong Kong investment firm Bison Holdings, enjoys a rare degree of access to the lucrative Chinese market.
Among the Citvc titles are some of the highest-rated shows to air in China in recent years. Among...
- 12/5/2018
- by Dade Hayes
- Deadline Film + TV
Cinedigm said it has reached an agreement to acquire ComicBlitz, a digital comic book service that provides subscribers access to about 10,000 titles from some 30 publishers.
The company said it plans to distribute this content globally via mobile devices, streaming services and other media companies. Cinedigm also plans to integrate ComicBlitz into its own over-the-top services, including its fandom lifestyle network CONtv.
Cinedigm expects that the acquisition will close before the end of the year. Terms of the deal were not disclosed.
ComicBlitz bills itself as the Netflix of comics, a service that provides all-you-can-eat access for a monthly subscription fee. Launched in 2015, the service is available in more than 133 countries, and offers a range of popular titles, such as Transformers, Star Trek, Judge Dredd, Bloodshot, Bob’s Burgers, Army Of Darkness, Vampirella, Green Hornet, Kiss, The Shadow, The Spirit, and 30 Days Of Night.
Cinedigm said the deal is expected...
The company said it plans to distribute this content globally via mobile devices, streaming services and other media companies. Cinedigm also plans to integrate ComicBlitz into its own over-the-top services, including its fandom lifestyle network CONtv.
Cinedigm expects that the acquisition will close before the end of the year. Terms of the deal were not disclosed.
ComicBlitz bills itself as the Netflix of comics, a service that provides all-you-can-eat access for a monthly subscription fee. Launched in 2015, the service is available in more than 133 countries, and offers a range of popular titles, such as Transformers, Star Trek, Judge Dredd, Bloodshot, Bob’s Burgers, Army Of Darkness, Vampirella, Green Hornet, Kiss, The Shadow, The Spirit, and 30 Days Of Night.
Cinedigm said the deal is expected...
- 11/28/2018
- by Dawn C. Chmielewski
- Deadline Film + TV
Cinedigm, the former specialist in cinema gear now pivoting to Ott technology, reported second-quarter results with narrower losses and a 23% jump from its streaming channels business.
In the fiscal 2019 period ending September 30, the company’s net loss of $3.6 million, or 9 cents per share, marked an improvement from the year-earlier loss of 60 cents a share.
The top line reflected the strategic change of direction by the Chinese-owned company. Total revenue of $13.7 million fell 19% from the same period in fiscal 2018 due to an expected downturn in cinema equipment and services transactions. Revenue from the company’s Ott channels business, whose portfolio of seven networks targets several distinct niches, jumped 23%.
In 2017, Cinedigm sold most of its equity to Hong Kong investment outfit Bison Holding Co. Bison’s control has opened up business opportunities for Cinedigm, CEO Chris McGurk said. The company recently formed an exclusive partnership with Chinese streaming channel Youku to distribute...
In the fiscal 2019 period ending September 30, the company’s net loss of $3.6 million, or 9 cents per share, marked an improvement from the year-earlier loss of 60 cents a share.
The top line reflected the strategic change of direction by the Chinese-owned company. Total revenue of $13.7 million fell 19% from the same period in fiscal 2018 due to an expected downturn in cinema equipment and services transactions. Revenue from the company’s Ott channels business, whose portfolio of seven networks targets several distinct niches, jumped 23%.
In 2017, Cinedigm sold most of its equity to Hong Kong investment outfit Bison Holding Co. Bison’s control has opened up business opportunities for Cinedigm, CEO Chris McGurk said. The company recently formed an exclusive partnership with Chinese streaming channel Youku to distribute...
- 11/14/2018
- by Dade Hayes
- Deadline Film + TV
Erick Opeka has been named president of digital networks, overseeing the strategy, development, launch, and operations of Cinedigm’s growing roster of premium digital-first channels.
Opeka served as the company’s Evp of digital networks since 2014, where he oversaw distribution of Cinedigm’s Ott networks, which include the factual network Docurama; gaming and eSports network Wham; the family friendly Dove Channel and Dove Kids; Asian pop culture network Hallypop; and the Chinese entertainment channel Bambu. He was integral in the development and launch of the company’s flagship networks, and struck partnerships with platforms including Sling TV, Xumo and Twitch.
Before assuming Evp duties, Opeka was Svp of global digital. Prior to joining Cinedigm, Opeka was Svp and head of New Video Digital, an aggregator of independent digital content for more than 850 content partners including A&E Networks, The Jim Henson Company, Berman Braun, and others.
“Under Erick’s leadership, Cinedigm...
Opeka served as the company’s Evp of digital networks since 2014, where he oversaw distribution of Cinedigm’s Ott networks, which include the factual network Docurama; gaming and eSports network Wham; the family friendly Dove Channel and Dove Kids; Asian pop culture network Hallypop; and the Chinese entertainment channel Bambu. He was integral in the development and launch of the company’s flagship networks, and struck partnerships with platforms including Sling TV, Xumo and Twitch.
Before assuming Evp duties, Opeka was Svp of global digital. Prior to joining Cinedigm, Opeka was Svp and head of New Video Digital, an aggregator of independent digital content for more than 850 content partners including A&E Networks, The Jim Henson Company, Berman Braun, and others.
“Under Erick’s leadership, Cinedigm...
- 10/17/2018
- by Dawn C. Chmielewski
- Deadline Film + TV
Cinedigm CEO Chris McGurk offered fresh details today about a planned Chinese streaming service aimed at younger Western audience, and poised to launch early next year.
The new Ott service, to be called Bambu, will feature contemporary Chinese films, television shows and music curated for American millennial viewers. Cinedigm already has reached deals with state-run broadcaster Central China Television and with Shanghai Media Group to bring hundreds of hours of first-run shows to the service.
“We’re going to approach the channel … as a huge beta test; to try out different kinds of content and see how the audience responds.” McGurk said at a meeting of the Digital Entertainment Group. “We’ll constantly go through, refreshing the channel, based on the data about what works and what doesn’t work.”
McGurk discussed creative collaborations in China with former Fox Studios Chairman Bill Mechanic.
The Cinedigm executive said he opportunity in...
The new Ott service, to be called Bambu, will feature contemporary Chinese films, television shows and music curated for American millennial viewers. Cinedigm already has reached deals with state-run broadcaster Central China Television and with Shanghai Media Group to bring hundreds of hours of first-run shows to the service.
“We’re going to approach the channel … as a huge beta test; to try out different kinds of content and see how the audience responds.” McGurk said at a meeting of the Digital Entertainment Group. “We’ll constantly go through, refreshing the channel, based on the data about what works and what doesn’t work.”
McGurk discussed creative collaborations in China with former Fox Studios Chairman Bill Mechanic.
The Cinedigm executive said he opportunity in...
- 9/26/2018
- by Dawn C. Chmielewski
- Deadline Film + TV
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