Annapurna Pictures, Megan Ellison\u2019s growing independent production company, has long made critically acclaimed movies for other studios to release in theaters. Now, in a big move for the indie shingle, Annapurna will distribute movies on its own.
The Los Angeles company, known for Oscar best-picture nominees such as \u201cHer\u201d and \u201cAmerican Hustle,\u201d is launching a full-fledged distribution and marketing arm, Annapurna said Friday. Its first release will be an as-yet untitled film about the 1967 Detroit riots directed by Kathryn Bigelow, who previously made \u201cZero Dark Thirty\u201d for Annapurna.
Distribution and marketing is the latest expansion for Ellison\u2019s company, which formed a video game production unit late last year. In the past, Annapurna\u2019s movies have been released by major distributors including Sony Pictures , Warner Bros. Pictures and Paramount Pictures.
The company did not say how many films it plans to release independently.
Marc Weinstock, who left 20th Century Fox last year to join Annapurna as president, will oversee the new division with marketing president and former Sony executive David Kaminow and distribution chief Erik Lomis, who previously worked at Weinstein Co.
Ellison founded Annapurna in 2011 and has since become an awards season regular. Recent commercial hits include Sony\u2019s R-rated cartoon \u201cSausage Party,\u201d and its film \u201c20th Century Women\u201d is a critical darling. But it has also produced box office disappointments, like Paramount\u2019s \u201cEverybody Wants Some!!\u201d
The untitled Bigelow movie is slated for theatrical release Aug. 4.
„Kathryn took a chance on me six years ago and I’m honored that she has put her faith in me and my team once again,\u201d Ellison said in a statement.
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„Manchester By the Sea“ director Kenneth Lonergan discusses writing a quiet character and working with actor Casey Affleck to bring him to life.<\/p>\n

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