Studiocanal Acquires Global Rights to ‘12 Years a Slave,’ ‘The Tree of Life’ and More River Road Entertainment Titles (EXCLUSIVE)

As an avid cinephile who’s spent countless hours immersed in the rich tapestry of cinematic history, I can hardly contain my excitement about this recent partnership between Studiocanal and River Road Entertainment! The collection of films they’re bringing together is nothing short of a cinematic treasure trove.


As a passionate cinephile, I’m thrilled to share that StudiosCanal and River Road Entertainment have secured an exclusive worldwide distribution agreement for 11 renowned films. Among these masterpieces are Steve McQueen’s Academy Award-winning “12 Years a Slave,” Terrence Malick’s Palme d’Or winner, “The Tree of Life,” and Sean Penn’s critically acclaimed “Into the Wild.” These cinematic gems will now be accessible to movie enthusiasts like myself all around the globe. I can hardly wait to revisit these classics or discover them for the first time!

This collaboration unites Europe’s foremost production and distribution company, Studiocanal, with the prominent American independent movie producer, River Road Entertainment, across multiple territories. The agreement encompasses television, streaming services, cinema releases, and various other media outlets.

According to the deal, StudioCanal is responsible for releasing nine full-length movies and two documentaries, an impressive lineup of high-profile films that together have grossed more than $440 million worldwide in ticket sales.

Juliette Hochart, Executive Vice President of Library at Studiocanal, expressed her satisfaction with the deal: “We’re thrilled to unveil this agreement, which underscores River Road’s confidence in Studiocanal as a partner and distributor. River Road has given us the responsibility to distribute the masterpieces of such immensely skilled, motivating, and acclaimed filmmakers. We take great pride in expanding the reach of these works across various regions globally, inviting both new and established audiences to explore or revisit essential cinema.

The initial documentary enclosed in the agreement is Robert Kenner’s Academy Award-nominated “Food, Inc.”, a groundbreaking movie that ignited a worldwide discussion on food manufacturing. By revealing the concealed procedures behind factory farming, genetically altered crops, and the influential lobbying of the food industry, it exposed these practices.

In the second document of the agreement, you’ll find “Chicago 10” by Brett Morgen – a movie that blends animation with old footage to narrate the trial of activists accused of inciting riots at the 1968 Democratic National Convention. This film vividly portrays the protests, courtroom drama, and cultural turbulence of the time, using a unique approach to depict the historic event in a lively manner.

Christa Workman, who serves as co-president and COO at River Road Entertainment, expressed her delight about commencing this thrilling cooperation with Studiocanal. She believes that this new venture signifies the start of a robust and long-lasting alliance.

This action solidifies Studiocanal as a prominent distributor, boasting a library of more than 9,000 movies from 60 different countries. Acquiring River Road’s prestigious films adds even more depth to their collection, making their offerings more appealing and expanding their influence on a global scale.

Among the other films on display are:

Music biographical films are a common theme, as well, with “The Runaways,” helmed by Floria Sigismondi, and “Love & Mercy,” a movie focusing on the Beach Boys, directed by Bill Pohlad, who is the founder of River Road, being notable additions to this category.

The announcement of the deal took place at the International Classic Film Market (MIFC), held in Lyon, which coincides with Thierry Frémaux’s Lumière Film Festival, chief of Cannes. During the market’s closing ceremony, Studiocanal CEO Anna Marsh was the guest of honor.

The MIFC wraps in Lyon on October 18.

Read More

2024-10-18 18:16