Feature first on roster of TV adaptations from Yi Animation.
Los Angeles-based Spotlight Pictures has acquired sales rights to the $12m feature animated Kung Food from Yi Animation in the days leading up to Afm.
The full-length 3D feature takes place against the backdrop of ongoing conflict between foods as a steamed bun must embark on a hero’s journey and save the world of foods.
“It’s no secret that China is expected to become the largest movie market in the world by 2020, surpassing the North America box office with 200 billion yuan,” said Spotlight CEO Matt McCombs.
“As we are based in Los Angeles,...
Los Angeles-based Spotlight Pictures has acquired sales rights to the $12m feature animated Kung Food from Yi Animation in the days leading up to Afm.
The full-length 3D feature takes place against the backdrop of ongoing conflict between foods as a steamed bun must embark on a hero’s journey and save the world of foods.
“It’s no secret that China is expected to become the largest movie market in the world by 2020, surpassing the North America box office with 200 billion yuan,” said Spotlight CEO Matt McCombs.
“As we are based in Los Angeles,...
- 10/23/2018
- by Jeremy Kay
- ScreenDaily
Lionsgate and Grindstone Entertainment Group have picked up North American rights to the dramatic thriller American Exit, written and directed by Ingo Vollkammer and Tim McCann. Based true account, the fictionalized narrative from Cosmopolis Entertainment centers on a dying California man’s attempt to make amends for his chief regrets in life, which brings him to reconnect with his estranged son on what unexpectedly comes to be a dangerous, yet bonding journey.
The film stars Dane Cook (Good Luck Chuck), Levi Miller (A Wrinkle in Time), John Savage and Udo Kier (Downsizing).
Vollkammer and McCann also produced the film with Jennifer Konawal, Ross Kohn and Nancy Leopardi. Cosmopolis fully financed the film.
The project came about after producers Ross Kohn and Nancy Leopardi were initially captivated by the emotional father-son story. “I’m very proud that our movie will be released by Grindstone through Lionsgate for many to see it,...
The film stars Dane Cook (Good Luck Chuck), Levi Miller (A Wrinkle in Time), John Savage and Udo Kier (Downsizing).
Vollkammer and McCann also produced the film with Jennifer Konawal, Ross Kohn and Nancy Leopardi. Cosmopolis fully financed the film.
The project came about after producers Ross Kohn and Nancy Leopardi were initially captivated by the emotional father-son story. “I’m very proud that our movie will be released by Grindstone through Lionsgate for many to see it,...
- 5/25/2018
- by Anita Busch
- Deadline Film + TV
La-based Cosmopolis financed father-son drama.
Grindstone Entertainment Group has acquired North American rights from Spotlight Pictures to American Exit starring Dane Cook in a deal negotiated in Cannes.
The film, written and directed by Ingo Vollkammer and Tim McCann, will be distributed through Lionsgate Home Entertainment.
American Exit is based on the true story of a dying California man’s attempt to reconnect and bond with his estranged son. The feature also stars Levi Miller, John Savage, and Udo Kier.
Vollkammer and McCann serve as producers on the film, along with Jennifer Konawal, Ross Kohn, and Nancy Leopardi. La-based Cosmopolis Entertainment fully financed the project.
Grindstone Entertainment Group has acquired North American rights from Spotlight Pictures to American Exit starring Dane Cook in a deal negotiated in Cannes.
The film, written and directed by Ingo Vollkammer and Tim McCann, will be distributed through Lionsgate Home Entertainment.
American Exit is based on the true story of a dying California man’s attempt to reconnect and bond with his estranged son. The feature also stars Levi Miller, John Savage, and Udo Kier.
Vollkammer and McCann serve as producers on the film, along with Jennifer Konawal, Ross Kohn, and Nancy Leopardi. La-based Cosmopolis Entertainment fully financed the project.
- 5/22/2018
- by Jenn Sherman
- ScreenDaily
Vancouver’s Mad Samurai Productions produces with financing from Telefilm Canada.
Los Angeles-based Spotlight Pictures has acquired international sales rights to the thriller Juggernaut starring Jack Kesy, who stars in 12 Strong and the upcoming Deadpool 2 and Eli Roth’s Death Wish remake.
Amanda Crew, David Cubitt, Stephen McHattie and Peter McRobbie round out the key cast on the feature from writer-director Daniel Dimarco.
Kesy plays a violent young man who returns to his homestead convinced that there are suspicious elements behind his mother’s allege suicide and sets out for revenge.
Matthew Cervi produced through his Vancouver-based company Mad Samurai Productions and Ines Eisses served as co-producer. Ben Silverman, Dave Valleau, Rich Mento and Jason Upton served as executive producers.
The film was developed through the Harold Greenberg Fund, Telefilm Canada, and Creative BC, with production financing support from Telefilm Canada and the Harold Greenberg Fund.
“Daniel Dimarco has devised an ingeniously executed thriller,” Spotlight Pictures CEO [link...
Los Angeles-based Spotlight Pictures has acquired international sales rights to the thriller Juggernaut starring Jack Kesy, who stars in 12 Strong and the upcoming Deadpool 2 and Eli Roth’s Death Wish remake.
Amanda Crew, David Cubitt, Stephen McHattie and Peter McRobbie round out the key cast on the feature from writer-director Daniel Dimarco.
Kesy plays a violent young man who returns to his homestead convinced that there are suspicious elements behind his mother’s allege suicide and sets out for revenge.
Matthew Cervi produced through his Vancouver-based company Mad Samurai Productions and Ines Eisses served as co-producer. Ben Silverman, Dave Valleau, Rich Mento and Jason Upton served as executive producers.
The film was developed through the Harold Greenberg Fund, Telefilm Canada, and Creative BC, with production financing support from Telefilm Canada and the Harold Greenberg Fund.
“Daniel Dimarco has devised an ingeniously executed thriller,” Spotlight Pictures CEO [link...
- 2/19/2018
- by Jeremy Kay
- ScreenDaily
Exclusive: Film shot on location at Bestival in UK.
Us sales agent Spotlight Pictures has acquired international sales rights, excluding the UK, to coming of age tale Access All Areas.
The film is directed by Bryn Higgins from a script by Oliver Veysey, who produced alongside Bill Curbishley.
Starring former Screen Star of Tomorrow Ella Purnell (Miss Peregrine’s Home For Peculiar Children), Georgie Henley (The Chronicles Of Narnia), Edward Bluemel (The Halcyon) and Jordan Stephens (Alleycats), the story follows a gang of teens who run from their dysfunctional parents to an island festival to lose themselves in the crowd.
The film shot on location at UK musical festival Bestival in 2015. The soundtrack includes Faithless, Tame Impala and Future Islands, as well as capturing live performances from The Who and Underworld.
It is now in the final stages of post-production and Spotlight is debuting the title to buyers at this week’s European Film Market in Berlin...
Us sales agent Spotlight Pictures has acquired international sales rights, excluding the UK, to coming of age tale Access All Areas.
The film is directed by Bryn Higgins from a script by Oliver Veysey, who produced alongside Bill Curbishley.
Starring former Screen Star of Tomorrow Ella Purnell (Miss Peregrine’s Home For Peculiar Children), Georgie Henley (The Chronicles Of Narnia), Edward Bluemel (The Halcyon) and Jordan Stephens (Alleycats), the story follows a gang of teens who run from their dysfunctional parents to an island festival to lose themselves in the crowd.
The film shot on location at UK musical festival Bestival in 2015. The soundtrack includes Faithless, Tame Impala and Future Islands, as well as capturing live performances from The Who and Underworld.
It is now in the final stages of post-production and Spotlight is debuting the title to buyers at this week’s European Film Market in Berlin...
- 2/11/2017
- by tom.grater@screendaily.com (Tom Grater)
- ScreenDaily
Exclusive: Film shot on location at Bestival in UK.
Us sales agent Spotlight Pictures has acquired international sales rights, excluding the UK, to coming of age tale Access All Areas.
The film is directed by Bryn Higgins from a script by Oliver Veysey, who produced alongside Bill Curbishley.
Starring former Screen Star of Tomorrow Ella Purnell (Miss Peregrine’s Home For Peculiar Children), Georgie Henley (The Chronicles Of Narnia), Edward Bluemel (The Halcyon) and Jordan Stephens (Alleycats), the story follows a gang of teens who run from their dysfunctional parents to an island festival to lose themselves in the crowd.
The film shot on location at UK musical festival Bestival in 2015. The soundtrack includes Faithless, Tame Impala and Future Islands, as well as capturing live performances from The Who and Underworld.
It is now in the final stages of post-production and Spotlight is debuting the title to buyers at this week’s European Film Market in Berlin...
Us sales agent Spotlight Pictures has acquired international sales rights, excluding the UK, to coming of age tale Access All Areas.
The film is directed by Bryn Higgins from a script by Oliver Veysey, who produced alongside Bill Curbishley.
Starring former Screen Star of Tomorrow Ella Purnell (Miss Peregrine’s Home For Peculiar Children), Georgie Henley (The Chronicles Of Narnia), Edward Bluemel (The Halcyon) and Jordan Stephens (Alleycats), the story follows a gang of teens who run from their dysfunctional parents to an island festival to lose themselves in the crowd.
The film shot on location at UK musical festival Bestival in 2015. The soundtrack includes Faithless, Tame Impala and Future Islands, as well as capturing live performances from The Who and Underworld.
It is now in the final stages of post-production and Spotlight is debuting the title to buyers at this week’s European Film Market in Berlin...
- 2/11/2017
- by tom.grater@screendaily.com (Tom Grater)
- ScreenDaily
Exclusive: Founder and CEO Matt McCombs and his sales team head to Santa Monica with a sales roster featuring Gabriel Byrne and Harvey Keitel, among others.
The pair star in Lies We Tell, (pictured) about the driver of a recently deceased businessman who lands in hot water when he attempts to save the family legacy and cover up his employer’s affairs.
Mitu Misra makes his directorial debut and the film by Bradford International Film Associates is in post-production.
Camellia Entertainment’s sci-fi thriller After Darkness features an ensemble cast led by Kyra Sedgwick, Tim Daly, and Natalia Dyer from Netflix hit Stranger Things.
The film centres on an affluent family living at a time when the Sun’s death threatens to destroy mankind. Spotlight will screen the film at the market.
Horror Fear, Inc. from Lone Suspect premiered in the Midnight Section of the Tribeca Film Festival and stars Lucas Neff, Caitlin Stasey, [link...
The pair star in Lies We Tell, (pictured) about the driver of a recently deceased businessman who lands in hot water when he attempts to save the family legacy and cover up his employer’s affairs.
Mitu Misra makes his directorial debut and the film by Bradford International Film Associates is in post-production.
Camellia Entertainment’s sci-fi thriller After Darkness features an ensemble cast led by Kyra Sedgwick, Tim Daly, and Natalia Dyer from Netflix hit Stranger Things.
The film centres on an affluent family living at a time when the Sun’s death threatens to destroy mankind. Spotlight will screen the film at the market.
Horror Fear, Inc. from Lone Suspect premiered in the Midnight Section of the Tribeca Film Festival and stars Lucas Neff, Caitlin Stasey, [link...
- 10/24/2016
- by jeremykay67@gmail.com (Jeremy Kay)
- ScreenDaily
Exclusive: Founder and CEO Matt McCombs and his sales team at Spotlight Pictures head into Cannes with a roster led by Aaron Eckhart starrer Courage.
The film gets its market premiere screening today [May 11] and is based on Jim Dent’s novel Courage Beyond The Game: The Freddie Steinmark Story.
Angelo Pizzo, a sports specialist whose screenwriting credits include Hoosiers and Rudy, directed from his adapted screenplay.
Eckhart stars as the coach of the University Of Texas American Football team whose star player is diagnosed with bone cancer.
The film opened in the Us last November through Clarius Entertainment under the title My All American and Universal handles ancillary rights.
Spotlight is also talking up Bitter Harvest, an epic romance set against the backdrop of the Holodomor – Stalin’s persecution of Ukrainians during the 1930s – that stars Max Irons and Samantha Barks.
The film screens today [May 11] and on Tuesday [16] in Cannes and the producers are in talks for a Us...
The film gets its market premiere screening today [May 11] and is based on Jim Dent’s novel Courage Beyond The Game: The Freddie Steinmark Story.
Angelo Pizzo, a sports specialist whose screenwriting credits include Hoosiers and Rudy, directed from his adapted screenplay.
Eckhart stars as the coach of the University Of Texas American Football team whose star player is diagnosed with bone cancer.
The film opened in the Us last November through Clarius Entertainment under the title My All American and Universal handles ancillary rights.
Spotlight is also talking up Bitter Harvest, an epic romance set against the backdrop of the Holodomor – Stalin’s persecution of Ukrainians during the 1930s – that stars Max Irons and Samantha Barks.
The film screens today [May 11] and on Tuesday [16] in Cannes and the producers are in talks for a Us...
- 5/11/2016
- by jeremykay67@gmail.com (Jeremy Kay)
- ScreenDaily
In just two weeks, Alamo Drafthouses nationwide will host screenings of A24's The Witch. More details on that story after the jump. Also in this round-up: a trailer for Night Terrors, Angelica release details, a new clip from The Final Project, and four images from The Terrible Two.
The Witch: Press Release: "Austin, TX - Feb 3, 2016 - The Alamo Drafthouse is excited to announce A24's chilling new horror film The Witch as the latest Drafthouse Recommends title. The film will open at Alamo Drafthouse locations nationwide with "sneak preview" screenings on the night of Feb. 18th, 2016. In the lead up to that opening date, select Alamo locations will also host free retrospective screenings of witchcraft horror classics to get audiences in the, er, spirit and to set the stage for director Robert Eggers' debut feature and groundbreaking new take on the genre.
And, for a limited time this month,...
The Witch: Press Release: "Austin, TX - Feb 3, 2016 - The Alamo Drafthouse is excited to announce A24's chilling new horror film The Witch as the latest Drafthouse Recommends title. The film will open at Alamo Drafthouse locations nationwide with "sneak preview" screenings on the night of Feb. 18th, 2016. In the lead up to that opening date, select Alamo locations will also host free retrospective screenings of witchcraft horror classics to get audiences in the, er, spirit and to set the stage for director Robert Eggers' debut feature and groundbreaking new take on the genre.
And, for a limited time this month,...
- 2/4/2016
- by Tamika Jones
- DailyDead
Exclusive: Spotlight Pictures has unveiled five new titles on its slate led by James Franco starrer Yosemite.
The coming-of-age drama also stars Henry Hooper and follows two young boys as they journey to the Californian national park with their father.
Franco’s Rabbit Bandini Productions produced what is the fourth collaboration with Spotlight.
Chinese family animation Polar Adventure from Ori Animation centres on a penguin who returns to his home in the South Pole in search of his missing grandfather.
The film is scheduled to open this summer in China and Spotlight is working on the English-language dub.
Rom-com Ely And Naomi’s No Kiss List stars Victoria Justice in the tale of a college freshman in love with her lifelong gay friend.
UK comedy Chicklit with John Hurt, Christian McKay, Dakota Blue Richards is about small town men who attempt to raise money to save their failing local pub by writing a woman’s erotic novel in...
The coming-of-age drama also stars Henry Hooper and follows two young boys as they journey to the Californian national park with their father.
Franco’s Rabbit Bandini Productions produced what is the fourth collaboration with Spotlight.
Chinese family animation Polar Adventure from Ori Animation centres on a penguin who returns to his home in the South Pole in search of his missing grandfather.
The film is scheduled to open this summer in China and Spotlight is working on the English-language dub.
Rom-com Ely And Naomi’s No Kiss List stars Victoria Justice in the tale of a college freshman in love with her lifelong gay friend.
UK comedy Chicklit with John Hurt, Christian McKay, Dakota Blue Richards is about small town men who attempt to raise money to save their failing local pub by writing a woman’s erotic novel in...
- 5/17/2015
- by jeremykay67@gmail.com (Jeremy Kay)
- ScreenDaily
Exclusive: Matt McCombs’ Spotlight Pictures has acquired world rights to Sydon’s Falsely Accused.
Maria Pulera directed and co-wrote with Rayya Deeb about a young woman who sets out to catch the killer of her brother after she is accused of the crime.
Emma Holzer, Rosanna Arquette, Parker Mack and Jon Gries star and Mark Myers produced.
The film is in post and Spotlight aims to introduce sales in Cannes.
“The whole team at Spotlight is thriller to be working with Sydon to bring this amazing film to the attention to buyers worldwide,” said McCombs.
“We are excited to be working with Spotlight,” said Pulera. “Their passion and excitement towards this project, combined with their understanding of the worldwide market, gives us the confidence that a producer needs.”
Carlos Rincon of Spotlight Pictures brokered the deal with Pulera for Sydon.
Maria Pulera directed and co-wrote with Rayya Deeb about a young woman who sets out to catch the killer of her brother after she is accused of the crime.
Emma Holzer, Rosanna Arquette, Parker Mack and Jon Gries star and Mark Myers produced.
The film is in post and Spotlight aims to introduce sales in Cannes.
“The whole team at Spotlight is thriller to be working with Sydon to bring this amazing film to the attention to buyers worldwide,” said McCombs.
“We are excited to be working with Spotlight,” said Pulera. “Their passion and excitement towards this project, combined with their understanding of the worldwide market, gives us the confidence that a producer needs.”
Carlos Rincon of Spotlight Pictures brokered the deal with Pulera for Sydon.
- 2/11/2015
- by jeremykay67@gmail.com (Jeremy Kay)
- ScreenDaily
Exclusive: Spotlight Pictures acquires world rights to Larry Clark’s coming-of-age tale [pictured].
Spotlight Pictures has secured world rights to Larry Clark’s Marfa Girl and has been in talks with buyers here.
Drake Burnette and Adam Mediano star in the coming-of-age tale of a teenager in small-town Texas.
Carlos Rincon of Spotlight negotiated the deal with producer Adam Sherman. Marfa Girl won the 2012 Golden Marc’Aurelio Award at the 2012 Roma Film Festival.
“I could not be more proud to represent Marfa Girl at Cannes,” said Spotlight CEO Matt McCombs.
“Personally, working with Larry means a lot to me. When I was younger Kids was a huge influence on me and my first job in international sales was working on the sales of Larry’s Another Day In Paradise.”
“In my opinion, the true no-holds barred artists in the film industry are so few that you can count them on your fingers,” said Sherman...
Spotlight Pictures has secured world rights to Larry Clark’s Marfa Girl and has been in talks with buyers here.
Drake Burnette and Adam Mediano star in the coming-of-age tale of a teenager in small-town Texas.
Carlos Rincon of Spotlight negotiated the deal with producer Adam Sherman. Marfa Girl won the 2012 Golden Marc’Aurelio Award at the 2012 Roma Film Festival.
“I could not be more proud to represent Marfa Girl at Cannes,” said Spotlight CEO Matt McCombs.
“Personally, working with Larry means a lot to me. When I was younger Kids was a huge influence on me and my first job in international sales was working on the sales of Larry’s Another Day In Paradise.”
“In my opinion, the true no-holds barred artists in the film industry are so few that you can count them on your fingers,” said Sherman...
- 5/19/2014
- by jeremykay67@gmail.com (Jeremy Kay)
- ScreenDaily
Exclusive: Spotlight Pictures to handle sales on rom-com, starring Jon Cryer [pictured].
Spotlight Pictures has come on board to handle sales at the Efm on the rom-com Hit By Lightning starring Jon Cryer.
The story centres on a bachelor who meets the perfect woman, except that she wants him to kill her husband. Stephanie Szostak and Will Sasso star.
Ricky Blitt wrote and directed the feature, which Chantal Chamandy produced through her Chantal Chamandy Entertainment label.
Mike Ades served as executive producer.
“This is a hilarious film that hits all the right beats. We are more than excited to be introducing it to buyers in Berlin,” said Spotlight CEO Matt McCombs.
Spotlight Pictures has come on board to handle sales at the Efm on the rom-com Hit By Lightning starring Jon Cryer.
The story centres on a bachelor who meets the perfect woman, except that she wants him to kill her husband. Stephanie Szostak and Will Sasso star.
Ricky Blitt wrote and directed the feature, which Chantal Chamandy produced through her Chantal Chamandy Entertainment label.
Mike Ades served as executive producer.
“This is a hilarious film that hits all the right beats. We are more than excited to be introducing it to buyers in Berlin,” said Spotlight CEO Matt McCombs.
- 2/12/2014
- by jeremykay67@gmail.com (Jeremy Kay)
- ScreenDaily
The Efm crime thriller stars Milo Ventimiglia, Katee Sackhoff and Jason Lee. Separately, Spotlight Pictures has announced its Berlin sales slate.
J M R Luna directed Arclight’s Tell, about a small-time crook who lands in trouble when he pulls of a major bank robbery.
Kevin Mann, Matt Perniciaro and Christopher Boyd of Haven Entertainment produced with Ventimiglia (pictured) and Russ Cundiff of Divide Pictures (Static). Mauricio Betancur, Rick Matros and George Voskericyan are the executive producers.
The film is currently in post and is scheduled for a summer release. Arclight will present previously unseen footage.
Spotlight Pictures CEO Matt McCombs has unveiled five projects for the market. The musically inspired There is Always Woodstock stars Allison Miller, James Wolk, Rumer Willis, Ryan Guzman, Katey Sagal, Anna Anissimova and Brittany Snow.
Rom-com Hit By Lightning features Jon Cryer, while family tale Christmas in Balsam Falls stars Robert Loggia, Charleene Closshey, Booboo Stewart and [link...
J M R Luna directed Arclight’s Tell, about a small-time crook who lands in trouble when he pulls of a major bank robbery.
Kevin Mann, Matt Perniciaro and Christopher Boyd of Haven Entertainment produced with Ventimiglia (pictured) and Russ Cundiff of Divide Pictures (Static). Mauricio Betancur, Rick Matros and George Voskericyan are the executive producers.
The film is currently in post and is scheduled for a summer release. Arclight will present previously unseen footage.
Spotlight Pictures CEO Matt McCombs has unveiled five projects for the market. The musically inspired There is Always Woodstock stars Allison Miller, James Wolk, Rumer Willis, Ryan Guzman, Katey Sagal, Anna Anissimova and Brittany Snow.
Rom-com Hit By Lightning features Jon Cryer, while family tale Christmas in Balsam Falls stars Robert Loggia, Charleene Closshey, Booboo Stewart and [link...
- 2/4/2014
- by jeremykay67@gmail.com (Jeremy Kay)
- ScreenDaily
Heading into Afm Spotlight Pictures has acquired international rights to the crime thriller Child Of God in its third collaboration with RabbitBandini.
James Franco directed the film starring Scott Haze, Tim Blake Nelson and Franco.
The film premiered in Venice and received its North American premiere immediately afterwards in Toronto. Child Of God is based on the book by Cormac McCarthy.
Spotlight Pictures’ CEO Matt McCombs said: “We are thrilled to continue our relationship with James and Vince. They are among the most fearless and creative producers out there. We welcome the opportunity to represent all three of their films to international buyers at Afm.”
RabbitBandini’s Vince Jolivette added: “Our relationship with Spotlight so far has been extraordinary and we were excited to continue it with Child Of God.”
Jolivette of RabbitBandini negotiated the deal with Carlos Rincon of Spotlight Pictures. Spotlight and RabbitBandini previously worked together on Tar and Sal.
James Franco directed the film starring Scott Haze, Tim Blake Nelson and Franco.
The film premiered in Venice and received its North American premiere immediately afterwards in Toronto. Child Of God is based on the book by Cormac McCarthy.
Spotlight Pictures’ CEO Matt McCombs said: “We are thrilled to continue our relationship with James and Vince. They are among the most fearless and creative producers out there. We welcome the opportunity to represent all three of their films to international buyers at Afm.”
RabbitBandini’s Vince Jolivette added: “Our relationship with Spotlight so far has been extraordinary and we were excited to continue it with Child Of God.”
Jolivette of RabbitBandini negotiated the deal with Carlos Rincon of Spotlight Pictures. Spotlight and RabbitBandini previously worked together on Tar and Sal.
- 10/24/2013
- by jeremykay67@gmail.com (Jeremy Kay)
- ScreenDaily
Spotlight Pictures will introduce Afm buyers to the rom-com Authors Anonymous starring Kaley Cuoco from The Big Bang Theory alongside Chris Klein, Teri Polo and the late Dennis Farina in one of his final roles.
Authors Anonymous centres on a group of struggling La screenwriters who accept a new member only to see her shoot to fame while they continue to toil away in obscurity.
“Author’s Anonymous is a hysterical look into the nature of fame,” said Spotlight CEO Matt McCombs. “Ellie Kanner has done a remarkable job in directing a film with such life and biting satire. Of course the cast is first-rate, led by Kaley, who is arguably the biggest star on television right now. We are honoured to offer this film to buyers at Afm”.
McCombs brokered the deal with producer Hal Schwartz.
Authors Anonymous centres on a group of struggling La screenwriters who accept a new member only to see her shoot to fame while they continue to toil away in obscurity.
“Author’s Anonymous is a hysterical look into the nature of fame,” said Spotlight CEO Matt McCombs. “Ellie Kanner has done a remarkable job in directing a film with such life and biting satire. Of course the cast is first-rate, led by Kaley, who is arguably the biggest star on television right now. We are honoured to offer this film to buyers at Afm”.
McCombs brokered the deal with producer Hal Schwartz.
- 10/11/2013
- by jeremykay67@gmail.com (Jeremy Kay)
- ScreenDaily
For new filmmakers and veterans alike, navigating the waters of the international film sales scene can be a daunting task. Halfway through the hectic Cannes Film Market I had a chance to sit down with Scott Bedno of hard-working indie sales outfit Spotlight Pictures. He took a few minutes to help shine a spotlight on the film industry from the international sales agent's perspective.
So tell me a bit about Spotlight; who are you and how long have you been in business?
Spotlight Pictures is a full-service film sales company licensing all media rights of feature films worldwide. Spotlight started in 2005, but the core members of the Spotlight team have decades of experience in the international arena.
What is your position in the company and what is your background?
I am the President of International at Spotlight Pictures. I started at Spotlight in September 2011, but I have known the company CEO, Matthew McCombs, since I first started in the business, as an assistant to legendary buyer’s rep, Gordon Steel. I don’t want to mention how long ago that was! After working with Gordon, I then worked as an acquisitions executive for the Australian distributor, Becker Entertainment, working under Mark Gooder, where we acquired titles such as “The Blair Witch Project” and “Buena Vista Social Club.” I dabbled in the “new media” space for a while, then settled into sales about a decade ago.
You seem to be doing better than just surviving, but actually growing in the past couple markets, what's your secret?
We find that as we’ve grown as a company, producers have gravitated towards us. They appreciate our straight-talk; some sales companies are prone to give out overblown sales estimates just to secure a film, we analyze the market for them realistically. We also try and lay out a road map of the sales strategy and discuss marketing ideas with our producers, as it truly is a partnership. We know how much time and energy our producers put into making the film, so we want to match that time and energy in selling the film. We don’t represent a large number of titles so we can devote enough time and resources to the films we do represent.
Lionsgate acquires Summit, eOne gobbling Alliance, seems like the pond is shrinking; as an "indies' indie" what's your take on the current climate for independent financing and distribution?
Certainly independent financing has taken a hit since the banking crisis. However, there always seems to be a steady stream of investors who want to be involved in the film business, so I feel the death of independent cinema is exaggerated to some degree. Mergers and acquisitions seem to be cyclical as well. At one point, there were no mini-major studios or studio/indie hybrids, then there were a bunch of them, now there aren’t as many. Two years from now, who knows? All I know is, quality product will find a market.
What are some of the titles you currently have, and how was Cannes for you?
We had a great Cannes, I’m pleased to report. We closed deals in Germany, Japan, Latin America, Turkey, Middle East, UK, just to name a few. I will also be closing deals after the market. Our recent titles include “Atlas Shrugged: Part I” which had a theatrical release in the States on over 450 prints, “Millennium Bug,” a creature feature using only practical effects (no CGI!) which buyers loved, the family/dog, “I Heart Shakey 3D,” and the zombie comedy, “Detention of the Dead.” As you can see, it’s a diverse slate, but we know different buyers are looking for different types of product, so we want to make sure we have something for everyone. What they have in common is the passion of the filmmakers behind them.
What's your advice to indie producers?
My advice to producers is to make the film you want to make, but it couldn’t hurt to talk to a sales agent before you start down the path. Our current producers bounce ideas off us for their next projects all the time, and we’ll give them our advice from what our buyers are saying to us. We have no ego, so you can say, “I’m making this movie about a dandelion growing in the desert, as it’s a symbol of a young woman’s coming-of-age in post-World War II Mongolia, and you can’t talk me out of it!” And we’ll say, “If that’s your passion, and you have to make the film, then go for it…but can you at least have some name cast?”
What one piece of information would producers be surprised to know?
All producers are concerned about piracy, as are we. However, most producers have been given the advice that you don’t want to have your film released in foreign territories ahead of the Us release, due to piracy. In fact, the opposite is true. There is more piracy flowing out from the States than flowing into the States. Which makes sense, as pirates take advantage of the promotion and awareness from the Us release. You’ve seen the studios catching on to this, as “Battleship” was released very successfully in foreign territories well in advance of the Us release.
Are you open to being contacted even if a film hasn't won a prize at Sundance?
Certainly! We’re always looking for quality product, and that doesn’t mean you need festival accolades to be considered. Producers please check out our website, www.spotlight-pictures.com, and contact us directly regarding your project.
Next up...The Distributor
Written by Zack Coffman. Follow Zack's film marketing tips and adventures @choppertown on Twitter.
So tell me a bit about Spotlight; who are you and how long have you been in business?
Spotlight Pictures is a full-service film sales company licensing all media rights of feature films worldwide. Spotlight started in 2005, but the core members of the Spotlight team have decades of experience in the international arena.
What is your position in the company and what is your background?
I am the President of International at Spotlight Pictures. I started at Spotlight in September 2011, but I have known the company CEO, Matthew McCombs, since I first started in the business, as an assistant to legendary buyer’s rep, Gordon Steel. I don’t want to mention how long ago that was! After working with Gordon, I then worked as an acquisitions executive for the Australian distributor, Becker Entertainment, working under Mark Gooder, where we acquired titles such as “The Blair Witch Project” and “Buena Vista Social Club.” I dabbled in the “new media” space for a while, then settled into sales about a decade ago.
You seem to be doing better than just surviving, but actually growing in the past couple markets, what's your secret?
We find that as we’ve grown as a company, producers have gravitated towards us. They appreciate our straight-talk; some sales companies are prone to give out overblown sales estimates just to secure a film, we analyze the market for them realistically. We also try and lay out a road map of the sales strategy and discuss marketing ideas with our producers, as it truly is a partnership. We know how much time and energy our producers put into making the film, so we want to match that time and energy in selling the film. We don’t represent a large number of titles so we can devote enough time and resources to the films we do represent.
Lionsgate acquires Summit, eOne gobbling Alliance, seems like the pond is shrinking; as an "indies' indie" what's your take on the current climate for independent financing and distribution?
Certainly independent financing has taken a hit since the banking crisis. However, there always seems to be a steady stream of investors who want to be involved in the film business, so I feel the death of independent cinema is exaggerated to some degree. Mergers and acquisitions seem to be cyclical as well. At one point, there were no mini-major studios or studio/indie hybrids, then there were a bunch of them, now there aren’t as many. Two years from now, who knows? All I know is, quality product will find a market.
What are some of the titles you currently have, and how was Cannes for you?
We had a great Cannes, I’m pleased to report. We closed deals in Germany, Japan, Latin America, Turkey, Middle East, UK, just to name a few. I will also be closing deals after the market. Our recent titles include “Atlas Shrugged: Part I” which had a theatrical release in the States on over 450 prints, “Millennium Bug,” a creature feature using only practical effects (no CGI!) which buyers loved, the family/dog, “I Heart Shakey 3D,” and the zombie comedy, “Detention of the Dead.” As you can see, it’s a diverse slate, but we know different buyers are looking for different types of product, so we want to make sure we have something for everyone. What they have in common is the passion of the filmmakers behind them.
What's your advice to indie producers?
My advice to producers is to make the film you want to make, but it couldn’t hurt to talk to a sales agent before you start down the path. Our current producers bounce ideas off us for their next projects all the time, and we’ll give them our advice from what our buyers are saying to us. We have no ego, so you can say, “I’m making this movie about a dandelion growing in the desert, as it’s a symbol of a young woman’s coming-of-age in post-World War II Mongolia, and you can’t talk me out of it!” And we’ll say, “If that’s your passion, and you have to make the film, then go for it…but can you at least have some name cast?”
What one piece of information would producers be surprised to know?
All producers are concerned about piracy, as are we. However, most producers have been given the advice that you don’t want to have your film released in foreign territories ahead of the Us release, due to piracy. In fact, the opposite is true. There is more piracy flowing out from the States than flowing into the States. Which makes sense, as pirates take advantage of the promotion and awareness from the Us release. You’ve seen the studios catching on to this, as “Battleship” was released very successfully in foreign territories well in advance of the Us release.
Are you open to being contacted even if a film hasn't won a prize at Sundance?
Certainly! We’re always looking for quality product, and that doesn’t mean you need festival accolades to be considered. Producers please check out our website, www.spotlight-pictures.com, and contact us directly regarding your project.
Next up...The Distributor
Written by Zack Coffman. Follow Zack's film marketing tips and adventures @choppertown on Twitter.
- 6/14/2012
- by Zack Coffman
- Sydney's Buzz
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.