Relativity Media extends Middle East distribution deal
Relativity Media LLC, the film and television studio founded by Ryan Kavanaugh, is expanding its business in the fast-growing Middle East market.
The company behind recent films such as “The Family,” “Safe Haven” and “Act of Valor” has expanded its deal with the Dubai-based firm Gulf Film LLC, which distributes more than half of Middle East releases.
As part of the multiyear partnership, Gulf Film will handle distribution of all of Relativity’s films in the region, the companies said Tuesday. Camela Galano, president of Relativity’s international sales and distribution business, will oversee the partnership.
The company is also setting up a new venture, dubbed Relativity Middle East, to partner with local filmmakers to produce movies, TV shows and digital entertainment.
Financial details were not disclosed.
ON LOCATION: Where the cameras roll
“Demand for high-quality entertainment content in the Middle East has been expanding rapidly over the past few years,” Kavanaugh said in a statement. “Relativity is committed to building on our already strong presence in the region and to help accelerate growth across the film, television and digital media landscapes.”
Relativity’s mafia film “The Family,” which stars Robert De Niro and debuted in theaters earlier this month, has generated about $26 million at the domestic box office so far. The comedy “Don Jon,” starring Joseph Gordon-Levitt, opens this weekend.
ALSO:
Internet radio services becoming more mainstream, survey says
Wang Jianlin’s film studio plan in China has a Hollywood following
New York Mayor Bloomberg touts made-in-New York winners at the Emmys
Follow on Twitter: @rfaughnder
From the Oscars to the Emmys.
Get the Envelope newsletter for exclusive awards season coverage, behind-the-scenes stories from the Envelope podcast and columnist Glenn Whipp’s must-read analysis.
You may occasionally receive promotional content from the Los Angeles Times.
