Will Clarke's Altitude launches distribution arm

Will Clarke’s Altitude Film Entertainment has launched film distribution arm Altitude Film Distribution.

Former Momentum executive Hamish Moseley has joined the outfit as head of distribution.

Moseley spent nearly ten years at Momentum Pictures, stepping down as svp of theatrical sales in April. Prior to Momentum, he spent two years as a film buyer for Cineworld.

Clarke and Andy Mayson head parent company Altitude Film Entertainment which now comprises Altitude Film Production, Altitude Film Sales and Altitude Film Distribution.

First films on the slate will be Asif Kapadia’s Untitled Amy Winehouse Documentary and Morgan Neville’s Sundance documentary 20 Feet From Stardom, a tribute to backup vocalists, which has already grossed well in the US.

Also on the slate is horror-thriller The Loch, co-produced by Altitude Film Production with James Watkins and co-written by Watkins with Simon Duric who will also direct. The film is scheduled to shoot next year and will star Peter Mullan.

Clarke, chairman and joint-CEO of Altitude Film Entertainment said: “When we set up Altitude a year ago we were looking to set up a British business that could evolve and expand.”

“As a producer we wanted to create a home for the most talented filmmakers in the world and are proud to have moved four films into production, developed partnerships with British and international filmmakers and brought 18 films to the market for international sales.

“The time is now right for us to take the next step and move into distribution.

Clarke, a former chief at Optimum, added that he was looking to acquire a “substantial” number of titles.

“We are going to the international marketplace to source a substantial number of films for UK distribution announcing our first two acquired titles today, as well as films from our own production slate,” he said.

Altitude’s joint CEO Mayson added: “The UK theatrical business is highly competitive and demands distinctive films and creative release campaigns, so we are delighted that Hamish Moseley will be working with us as head of distribution.

“Respected by the industry, he is a highly talented and passionate distribution executive with a sharp eye for great films as well as the skills and expertise to attract audiences to see them.”