eOne inks output deal with Lakeshore for Australia, NZ

Distributor eOne has signed a multiyear output deal with Lakeshore Entertainment to distribute the US outfit’s titles in all media across Australia and New Zealand via local subsidiary Hopscotch.

Up to four films per year are expected to be released under the agreement, starting with Heitor Dhalia’s thriller Gone starring Amanda Seyfried and Wes Bentley in February 2012.

eOne, which acquired Hopscotch in May 2011, has had an output relationship with Lakeshore for Canada since 2007.

The US company’s portfolio includes recent crime-drama Lincoln Lawyer as well as Oscar winner Million Dollar Baby, Runaway Bride, The Mothman Prophecies and The Ugly Truth.

“We’re thrilled to join forces with Tom Rosenberg, Eric Reid, Gary Lucchesi and the Lakeshore team. Lakeshore consistently produces highly-commercial product and we’re pleased to be their chosen partner to service it to the Australian and New Zealand marketplace,” said Troy Lum, Managing Director, Hopscotch.

“eOne has been a trusted partner for us over the past several years and we’re proud to be alongside as their business grows and moves into new territories,” said Tom Rosenberg, Chairman and CEO, Lakeshore Entertainment. “Troy and his team have extensive knowledge and expertise in the Australian market and we’re thrilled to work with them as part of the larger eOne family.”

“It is very rewarding to have our quality film production partner Lakeshore immediately follow us into the Australia/New Zealand market. As we continue to expand our global film distribution business, we also continue to expand our existing relationships. We offer film producers a strategic partnership which, to date, has been the key to eOne’s success,” said Patrice Theroux, President, Filmed Entertainment.

The eOne group recently confirmed 12.5% annual growth for year ending March 31, 2011.