The deal comes as CBS Films retracts its distribution activity. As part of the arrangement, Lionsgate takes exclusive international sales rights.
The multi-year agreement kicks off in 2015 with teen comedy The Duff, which Sierra/Affinity is selling internationally according to a prior agreement.
CBS Films will continue to acquire, produce and self-distribute its own limited releases.
“Making movies is only half of the equation – today’s marketplace demands a strategic approach to marketing and distribution that is fluid and creative, and no company has demonstrated more vision and innovation than Lionsgate,” said CBS Films president Terry Press.
“As we build our home-grown slate and expand our efforts in the acquisition space, we’re thrilled to partner with the outstanding Lionsgate team on a plan that provides the flexibility to handle these ambitions.”
“CBS Films has emerged as a creative force that will serve as a commercially exciting and reliable source of quality mainstream theatrical releases for years to come,” said Lionsgate co-COO and motion picture group president Steve Beeks. “Our partnership unites two companies with powerful brands, complementary strengths and similar entrepreneurial cultures in a distribution agreement that extends the terrific Lionsgate/CBS relationship.”
Lionsgate and CBS are also partnered in TVGN, which is being rebranded as POP.
The Duff will open in early 2015 and stars Mae Whitman, Robbie Amell, Skyler Samuels and Bianca Santos. Ari Sandel directed from Josh Cagan’s adapted screenplay from the novel by Kody Keplinger.
McG, Mary Viola and Susan Cartsonis produce The Duff and Lane Bishop serves as executive producer.
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