New UK digital film company Slingshot Studios has announced a new UK distribution arm, Slingshot Distribution, which will handle 10-12 films per year.

Slingshot will acquire third-party projects and also work on Slingshot's own productions.

Elizabeth Draper, a veteran of Fox Searchlight UK, Icon and Pathe Film Distribution, has been named managing director of the new distribution business.

Slingshot CEO and co-founder Arvind Ethan David said: 'We've felt for a while that there was space in the UK market for a new independent distributor, supporting quality films with rigorous, focused marketing. We've waited to find the right person to run the business for us, and now we have her - Elizabeth combines a wealth of experience with a willingness to embrace the principles of digital experimentation which are core to Slingshot.'

Slingshot's initial slate includes Sugarhouse with Andy Serkis and Ashley Walters (sold by Moviehouse) and French Film (sold by The Works).

Slingshot is backed by Arts Alliance Media and the Creative Capital Fund. AAM also will handle Slingshot titles on their digital distribution platform and partner websites.

Draper added: 'I am very excited about working with this creative and innovative group of people. The chance to form a close-knit relationship with production and to apply my distribution experience so early on in the process is a real thrill, particularly during this time when digital technology offers so many new opportunities - not only in physical distribution but in marketing as well.'

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