Japanese producer-distributor Gaga Corporation has announced several corporate promotions in a move to build on the the company’s recent successes in its acquisitions and distribution business.

Current head of theatrical booking and sales Takao Mizuno and head of acquisitions, planning and legal affairs Satomi Odake will both be appointed as board directors while continuing their current duties. Ken Shoji will be put in charge of the visual contents division, concentrating on video and TV licensing. Their positions will be made official at the next shareholders meeting on Oct 27.

Gaga chairman and CEO Tom Yoda commented on the timing of the promotions, which come just over two years after Gaga and Kinoshita Group acquired the company from former parent company Usen in July 2009. “Our acquisition and distribution business has been favourable. The new appointments shall enable Gaga to further accelerate our core business, proven by the successful distribution of Earth, Slumdog Millionaire, Oceans and The King’s Speech.” The King’s Speech earned $22m in the territory.

Former board member and chief marketing director Yuka Hoshino left Gaga at the end of June for Paramount Japan after thirteen years with the company. Hoshino was key in acquisitions, marketing and other aspects of the business.

Gaga is currently celebrating its 25th year in business. Three high-profile Japanese Gaga titles will screen at the upcoming Busan International Film Festival (Oct 6-14): Venice winner Himizu and Guilty Of Romance [pictured], both directed by Sion Sono, and Hirokazu Kore-eda’s San Sebastian winner I Wish.

Among Gaga’s foreign acquisitions screening as Japan premieres at the Tokyo International Film Festival (Oct 22-30) are opening film The Three Musketeers and special screenings Pina 3D and Young Goethe In Love. Gaga president and CEO Tom Yoda serves as TIFF’s chairman for the fourth year running.

 

  • Distributor: Gaga

 

 

 

 

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