MGM has inked a deal with Annapurna Pictures to distribute all of its films in select international territories. The multiyear partnership is set to start this year with Annapurna’s first distribution title, Kathryn Bigelow’s untitled Detroit riots project, scheduled for release in the U.S. on Aug. 4.
The filmmaker’s upcoming movie about Detroit’s 1967 riots was previously announced as the first title released through Annapurna’s new marketing and distribution operation. The pic is described as a crime drama, which Bigelow is also producing with Annapurna’s Megan Ellison and Matthew Budman.
The MGM distribution deal includes films produced by Annapurna and headed to international markets like Germany, Scandinavia, Latin America, central Europe, pan-Asia and the Middle East.
MGM will handle the theatrical, home entertainment and TV rights on the film slate. “We have been strategically working to enhance the depth of our film pipeline, and it is incredibly exciting to be able to work with Annapurna, who are industry leaders when it comes to identifying and working with quality talent and filmmakers,” Chris Ottinger, MGM president, worldwide television distribution and acquisitions, said Monday in a statement.
