In an unprecedented move for both companies, producer and distributor Harmony Gold and Slamdance Film Festival offshoot Slamdance Media Group have signed an exclusive three-year output deal and created a new alliance whereby Harmony Gold will become the exclusive international distribution arm of Slamdance Media Group. Under the agreement, Harmony Gold will hold all rights, including theatrical, broadcast (free and pay) and DVD distribution rights, and will have access to a minimum of 12 new films a year. Slamdance will maintain North American distribution rights. This years AFM in November will serve as the launch pad for the alliance.
We are very pleased to have joined forces with Harmony Gold and, in doing so, to have found a prestigious partner with a vast knowledge of the international marketplace, and an understanding of the value of the Slamdance brand in the independent film arena, said Slamdance Media Groups chairman/co-ceo, Robert Schwartz. We look forward to a long and successful association.
With our new partnership, Harmony Gold has provided Slamdance the right way to increase support for emerging filmmakers, added president/co-ceo, Peter Baxter. We think the combination of Slamdances branded approach and Harmony Golds experienced, hard working team offers new independent productions a real chance of international success as well as attractive deal terms.
Harmony Golds chairman/ceo Frank Agrama said, In a time of consolidation and down-sizing in the industry, it is imperative to develop strong, strategic alliances. We are confident that through our relationship with Slamdance we have created a cornerstone from which to build a longstanding, profitable relationship for all.
The Slamdance Film Festival was launched in Park City in 1995 to showcase undistributed films by emerging filmmakers. Slamdance Media Group was formed in 2004 to further enhance the opportunities for independent filmmakers in the areas of distribution, production and personal management.
Celebrating its 20th Anniversary in 2003, Harmony Gold has been active in the production, acquisition and distribution of international titles since its inception. See www.harmonygold.com for more information.
Rick DeMott
Animation World Network
Creator of Rick's Flicks Picks
