Universal Pictures International has said yes to a two-year first-look deal with Australian Production House Hopscotch Features.
Universal’s London-based strategic arm and the Australian production banner apparently aim to develop and produce Australian projects with an international appeal. This pact marks the first English-language distribution and co-production deal that Universal Pictures International has secured in its bid to extend its tentacles and build presence in various markets across the globe. Hollywood has apparently decided to grow some wings.
UPI and Hopscotch aim to develop and produce one to two Australian flavored films per year that have distinct international appeal using key and international talent.
In exchange, Hopscotch will look to take advantage of UPI’s international distribution muscle with all titles being jointly rolled out theatrically by UPI and Hopscotch in Australia.
Script development and story ideas are being overseen by HAPPY FEET writer John Collee.
“Hopscotch is a commercially and internationally minded local production company with great talent relationships which makes them a really good partner for UPI,” said UPI president of international production and acquisitions Christian Grass. “Australia has delivered some of the most critically and commercially successful movies released internationally in recent years and is clearly an important market for us.”
Hopscotch head honcho Troy Lum said: “This partnership is a fantastic outcome for Hopscotch Features as it gives us international expertise and muscle to make more larger scale local features. It is also a great result for the Australian industry in general as it shows real studio commitment to our cinema landscape and specifically the local talent that makes it happen.”
Watch this space film fans…
