Network Distributing has concluded a deal with Hammer Films to form Hammer Studios Ltd. According to an official press release, the new company will manage and control Hammer’s interests in its substantial library of content and will see heavy investment both in restoration and new production development from both its owned and newly created IP.
Existing content includes The Woman in Black (2012) – pictured above, Let Me In (2010), Dracula (1958), The Abominable Snowman (1957) and The Quatermass Experiment (1953).
Network’s Managing Director Tim Beddows and Financial Director Jonathan Lack, and Hammer’s CEO Simon Oakes will head the new company.
Network Managing Director Tim Beddows said: ‘This partnership is a really exciting opportunity to merge Hammer’s amazing library with Network’s infrastructure. Whilst we work our way through restoring its entire back catalogue for future generations’ enjoyment, we’re equally excited about the development of new productions from the Hammer canon.’
Hammer CEO Simon Oakes said: ‘This new partnership will, for the first time, professionalise the restoration and creation of elements that are essential for distribution of the Hammer library across all media. At the same time we will, with Network, be able to build on the legacy of Britain’s most iconic film brand, one that started in 1934 and is alive and kicking in 2021.’
