by Thinus Ferreira
Canal+'s StudioCanal and Sun Africa Group (SAG) have signed a 3-year deal to do theatrical distribution for StudioCanal's English-language films in South Africa.
Under the long-term deal Sun Africa will distribute StudioCanal's slate of English-language feature films in South
Africa.
This will include animation titles, films from StudioCanal's genre label 6th
Dimension, as well as certain selected South African productions developed by StudioCanal and M-Net.
StudioCanal will for instance soon start principal photography at the end of June on the new English-language historical feature film, The Road Home in South Africa's Cape Town, telling the story of Paul Simon, Hugh Masekela and Miriam Makeba's formation of the Graceland band.
The first title to be released under the partnership will be the thriller Pressure, directed by Anthony Maras and starring Andrew Scott, Brendan Fraser and Kerry Condon.
Upcoming releases under the deal will include Danny Boyle’s Ink, Elsinore, Full Phil, The Custom of the Country and Sean Byrne’s The Mannequin.
Anna Marsh, CEO of StudioCanal and chief content officer at Canal+, in a prepared quote, says "South Africa is one of the world's most vibrant and influential creative markets, and our partnership with Sun Africa Group marks an exciting new chapter for StudioCanal's global distribution".
"We are proud to bring a bold upcoming slate to South African audiences while continuing to champion local storytelling and the theatrical experience."
"We also believe this collaboration with Sun Africa Group will create new opportunities for South African stories and creative talent to reach audiences around the world in the years ahead."
Debbie McCrum, Sun Africa Group CEO, in the supplied statement, says "Our partnership with StudioCanal represents a significant and exciting milestone for Sun Africa Group".
"By bringing their exceptional slate of high-quality films to cinema audiences across South Africa, we are strengthening our commitment to delivering world-class entertainment experiences."
"Leveraging our distribution expertise, together with our strong relationships and extensive reach within the exhibition landscape, we will ensure that StudioCanal's films are enjoyed as they were meant to be — on the big screen."
"This collaboration not only creates lasting value for both companies but also promises to deliver memorable and magical cinematic experiences to audiences throughout the territory."
