MUMBAI: Paramount Pictures and Marvel Studios have inked an agreement under which Paramount will distribute Marvel’s next five self-produced feature films on a worldwide basis.

The deal, an extension of the original agreement made by Brad Grey when he arrived as CEO and chairman of Paramount Pictures, includes theatrical distribution in foreign territories previously serviced by Marvel through local distribution entities (Japan, Germany, France, Spain and Australia/New Zealand). The distribution pact capitalizes on Marvel and Paramount’s successful efforts with Iron Man, which has grossed $574 million worldwide for Marvel.

The live action releases include Iron Man 2 (7 May, 2010), Thor (16 July, 2010), The First Avenger: Captain America (6 May, 2011), and The Avengers (15 July, 2011). The distribution agreement also includes Iron Man 3.

"Coming off of Iron Man’s incredible success this summer, we could not be more excited about extending our relationship with Marvel. Marvel’s iconic brand, its popular characters and its proven ability to create compelling and visually spellbinding films complement Paramount’s great history of filmmaking. We look forward to a long and successful run together," said Paramount Pictures vice chairman Rob Moore.

"Paramount is an excellent partner and an outstanding global distributor. Through our experience on Iron Man, Paramount has demonstrated a passion and ability to release Marvel properties theatrically, allowing us to focus on making great movies for the largest audience possible," said Marvel Studios chairman David Maisel.

Marvel’s Iron Man, starring Robert Downey Jr. and directed by Jon Favreau, was distributed by Paramount earlier this year and was one of the top films of 2008. The DVD, including a version in Blu-ray, will be released on 30 September, 2008.