MUMBAI: Vivendi Entertainment has named Larry Levy to the role of vice president and head of Theatrical Distribution Vivendi Entertainment. The announcement was made by Vivendi Entertainment President Tom O’Malley, to whom Levy will report.

Levy will be responsible for all aspects of theatrical distribution for Vivendi Entertainment. The company, one of the most sought-after independent home entertainment distributors, last year expanded into theatrical distribution. Since then, VE has been recognized by the industry as an important newcomer. The company’s next release is New York, I Love You, the latest in the Cities of Love series kicked off by Paris, Je T’aime last year. New York, I Love You boasts an A-list cast including Hayden Christensen, Chris Cooper, Ethan Hawke, Natalie Portman, Orlando Bloom, Christina Ricci, Shia LaBeouf, Julie Christie and James Caan to name just a few. On deck for later this year is Tennessee from producer Lee Daniels (Push, Monster’s Ball, The Woodsman) starring Mariah Carey. Also coming up in 2009 is Boogie Town, a dance film helmed by Chris Stokes (You Got Served), starring R&B star Marques Houston.

"Larry is a great addition to the VE team. He brings an impressive breadth of knowledge and experience to the company, having succeeded as both a film distributor and a buyer. His exceptional talent, insight and solid ties to the exhibition community will help further drive our success and garner maximum exposure for VE’s upcoming slate of theatrical releases nationwide," said O’Malley.

"I appreciate the confidence and support that Tom has given me to drive our theatrical distribution efforts," added Levy. "And I cannot wait to hit the ground running."