MUMBAI: Vivendi Entertainment, formerly Vivendi Visual Entertainment (VVE), an established player in the DVD space, has expanded into theatrical releasing. As part of this expansion, Vivendi will partner with filmmakers to distribute a slate of 8-14 films per year. This new division will provide theatrical distribution and marketing services and coordinate P&A funding. This announcement was made by recently-named Vivendi Entertainment president Tom O’Malley.

Formerly, O’Malley served as General Manager of VVE. He will continue to report to Universal Music Group Distribution CEO and president Jim Urie.

"This expansion into theatrical releasing is a natural evolution for us. And there is no one better to guide Vivendi Entertainment than Tom. His leadership and innovation have played a key part in building the company and this promotion recognizes all of his success," stated Urie.

"Vivendi Entertainment now offers a full array of distribution services including theatrical, home entertainment, digital and television," added O’Malley.

"Launching the theatrical distribution division allows us to expand the services we provide to our customers and improve our overall market position. We offer an alternative to filmmakers where we do not produce our own films, instead our business model exists to provide focus and dedicated distribution and marketing services. The cornerstones for the company will continue to be collaboration and financial transparency."

In addition, O’Malley has tapped industry veteran Mike Doban to lead theatrical distribution. "I’m very excited to be part of Vivendi Entertainment." commented Doban. He brings 27 years experience in theatrical distribution and exhibition, including 15 years at United Artists. Additionally, he was co-founder of Freestyle Releasing where he supervised such releases as The Illusionist and An American Haunting.