Showtime, Weinstein Co. Ink Distribution Deal

By Vlada Gelman

Showtime Networks has made an exclusive seven-year film distribution agreement with the Weinstein Co.

The deal is effective with Weinstein’s 2009 release schedule, which includes the films “Nine” from director Rob Marshall (“Chicago”) and “Inglorious Bastards” from Quentin Tarantino.

The deal also includes releases from Weinstein unit Dimension Films, whose relationship with Showtime began in 1997 with the airing of Dimension’s “Mimic” and “Scream 2.”

It's the first output deal for Showtime since it declined to renew its deal with Paramount. The studio then announced it was starting a new pay service with Lionsgate, MGM and Viacom, which would compete with pay cable networks such as Showtime and HBO.

“This exclusive agreement with the Weinstein Co. will deliver our subscribers an enormous and diverse slate of films at a price to Showtime that is consistent with today’s marketplace,” said Matthew C. Blank, chairman and CEO of Showtime Networks, in a statement. “Bob’s and Harvey’s films are known for quality and promotability, making them a perfect fit with the acclaimed and award-winning original series that have generated strong momentum and subscriber growth for Showtime. We will continue to pursue such value-enhancing deals in the future.”

(5:10 p.m.: Added fourth paragraph)