Showtime Networks has signed an exclusive output agreement with Summit Entertainment.
The deal gives Showtime up to 42 films that will be released by Summit Entertainment between 2008 and 2012 to air on the network, including hit “Twilight” and its future installments. Other titles include “Knowing,” “Push,” “Next Day Air,” “Bandslam” and “Sorority Row.”
“We’re very happy to be in business with Summit Entertainment. The extraordinary success of ‘Twilight” and the films in Summit Entertainment’s pipeline will be a great addition to Showtime’s solid movie library at a price that is consistent with today’s marketplace,” Matt Blank, chairman-CEO of Showtime Networks, said in a statement. “This new exclusive output agreement will further solidify Showtime’s ability to provide our subscribers the best mix of award-winning original series and quality theatrical motion pictures for years to come.”
Earlier this year, Showtime lost its output deals with Paramount, MGM and Lionsgate, who joined with Viacom to launch a premium service to compete with Showtime, HBO and Starz Encore. (link to: )
Showtime signed a distribution deal with the Weinstein Co. in July.