AMC Launches Leawood Films to Distribute Independent Movies

AMC Entertainment Holdings Inc. launched a new distribution unit called Leawood Films to increase the volume of small to medium-budget movies in theaters. The venture focuses on distributing works from emerging filmmakers across AMC's global cinema network and other theater chains, though the company will not provide direct financing for the productions.

To protect the theatrical window, Leawood Films will require movies to be shown exclusively in cinemas for 45 days, with a ban on streaming platform releases until 90 days after the initial premiere. This strategy addresses a decline in film supply resulting from the pandemic and 2023 labor stoppages.

Chief Executive Officer Adam Aron stated that increasing the number of movies in theaters is beneficial for AMC, Odeon, and other exhibitors. The new unit is supported by advisers Toby Emmerich, Ricky Strauss, and Kyle Davies, who previously held executive roles at Warner Bros. Pictures, Walt Disney Studios, and Paramount Pictures.