MGM launches DVD premiere division

New unit will produce 12 or more films annually to debut on disc

By Susanne Ault -- Video Business, 2/5/2007

FEB. 5 | Metro-Goldwyn-Mayer is the latest studio to launch a direct-to-video production unit.

Under the direction of VP Jason Weiss, the made-for-DVD division is expected to generate 12 or more films a year.

Last a production executive at MTV Films, Weiss will report to Charlie Cohen, MGM executive senior VP of finance and corporate development.

20th Century Fox Home Entertainment, which has distributed MGM’s catalog since last summer, is expected to also distribute the DVD premieres.

No creative details about the first titles were immediately available.

Warner Home Video, Sony Pictures Television, Paramount Home Entertainment and Fox are among the studios that have recently stepped up made-for-DVD programming initiatives.

Although acquired by a consortium of investment companies and Sony in 2004, MGM has remained active in film production. Last year, the studio signed on to distribute films from Tom Cruise’s new production company, United Artists.

“As consumers around the globe continue to want to view films in both the cinema as well as in their homes, the demand for quality direct-to-video productions will only increase,” said Rick Sands, MGM chief operating officer. “One of MGM’s primary activities is to continually replenish as well as maximize revenues from its large catalog of film and TV programming.”

Previously, Weiss held posts overseeing production and development at Paramount Pictures and New Regency Productions. He has supervised such movies as Along Came a Spider, The Ladies Man, Don’t Say a Word and The Runaway Jury.