Amazon to Produce Original Movies for Theatrical, Online

SEATTLE: Amazon Studios, on the heels of its Golden Globe wins for the series Transparent, is set to begin producing original movies for theatrical release, with early window distribution on Amazon Prime Instant Video.

Amazon Studios says that its films—about 12 a year—will be released on Amazon Prime 30 to 60 days after theatrical rollout. Amazon Original Movies will focus on "unique stories, voices and characters from top and up-and-coming creators," according to a press release issued this morning.

“We look forward to expanding our production efforts into feature films," said Roy Price, VP of Amazon Studios. "Our goal is to create close to twelve movies a year with production starting later this year. Not only will we bring Prime Instant Video customers exciting, unique, and exclusive films soon after a movie’s theatrical run, but we hope this program will also benefit filmmakers, who too often struggle to mount fresh and daring stories that deserve an audience.”

Ted Hope has been tapped to lead the Amazon Original Movies initiative as head of production. Hope co-founded and ran Good Machine, whose credits include Eat Drink Man Woman and Crouching Tiger, Hidden Dragon. He won The Grand Jury Prize at Sundance Film Festival with his films American Splendor, The Brothers McMullen and What Happened Was….

“Audiences already recognize that Amazon has raised the bar with productions in the episodic realm, tackling bold material in unique ways and collaborating with top talent, both established and emerging," Hope said. "To help carry the torch into the feature film world for such an innovative company is a tremendous opportunity and responsibility. Amazon Original Movies will be synonymous with films that amaze, excite, and move our fans, wherever customers watch. I am incredibly thrilled to be part of this.”