AMC Theaters Expands into Movie Distribution with Leawood Films

AMC Theaters has launched Leawood Films, its own movie distribution label, aimed at bringing small to mid-sized films to the big screen. The label will focus on movies that have been completely financed and finished, but may not have otherwise received theatrical releases.

AMC Theaters Expands into Movie Distribution with Leawood Films

According to AMC Entertainment chairman and CEO Adam Aron, the decision comes in response to moviegoers' growing appetite for independent films. "Ultimately, moviegoers consistently demonstrate their appetite for a wide variety of theatrical content, and we believe there are more outstanding films that deserve the opportunity to find audiences on the big screen," Aron stated.

Leawood Films will offer filmmakers a range of benefits, including access to AMC's extensive network of screens, attractive economics, and proven marketing capabilities. This move follows the success of independent films like Obsession and Iron Lung, which found major backing from AMC and other major cinema chains.

The label's board of advisors includes industry veterans such as former Warner Bros Group chairman Toby Emmerich, former Walt Disney Studios marketing president Ricky Strauss, and former Paramount distribution veteran Kyle Davies.

AMC views Leawood Films as a "low-risk opportunity" with the potential to propel the next big film to stardom. With this move, the theater chain is further solidifying its position as a key player in the film industry, from exhibition to production.