Amazon launches syndication unit for film and original series

Amazon Studios is launching Amazon MGM Studios Distribution to syndicate new releases and originals by MGM and Amazon Originals.

They will release over 4000 new films and 17,000 episodes of TV series. 

A revamp of MGM’s pre-existing distribution team, the division will now handle Amazon Studios/Prime Video originals in addition to current and library titles. Chris Ottinger, who headed the MGM distribution team for more than a decade, will oversee the new division.

Ottinger will report to Brad Beale, the VP of worldwide licensing and distribution at Amazon and MGM Studios; while Beale, reports to Amazon/MGM Studios head Jennifer Salke.

Amazon MGM Studios Distribution will launch at the LA Screenings market later this month.

The first collection of Amazon studios titles, which will be made available to MGM distribution partners worldwide, include feature films 7500, All the Old Knives, Bliss, Borat Subsequent Moviefilm, Coming 2 America, I Want You Back, The Tender Bar, The Tomorrow War, The Voyeurs and Without Remorse.

TV series include: Goliath, Hunters, and The Marvelous Mrs. Maisel. MGM TV titles will see Fargo, The Handmaid’s Tale and Vikings entering the market.

Jen Salke stated, “The launch of Amazon MGM Studios Distribution reinforces our commitment to bringing the very best content to audiences everywhere worldwide. With the integration of MGM, we wanted to take advantage of the existing team to expand our business in ways that will greatly benefit our customers around the world.”

Chris Ottinger then added, “Pioneering the distribution of Amazon Originals for Amazon Studios is an exciting opportunity to bring fresh, never-before available quality content to audiences around the globe. In doing so, we will break through the current sales mold by creating custom packages that will fulfil our client’s individual content needs.”