Screen Media Films

Screen Media Films. It is an American independent film distribution and production company founded in 1999 by Seth Needle. A subsidiary of Chicken Soup for the Soul Entertainment, the company specializes in acquiring and releasing a diverse slate of feature films and documentaries across theatrical, digital, and home entertainment platforms. Its catalog spans numerous genres, including thriller, horror, drama, and comedy, often featuring notable talent from both Hollywood and the international independent scene.

History

The company was established in 1999, initially focusing on the home video market. In its early years, it built a library by acquiring rights to a variety of genre films and direct-to-video titles. A significant expansion occurred in 2015 when it was acquired by the Global Eagle Entertainment subsidiary Trinity Media Group, providing greater resources for acquisitions. Following the 2018 purchase of Chicken Soup for the Soul by Global Eagle Entertainment, it was integrated into the new parent company's entertainment division. Under the leadership of executives like David Fannon, it has steadily increased its output and market presence, navigating the shifting landscapes of theatrical release and digital distribution.

Film distribution

The company employs a multi-platform distribution strategy, leveraging both traditional and modern channels. It maintains relationships with major theatrical chains for limited releases, often partnering with other distributors for wider campaigns. A core component of its business is the digital and home video market, where it releases films on platforms such as iTunes, Amazon Prime Video, and Google Play. It also licenses content to subscription services like Netflix and Hulu, and operates several branded channels on YouTube and Roku. The company frequently participates in major film markets, including the American Film Market and the Cannes Film Festival, to acquire new titles for the North American market.

Notable releases

Its slate has included a wide array of films featuring acclaimed actors and directors. Notable theatrical and video-on-demand releases include the crime thriller The Bank Job, the horror film The Haunting in Connecticut, and the drama The Last Days of Chez Nous. The company has distributed documentaries such as The Last Days of Chez Nous and The China Hustle. More recent acquisitions have featured stars like Nicolas Cage in Primal, John Travolta in The Poison Rose, and Frank Grillo in Boss Level. It has also released international titles and festival favorites, including works from directors like Guy Ritchie and Luc Besson.

Business operations

As a wholly-owned subsidiary of Chicken Soup for the Soul Entertainment, it operates within a larger portfolio of media properties that includes DVD sales and digital media networks. The company's operations are centered on content acquisition, with a team that scouts projects at various stages, from completed films to works in progress. It often negotiates all rights deals for the United States and sometimes Canada. Financing and production involvement vary, ranging from pre-buying distribution rights to providing gap financing for independent productions. Its headquarters are in Cos Cob, Connecticut, aligning with its parent company's base of operations.

Reception and impact

Within the independent film sector, it is recognized as a consistent acquirer and distributor of mid-range genre and commercial fare. Trade publications like Variety and The Hollywood Reporter frequently cover its market acquisitions and release strategies. While its films rarely achieve major Academy Awards recognition, they often perform solidly on digital charts and find audiences through strategic marketing campaigns. The company's model of aggregating content for the evolving home entertainment market has made it a notable player, contributing to the visibility of independent films that might otherwise struggle for distribution amidst competition from major studios like Disney and Warner Bros..

Category:American film distribution companies Category:Companies based in Connecticut Category:Film production companies of the United States