Having made its mark on the television industry with a win at the Golden Globes this year, Amazon is looking to expand to even larger screens in the future. According to a press release published on Monday, Amazon will begin production on its first slate of movies in 2015, with the intention of bringing 12 original films to theaters every year.
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Although this is a considerable announcement on its own, Amazon is also planning to bring the movies to its Prime Instant Video service within 4-8 weeks after they premiere in theaters.
The new initiative will be helmed by indie film producer Ted Hope, whose production company produced multiple Academy Award-nominated films, including Eat Drink Man Woman and Crouching Tiger, Hidden Dragon.
“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. To help carry the torch into the feature film world for such an innovative company is a tremendous opportunity and responsibility,” said Hope.
“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.”