WWE Pins New Moniker For Production Unit
Supplanting WWE Films, WWE Studios Now The Brand For LA-Based Outfit
-- Multichannel News, 7/22/2008 11:08:00 AM
World Wrestling Entertainment has changed the name of its Los Angeles-based subsidiary from WWE Films to WWE Studios.
The new moniker, according to grappling group officials, is more reflective of the company’s diversified mix of filmed entertainment, including theatricals, direct-to-DVD movies, telepics, series and reality programming.
Early next year, 12 Rounds, starring the WWE’s John Cena, will be released by 20th Century Fox under the wrestling company’s first-look deals with Fox Atomic. Since the subsidiary’s formal inception in 2002, WWE has produced three theatricals, See No Evil, The Marine and The Condemned.
WWE Studios, in conjunction with 20th Century Fox Home Entertainment, also will debut its first direct-to-DVD film, Behind Enemy Lines: Columbia, starring Mr. Kennedy.
“The name change reflects our focus on expanding the variety of projects that WWE intends to pursue, from theatrical films to direct-to-DVD to television and other media platforms,” said WWE Studios president Michael Lake in a statement. “WWE Studios will continue to pursue opportunities which expand the integration of the WWE brand and its Superstars into filmed entertainment.”
