Anna Sissons joins from Dogwoof to kick-start development of new film division; slate to be announced in autumn 2012.

Music video specialists Pulse Films has launched a film distribution arm, to be overseen by Anna Sissons, formerly of Dogwoof.

Sissons will be Film Distribution Manager for the new division which will aim to build a pipeline and develop a Pulse film catalogue.

The first film to be released under the Pulse banner will be LCD Soundystem documentary Shut Up and Play The Hits, which opens for one night in 50 cinemas across the UK and Ireland on Tuesday [Sept 4], with a post-screening Q&A with musician James Murphy transmitted live via satellite. The event film will also screen via Google+ Hangout. 

Pulse co-produced succesful 2012 music doc Katy Perry: Part of Me.

Thomas Benski, CEO of Pulse said: “Given the type of films we make, and the fact we are now financing a large proportion, we no longer see the value of enlisting a third party distributor. So setting up a distribution arm is a natural progression for Pulse’s development and growth as a media business. It is a strategic move to take control of the promotion and distribution of the slate of fan and event-based projects that Pulse has been producing for the last few years. These films require a different type of release strategy and we feel more suited to fully leverage those audiences.

“Pulse is using all its unique skill sets across branded entertainment, digital strategy, advertising and our extensive contacts in those areas. The aim is to create a new type of company, focused on audiences, that brings different techniques to film marketing and distribution.

“The initial releases will be a continuation of our music based features, which have demonstrated that they have a real value at the box office and are perceived by audiences as real events. The full slate will be announced in the fall of 2012.

“We are delighted to have someone of Anna’s experience on board to help spearhead this new division and with plans to distribute third party films in the near future, she will be an invaluable asset to the team.”