LGBT film distributor TLA Releasing has launched a new distribution arm in Italy.

TLA Releasing Italia will be spearheaded by Cosimo Santoro, former head of distribution at Atlantide Entertainment.

The label will be based in Turin and will launch with coming-of-age drama North Sea Texas, international hit Weekend and Elliot Loves.

TLA Releasing president Derek Curl said: “TLA’s goal for expansion is to service consumers in territories that currently lack access to LGBT films. Italy is a large market that has not been fully served in this genre and we are excited about establishing our brand in this arena.”

Santoro added: “In a territory where LGBT films still struggle to find sufficient distribution, TLA Releasing Italia will undoubtedly give films of this genre much-needed visibility.”

TLA Releasing launched in the US in 2001. Headed by Derek Curl, the distributor now has offices in New York and London (launched in 2005) and partnerships in countries such as France (Optimale/TLA), Tawain (G’Day Entertainment) and Poland (Tongariro Releasing).