Richard Fletcher has been confirmed as the new distribution manager for Beyond Films, the theatrical releasing arm of the diversified Australian film and TV group that is best known as a sales agent.

The role sees Fletcher manage all distribution activities in Australia and New Zealand and take responsibility for the relationship with United International Pictures (UIP). Struck in October last year, this sees UIP handle booking and physical distribution of Beyond's titles, while leaving Beyond in charge of marketing and promotion (Screen International, Oct 22, 1999). While boosting UIP's claim to be handling more local titles, the deal also improves Beyond's ability to handle bigger films.

Fletcher joined Beyond in 1998 from the UK's Feature Film Company and has been an executive responsible for marketing and promotion in Australia and New Zealand. He takes creative credits for campaigns including Lolita, Pi and Girls' Night.

Beyond's slate for the coming months includes Cut In March, Strange Fits Of Passion and Set Me Free (Emporte-Moi) in April. Later in the year it will release This Year's Love, Trick, Kick, Forever Fever and My Mother Frank.