Film restoration expert Paul Korver and former American Cinematheque head of programming Dennis Bartok have thrown their hat into the distribution arena with Cinelicious Pics.

The nascent company aims to release both new and restored art house and cult classics across the spectrum from theatrical to VOD, Blu-ray and DVD and TV, although the principals said the slate would not be genre or era-specific.

Rounding out the company’s leadership is head of business affairs, entertainment lawyer Kristine Blumensaadt, as well as a support team of marketers, publicists, and restoration talent.

The initial roster kicks off in autumn with Adam Rifkin’s documentary Giuseppe Makes A Movie, Ragnar Bragason’s Metalhead and Elena Tikhonova and Dominik Spritzendorfer documentary Elektro Moskva.

“We’re huge film enthusiasts, first and foremost, and have a deep appreciation for how challenging it can be to bring a unique film to a wider audience,” said evp of acquisitions and distribution Bartok. “Our goal is to present work that is compelling, thought-provoking and wildly entertaining. It isn’t genre or era specific; it’s about quality and films we truly love.”

“The hope is that people share our curatorial taste and become excited for what’s next,” said president and CEO Korver. “Like a film club brought to audiences wherever they consume content, including the beauty of a dark theatre.”

  • The Cinema Guild announced has taken US rights to Sergei Loznitsa’s Cannes Special Screenings selectionn Maidan, a documentary about the political crisis in Ukraine. The distributor negotiated with Maria Baker of Atoms & Void and plans a full theatrical release later this year followed by digital and home video. Cinema Guild previously released Loznitsa’s documentaries The Train Stop, Settlement, Portrait and Factory.