The former co-CEO of Focus Features Andrew Karpen has announced his New York-based distributor backed by 5-Hour Energy founder by Manoj Bhargava.
Bleecker Street will hit Toronto scouting for content and has closed an output deal with Shivani Rawat’s ShivHans Pictures, whose slate includes Trumbo directed by Jay Roach starring Bryan Cranston, Helen Mirren, Diane Lane and Elle Fanning.
Karpen aims to release three to five films in 2015 and will expand in the years ahead.
“I’m looking forward to bringing the work of great filmmakers into the marketplace and I couldn’t be more excited to be launching this new company in New York City,” said Karpen, who will serve as CEO.
“Bleecker Street will be well positioned to distribute films on a platform or national basis, whatever best suits each title.”
The ShivHans Pictures titles include Viggo Mortensen drama Captain Fantastic directed by Matt Ross, as well as Danny Collins directed by Dan Fogelman starring Al Pacino, Annette Bening, Jennifer Garner, Bobby Cannavale and Christopher Plummer.
“Based on Andrew’s previous success in distributing films, I look forward to working with him in handling our upcoming slate through his new venture, “ said Rawat.
Karpen joined Focus Features as COO in 2002, was promoted to president in 2006 and climbed to co-CEO in 2012.
He oversaw the release of Academy Award-winners like Dallas Buyers Club, Moonrise Kingdom and Tinker Tailor Soldier Spy.
Bhargava was advised by Graham Taylor and Liesl Copland of WME Global.
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