Former Lionsgate, Image Entertainment and Maya Entertainment executive David Rand has formed Grand Entertainment Group (GEG), a multi-platform distribution and content development company based in Los Angeles.

Joining Rand in the venture are former Image Entertainment sales executive Richard Buchalter, who becomes VP of sales, and former Maya VP of marketing Gina Gilardi, who takes the same title at GEG.

GEG will distribute independent features, documentaries, children’s programming and other kinds of product in the DVD, digital, streaming, TV and limited theatrical markets.

GEG’s first two titles will be released in August and the company plans to subsequently release two to five films a month. Though it will focus on US distribution for 2012 the company will launch into the international marketplace next year.

CEO/president Rand said: “The timing is perfect for Grand. The market for indie films is still very strong especially since the bigger players are not interested unless [a film] has a big budget or big stars.”

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