Lions Gate Filmshas signed a multi-year, multi- picture development and production deal with LLCool J (aka James Todd Smith).

LL Cool J andJason Barrett of Alchemy Entertainment will produce all pictures under theventure, while Lions Gate's president of production Michael Paseornek andsenior vice president of production John Sacchi will oversee for the studio.

Lions Gate Filmswill retain all worldwide rights and Nicolas Meyer, president of Lions GateInternational, and Stephanie Denton, president of Lions Gate FilmsInternational, will handle international rights.

Robert Melnik,executive vice president of business and legal affairs, negotiated the deal onbehalf of Lions Gate Films.

The WilliamMorris Agency along with attorney Jason Sloan of Sloan, Webber, Offer and Dern,represented LL Cool J and Barrett.

"We are thrilledto be working with a talent like LL Cool J," Paseornek said. "LL and Jason fitperfectly with our mandate to continue to be the leading producer of films forthe urban market."

Alchemy Entertainment is amanagement-production company specialising in managing actors, writers anddirectors, packaging film and television projects, and arranging financing andco-financing deals.

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