EXCLUSIVE: European media giant Antenna Group has launched Iconic Films, a production and distribution company led by Oscar-winning UK producer Gareth Ellis-Unwin.
The Athens-based outfit will operate under Village Roadshow Hellas, the leading multiplex chain in Greece, and is set to go into production on its first three films this summer. The ambition is to grow its production slate to between five and 10 features per year.
The Greek-language films are intended to have strong commercial appeal, aimed at the broadest possible audience, and will receive theatrical releases. An expansion into international co-productions is also planned.
As well as distributing its own titles, Iconic Films will acquire features for release in Greece and Ellis-Unwin is at the Cannes market talking to major studios and sales agents as the firm builds its distribution slate for 2026. Village Roadshow veteran Akis Voilas is head of distribution and sales for the new outfit.
“We’re creating something similar to Film4 or BBC Films in the UK, where you have the heft of a broadcaster supporting the ambition of a film enterprise,” said Ellis-Unwin. “Greece’s theatrical market is continuing to recover well post-Covid, with a 4% increase in admissions last year, so in a country where there is passion for films and filmmaking, we want to ensure we can deliver a wave of great movies.”
Antenna Group CEO Henning Tewes said Iconic Films would “redefine the landscape of Greek cinema”. He added: “We are excited to empower filmmakers to bring their visions to life, leveraging the group’s extensive media and entertainment ecosystem to reach audiences both here in Greece and internationally.”
Ellis-Unwin was previously head of film and animation at UK film training body ScreenSkills, stepping down in May 2023. His credits as producer include Steel Country, Zaytoun and The Kings Speech, which won four Oscars including best picture in 2011.
The executive will next attend the Los Angeles Greek Film Festival, delivering a masterclass and taking part in industry platform Discovery Days, before attending Toronto and the AFM later in the year.
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