The exclusive partnership means a limited Oct 12 national roll-out for Michael Gallagher’s film through the theatre chain’s AMC independent platform on 28 screens in 14 markets such as New York and Los Angeles.

AMC will also handle the marketing on the story of a troubled college student who investigates an urban myth about a serial killer who can be summoned through the internet. Caitlin Gerard, Melanie Papalia and Andrew James Allen star.

Michael J Gallagher, creator of the YouTube hit comedy series Totally Sketch, directed and co-wrote Smiley with Glasgow Phillips and Michael Wormser of Level 10 Films produced.

Gallagher and Wormser acted for Fever Productions in the negotiations with AMC vp of alternative and special content Nikkole Denson-Randolph.

The film will be available on DVD, Blu-Ray, iTunes, Redbox and VoD after the traditional theatrical release window.