Universal Pictures International (Russia) has struck a theatrical distribution deal for Russia and CIS with Leopolis.

The agreement will cover both the films produced by Leopolis and those it acquires in the international market for distribution in Russia and CIS.

The slate for the rest of 2010 includes local thriller PyraMMMide, French hit Heartbreaker and Jason Statham-starring The Mechanic.

“This is a great chance to work with a major studio to get a wider market penetration for our films,” said Sergey Livnev, President of Leopolis. “We have always aimed for top quality in production and acquisitions; now we have the distribution structure to match that.”

adim Ivanov, Managing Director of UPI Russia, added: “We are very excited about making a long-term deal with one of the most successful production companies in Russia. Leopolis is well known for delivering high quality commercial films. We are confident that this collaboration will allow both companies to reach new horizons at the growing market.”