High-ranking Hollywoodproduction executive Richard Saperstein, who spent the last nine years at NewLine Cinema, has joined Artisan Pictures as president of development andproduction.

Reporting directly toArtisan Pictures CEO Bob Cooper, Saperstein is charged with overseeing thecompany's daily theatrical film development and production activities.Saperstein will work closely with Cooper to assemble a slate of films.

Saperstein spent the pastnine years at New Line Cinema where he ultimately held the postion of seniorexecutive vice president of worldwide production. Working alongside MikeDeLuca, he helped build the company and oversaw the production and developmentof films including Seven, Frequency, Magnolia, Boogie Nights, The Mask, RushHour and Dumb And Dumber.

Prior to joining New Line,Saperstein worked as a motion picture literary agent at ICM.

Artisan Pictures, run by Cooper, is the theatrical filmproduction, marketing and distribution arm of Artisan Entertainment.