Barrandov ankling distrib biz

By VARIETY STAFF

PRAGUE --- Barrandov is phasing out its distribution activities, CEO Radomir Docekal told Daily Variety.

The move comes as part of a cutting back of activities by Barrandov Biografia, the film studio's production, promotion and distribution company.

With numbers-crunching a top priority since the ouster of former topper Vaclav Marhoul in May, the move was not unexpected.

Since its beginnings three years ago, the distribution unit had acquired few independent titles, albeit notable ones such as "Muriel's Wedding" and "Hold Onto Your Scarf Tatiana."

But it functioned more as a good will gesture than a money-making enterprise, and former head of distribution Denisa Strbova reckoned a solid financing commitment was needed to make it viable.

Karel Grief was appointed executive director of Barrandov Biografia, a title which further underlined the reduced importance of the company (previous toppers carried a CEO designation).