UGC's 'Veil' snapped up

Kidman, Norton pic sold in key territories

By NANCY TARTAGLIONE

UGC Intl., the Gallic sales and production house behind "The Painted Veil," has sold the $35 million pic in most key territories, with an American sale likely to conclude today or Tuesday.

So far, Japan's Nippon, Italy's Medusa, Taiwan's CMC, Korea's Mongto, Russia's Central Partnership, Poland's Division, the Middle East's Italia Film, Israel's Shani and Portugal's Echo Filmes have picked up "The Painted Veil." Spain was set to sign Sunday, as well.

Gillian Armstrong will direct Nicole Kidman and Edward Norton in the film, which is based on a W. Somerset Maugham tale.