Spanish trio mull mini studio
Deal would partner Avanzit, Cartel, Lauren
Per the Spanish press, the three companies have already signed off on a combo whose tentacles would stretch from Avanzit's high-tech services to Cartel's TV production to Lauren's movie production, distribution and exhibition. But insiders claim those reports are premature.
Lauren -- which has a weighty distrib slate for 2002 drawing on a preferential accord with Miramax and output deals with Artisan Entertainment and Radar Pictures -- has received many investment offers. The company, however, is not on the sales block.
The creation of a joint venture would build on a standing deal between Lauren and Cartel. Under its terms, Lauren handles theatrical distribution for many Cartel pics in Spain.
The business would also play off Cartel's strong production relations with Spanish broadcasters. Lauren also has a leading role in CAEC, Spain's biggest exhibition consortium.
