Maverick saddles up to MBK

Urban action pic 'Game' to be first title

By MARY SUTTER

MIAMI -- Video distrib Maverick Entertainment has inked a deal to distribute the first three pics to be produced by music management company MBK, whose clients include Alicia Keys.

Deal was finalized during the American Black Film Festival, held June 26-30 in Miami Beach.

First title, urban action pic "Playing the Game," is skedded to go into production this summer.

Florida-based Maverick specializes in urban-themed direct-to-video titles. It recently formed a dedicated production arm, Sleeping Giant Films, which has an office in Los Angeles.