Atoori, Jayez form Tripod Pictures

Co. in post-production on 'Salomaybe?'

By DAVE MCNARY

Beni Atoori, president of Stonelock Pictures, and Al Jayez, president of Cheyenne Studios, have formed Tripod Pictures to produce and acquire films and distribute in the international market.

Los Angeles-based company, which has funding through a European bank, is in post-production on "Salomaybe?," directed by and starring Al Pacino. Kevin Anderson, Jessica Chastain and Estelle Parsons also star in the reinterpretation of Oscar Wilde's "Salome" produced by Barry Navidi and Robert Fox. Atoori was exec producer while Jayez co-exec produced.

Tripod is also in post-production on "Good God Bad Dog," a short film that examines man's role, significance and existence with and without God. "God" stars Tom Sizemore, James Russo, Joanna Pacula and Tim Thomerson and was produced and directed by Atoori, who co-wrote with Mitchell Cohen; Jayez exec produced.

The shingle's going into production in late April on "The Prince, the Pimp, the Jackal and the Spayed," a dark comedy starring Kashmera Shah ("My Bollywood Bride") and Tamera Mowry ("Sister, Sister"). Story by Atoori centers on a madam, a guru and a poker junkie who try to avoid falling victims to their own cons; Atoori will produce and direct with Jayez exec producing.

Tripod has also entered into a joint venture with Frank Mayor to distribute worldwide his AIM library of 1,200 titles. Deal includes remake rights.

Stonelock and Cheyenne will continue to operate independently.