Notro takes stake in 'Oceans'

Film represents years of ocean exploration

By EMILIANO DE PABLOS

Spanish indie producer-distributor Notro Films has taken a 10% equity stake in the E50 million ($80 million) European docu "Oceans."

The docu represents the fruit of four years of deep ocean exploration by French filmmakers Jacques Perrin and Jacques Cluzaud, who co-directed 2002's Oscar-nominated feature docu "Winged Migration."

A Disney pickup for the U.S., the docu is produced by Perrin's shingle Galatee Films in association with Pathe, which also handles international rights. It will be ready to deliver in 2009.

Notro will retain Spain, Portugal, Italy and Latin American distribution rights, plus a percentage of international revs.

"Oceans" is the most expensive film production which Notro Films has boarded since it launched in 2004.

It's also the costliest pic project on which Notro-owner, Spanish conglom Vertice 360, has bet to date.

" 'Oceans' marks a further step toward the internationalization of Vertice," said Tomas Cimadevilla, Vertice general manager, film and theater productions. "We want to participate more actively in international projects, even as real co-producers, not only financial partners."

Vertice's involvement in "Oceans" ran to nature-docu producer Vertice subsid Cin TV providing production services when "Oceans' " shoot came close to Spanish territory.