08/09/2003

DNA Films, the national lottery production franchise has set up a joint venture with Fox Searchlight, the specialised arm of US major 20th Century Fox to produce and distribute British films worldwide.
Trading under the same name: DNA Films, the new partnership has received full approval from the UK Film Council and will benefit from a fresh $50m investment from both parties. All new projects will be green-lit directly by DNA Films and will have a guaranteed release through Fox’s worldwide distribution network. The new venture will be run by one of DNA Films’ co-founders, the producer Andrew Macdonald (Trainspotting) and Allon Reich, while Duncan Kenworthy (Four Weddings And a Funeral), the other co-founder will leave the company and continue as non-executive director.

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In six years, the lottery franchise has produced six films including Danny Boyle’s successful 28 Days Later which was distributed by Fox worldwide. “Our partnership with Fox Searchlight is very exciting”, said Andrew Macdonald. “We have a shared vision and approach to filmmaking and we are committed to producing British films. The successful release of 28 Days Later confirms Searchlight’s exceptional sensitivity and skill at distributing distinctive films to a broad international audience”.
Also commenting on the alliance, Duncan Kenworthy said: “Global distribution and guaranteed financing for a slate if films are the twin keys to the growth of the British film industry”. “By Forging this important long-term partnership with Fox Searchlight, Andrew has succeeded in finally turning DNA Films into an important 'tent pole' for the independent British film sector”.
Founded in 1997, the lottery franchise DNA Films has been administered by the UK Film Council since 2000 and its six year contract is due to expire in February 2004. The other two franchises The Film Consortium and Pathe Pictures have had their contracts extended until January 2004.