Pathé has expanded its film library by acquiring five titles from London-based production company Celador Films, including the Oscar-winning “Slumdog Millionaire,” directed by Danny Boyle.
The deal strengthens a longstanding partnership between Pathé and Celador Films, led by founder Paul Smith. Over the years, Pathé has played a key role in the development, production, and global distribution of several films, including “Slumdog Millionaire.” The new agreement covers five films, among them Neil Marshall’s “Centurion,” Jon Harris’s “The Descent” and its sequel, “The Descent Part 2,” as well as Tom Harper’s “The Scouting Book for Boys.”
Pathé President Ardavan Safaee expressed enthusiasm for the acquisition. “We are thrilled to welcome these acclaimed titles, which have achieved both commercial success and prestigious awards recognition, into the Pathé library,” Safaee said. “We look forward to maximizing their potential and ensuring they continue to captivate audiences for years to come.”
Paul Smith highlighted the strong relationship between the two companies, noting Pathé’s successful track record as a distributor in the U.K. and France, and as a sales agent worldwide. “Throughout the majority of Celador Films’ existence, Pathé has acted efficiently and successfully as a distributor in the U.K. and France and as a sales agent in the rest of the world for almost all of the titles produced by Celador Films,” Smith said. “This new deal is a testament to this relationship, forged over many years, that we entrust Celador Films to their stewardship.”
Pathé is enjoying a successful year with several notable releases. Among them is “The Count of Monte Cristo,” which has become the second-highest-grossing French-language film of 2024, selling nearly 9 million tickets. Another highlight is Jacques Audiard’s crime musical “Emilia Perez,” which is representing France in the Oscar race. Both films will be competing at this year’s American French Film Festival.
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