GMA Pictures and Columbia Pictures have signed a distribution deal for two upcoming films, Green Bones and KMJS’ Gabi ng Lagim: The Movie.
The contract was formalized at Columbia Pictures’ office in the Philippines on Sept. 5, signifying Columbia Pictures’ return to distributing local films in the country after an eight-year hiatus.
GMA Network’s Senior Vice President for Programming, Attorney Annette Gozon-Valdes, and GMA Pictures Executive Vice President Nessa Valdellon represented GMA Pictures at the signing. Columbia Pictures was represented by Managing Director Christopher Sy and Sales & Operations Manager Andra de Erquiaga Manas.
The agreement positions Columbia Pictures to handle the local theatrical distribution of both films. Green Bones, directed by Zig Dulay, is GMA’s official entry to the 2024 Metro Manila Film Festival and explores the story of a man accused of killing his sister and niece. The screenplay was co-written by National Artist for Film Ricky Lee. Meanwhile, KMJS’ Gabi ng Lagim: The Movie is a film adaptation of the horror-themed annual special from the popular TV show Kapuso Mo, Jessica Soho.
Speaking about the deal, Gozon-Valdes said, “We are honored to partner with Columbia Pictures, a company known for distributing some of the biggest Hollywood blockbusters, to make these films more accessible to audiences.”
Sy of Columbia Pictures expressed enthusiasm, stating, “We are excited to distribute GMA Pictures’ films and bring them to a wide audience, continuing our commitment to the theatrical experience.”
Lead actors from Green Bones, Dennis Trillo and Ruru Madrid, were also present at the signing.
Columbia Pictures, owned by Sony Pictures Entertainment, has distributed major global blockbusters such as Spider-Man: No Way Home and Venom. GMA Pictures has produced notable films like The Cheating Game and the 2024 Cinemalaya entry Balota.
