Recent from talks
Nothing was collected or created yet.
StudioCanal
View on Wikipedia
StudioCanal S.A.S.,[1] also known as StudioCanal International and Canal+ Production and formerly known as Le Studio Canal+, Canal Plus, Canal+ Distribution and Canal+ D.A., is a French film and television production and distribution company and a subsidiary of Canal+ S.A.
Key Information
As of September 2025[update], the company has 13 production companies in Europe and the United States, and holds around 9,000 titles in its extensive film library. The company ensures the preservation and restoration of their titles for home video releases and digital platforms worldwide.
History
[edit]On 1 January 1987, Canal+ Productions was founded as a cinema film co-production subsidiary of the cable channel Canal+. The subscription channel was co-founded by André Rousselet[2] and Pierre Lescure in 1984.[3][4] This was to reduce Canal+'s dependence on the American major studios by building its own library that the pay-TV channel could use on their own channels and internationally.[2]
By December 1990, Canal+ Productions rebranded to Le Studio Canal+, and released its first film, The Double Life of Veronique, by Krzysztof Kieslowski.[4] By the early 1990s, it became apparent that Canal+ was a major contributor to the French film industry, with its obligation to spend 10% of its income on French-made films, as well as being Europe's largest buyer of American film rights.[2] Canal+ also made investments in other companies. In 1991 it bought a five percent stake in the independent American studio Carolco Pictures.[2] However, in 1992, Le Studio Canal+ suffered financial difficulties after Carolco Pictures entered a corporate restructure.[citation needed]
StudioCanal's most notable productions from its early years include Terminator 2: Judgment Day, JFK, Basic Instinct, Cliffhanger, Under Siege, Free Willy, and the original Stargate movie. In those days, it was known as either Le Studio Canal+ or simply Canal+.[citation needed]
Other films the company financed include U-571, Bully, and Bridget Jones's Diary. StudioCanal also funded the last third of David Lynch's film Mulholland Drive.[5] StudioCanal also financed French-language films, such as Brotherhood of the Wolf (which became the sixth-highest-grossing French-language film of all time in the United States) and Intimate Strangers. Films such as Terminator 2: Judgment Day which grossed US$519 million, Basic Instinct which grossed US$352 million and The Tourist which grossed US$278 million worldwide, have been big box-office hits for StudioCanal.[6][7][8]
In January 1996, Le Studio Canal+ made a $56 million bid for the library of the American independent film studio Carolco Pictures. 20th Century Fox (now 20th Century Studios), which had originally agreed to buy the library for $50 million, had dropped their bid to $47.5 million and ultimately dropped out of contention, making this acquisition Canal+'s first foray into library acquisitions.[9][10]
Le Studio Canal+'s original plan was to build a pan-European distribution network. They made their first known acquisition into a foreign market in 1997 when they bought a 20% minority stake in German film distribution company Tobis Film, marking their first entry into the German movie distribution market; they would later increase their stake to 60% in February 2000, renaming the company Tobis StudioCanal.[11][12]
On 1 December 1998, all of Canal+ film, television, music, video production activities, etc., were grouped into a new entity, Canal+ Image, which was rebranded StudioCanal in 2000.[4]
In December 2000, StudioCanal partnered with Italian public broadcasting company RAI through the latter's division Rai Cinema to launch a joint venture distribution company in Italy, marking StudioCanal's first entry into the Italian film production and distribution market; the joint venture film distribution company's name was later revealed to be 01 Distribution one year later in May 2001.[13][14] However, in June 2003, StudioCanal announced it had relinquished their 50% stake to RAI, giving the latter full control of 01 Distribution.[15][16]
In July 2001, StudioCanal entered the Spanish film industry by acquiring a 45% stake in Sogepaq from Spanish pay television company Sogecable (Vivendi Universal owned 21% of Sogecable at the time) for $36.2 million, also giving the former a 73% controlling stake in its Spanish subsidiary StudioCanal España and a minority stake in the joint venture Warner Sogefilms.[17][18][19] The following month, StudioCanal acquired a 52% stake in French television production powerhouse Expand.[20]
In May 2002, StudioCanal expanded their Italian operations by setting up an in-house production outfit based in Rome named StudioCanal Urania, aiming to produce up to three films annually.[21]
In late-September 2002, StudioCanal announced that they and BAC Majestic had parted ways. Terms of the deal included the sale of their joint venture Mars Distribution to StudioCanal, while BAC Distribution would revert to BAC Majestic.[22][23]
Staff departures and its parent Vivendi Universal's debt forced StudioCanal to gradually sell off their interests in these companies:
- Tobis StudioCanal was subject to a management buyout by CEO Kilian Rebentrost and shareholder Pathé in December 2002 and renamed back to Tobis Film, although the two companies maintained their business relations.[24][11]
- Sogepaq was sold back to Sogecable in July 2003 for £48 million ($54.2 million).[25]
- Mars Films split from StudioCanal in 2007 to become independent; StudioCanal would later buy a 30% stake in the company in September 2015 and begin controlling its library in August 2021.[26][27][28][29]
Three years later, StudioCanal re-entered the international market by acquiring British film distributor Optimum Releasing in May 2006 as their first expansion into the United Kingdom, releasing their British film and television catalogue, including the EMI Films library, through the newly acquired company.[30] A year later in 2007, Optimum Home Entertainment and Lionsgate UK acquired Elevation Sales, a home entertainment sales and distribution company.[31][32]
In August 2007, StudioCanal partnered with NBC Universal's international home entertainment division Universal Pictures International Entertainment to launch a joint venture home entertainment distribution subsidiary called Universal Studio Canal Video.[33]
In January 2008, StudioCanal acquired German-based film independent distributor Kinowelt, which had distributed StudioCanal's films there until then, marking a re-entry for StudioCanal into the German market.[34][4] Kinowelt also owned the DVD label Arthaus. Both Optimum Releasing and Kinowelt have since been merged into StudioCanal were rebranded as StudioCanal Limited and StudioCanal GmbH respectively.[35]
In January 2012, StudioCanal expanded its European operations by acquiring a majority stake in Munich-based producer and distributor Tandem Productions, marking the company's first major move into television production. StudioCanal would later buy out the company's remaining shares in May 2020.[36][37]
In July 2012, StudioCanal made a deal with Australian & New Zealand cinema chain Hoyts to acquire the latter's independent film distribution division Hoyts Distribution, marking StudioCanal's first acquisition outside of Europe and its first entry into the Australian film & television distribution market; the company was rebranded to StudioCanal Pty Limited one year later in April 2013.[38][39]
In December 2013, StudioCanal announced its acquisition of a majority stake in the British independent TV production company Red Production Company, expanded StudioCanal's British activities into the British television industry.[40]
In May 2014, StudioCanal expanded their operations into the Scandinavian market, joining forces with Danish screenwriter & author Søren Sveistrup, screenwriter Adam Price and film & television producer Meta Louise Foldager to launch a new Danish television production company based in Copenhagen named SAM Productions, with the latter becoming CEO of the new production company.[41]
In September 2014, StudioCanal announced a first-look deal with the newly established American entertainment company The Picture Company, founded by former Silver Pictures employees Andrew Rona and Alex Heinemann. The deal was extended in May 2023, with StudioCanal acquiring a minority stake in the company alongside a new five-year deal.[42]
In May 2015, StudioCanal collaborated with Japanese publishing company Kadokawa Corporation to restore Akira Kurosawa’s highly acclaimed film Ran for its 30th anniversary with French film processing company Éclair restoring the film in 4K under the supervision of the two companies ahead of the film's re-release in Japanese theatres before releasing it to French cinemas.[43]
In April 2016, StudioCanal further extended their British film & television activities by acquiring a 20% stake in two London-based British film & television production companies: actor Benedict Cumberbatch's film and television production company SunnyMarch TV and Johnny Capps & Julian Murphy's television production company Urban Myth Films; they also acquired a 33% stake in Spanish television production company Bambú Producciones, marking StudioCanal's re-entry into the Spanish film & television production business.[44][45]
In June 2016, following the success of the 2014 film Paddington, StudioCanal acquired the Paddington Bear brand along with Paddington & Company and The Copyrights Group, the franchise's merchandise licensing agent. StudioCanal then announced that it would be producing three more Paddington films, including a show on Nick Jr. in 2020.[46]
In 2017, StudioCanal, who owns Carolco Pictures' library, reached an agreement with the revived American film studio Carolco, whereby the French film production & distribution studio would have sole control of the Carolco name and logo and the revived Carolco Pictures company would be renamed Recall Studios; this agreement settled a legal dispute over the Carolco mark brought by StudioCanal.[47][48] The arrangement took effect on November 29 of that year.
In July 2021, StudioCanal announced their acquisition of German production company Lailaps Films.[49]
In June 2022, StudioCanal expanded into the Benelux film & television market by acquiring a majority stake in the Dutch independent film production and distribution firm Dutch FilmWorks.[50]
In October 2022, StudioCanal entered a partnership with Rome-based Italian film production company Elsinore Film to jointly co-develop and co-produce a slate of scripted and unscripted content for the international market, marking a re-entry for StudioCanal into the Italian film & television business.[51]
In March 2024, StudioCanal launched their first in-house production label, an unnamed film & television production genre label dedicated to horror, thriller and sci-fi action movies and had hired former StudioCanal UK executive Jed Benedict as the CEO of the label.[52][53] In February 2025, the label, now christened Sixth Dimension, made its first acquisition by acquiring distribution rights outside North America to an upcoming reboot of the Silent Night, Deadly Night series from Cineverse.[54]
In April 2024, StudioCanal established an in-house production label dedicated to publishing book-to-screen adaptations called StudioCanal Stories, which would produce film and television adaptations of famous books and novels; StudioCanal had previously produced adpatations of novels such as War of the Worlds. StudioCanal's head of TV series department Sarah Reese Geffroy was appointed senior vice president of the new label.[55]
In July 2024, StudioCanal expanded their American operations by launching their second American office based in New York City and promoted former global distribution sales chief Anne Chérel to oversee the office as StudioCanal's chief commercial officer.[56]
In September 2024, StudioCanal rebranded their merchandising and licensing company The Copyrights Group to StudioCanal Kids & Family to expand their kids and family brand portfolio; they will also lead worldwide brand development, licensing and retail services, with Francoise Guyonnet continuing to be the CEO of the renamed division.[57][58]
In October 2024, StudioCanal signed an international distribution deal with American independent film production company River Road Entertainment for nine feature films and two documentaries for theatrical, television, SVOD and other media.[59]
In June 2025, StudioCanal announced their decision to shut down British television production outfit Red Production Company due to Patrick Schweitzer stepping down as chief executive officer, with Red's current and future slate being taken over by StudioCanal's British television production division StudioCanal TV UK.[60]
In October 2025, StudioCanal reorganized its worldwide television production division under executive managing director Mary-Kathryn Kennedy, bringing all of StudioCanal's television production subsidiaries under one senior management team. As part of the reorganisation, Alix Lebrat was named senior vice president of series for France & Southern Europe and would oversee French & Spanish-language states, with StudioCanal planning to borden its scripted production in its home country under labels such as 2eme Bureau.[61][62]
Production companies
[edit]- StudioCanal Stories - A dedicated book-to-screen adaptation label based in Paris, France that handles adaptation of famous literary novels & best-known books into film & television series.[63]
- Sixth Dimension - a production label dedicated to genre films (similar to Screen Gems or the former Dimension Films)
Film library
[edit]StudioCanal acquired film libraries from studios that either became defunct or had merged with it over the years, currently holding more than 9,000 titles as a result.[64]
StudioCanal owns the libraries of the following companies:
- Carolco Pictures[65][66]
- The Vista Organization
- Seven Arts (joint venture with New Line Cinema)
- Paravision International
- Lumiere Pictures and Television[69] (currently owned as a result of parent company Canal+ Group's acquisition of cinema operator UGC who acquired those companies, via Weintraub Entertainment Group)
- EMI Films[70][71][72]
- British Lion Films[70]
- Individual Pictures
- The 1947–1955 London Films library[70] (pre-1947 titles owned by ITV Studios)
- Anglo-Amalgamated[70]
- Anglo-Amalgamated Film Distributors
- Associated British Picture Corporation[70]
- ABC Weekend TV
- Associated British Productions
- British International Pictures[73]
- Ealing Studios[70][74][75]
- Associated Talking Pictures and Associated British Film Distributors
- Pathé News
- Welwyn Studios[73]
- British Lion Films[70]
- EMI Films[70][71][72]
- Almi Pictures/Television catalog
- Romulus Films[76]
- Hammer Film Productions (distribution rights)[77]
- Alexander Salkind/Pueblo Film Licensing (the non-Superman films not owned by Warner Bros.)
- Quad Cinema[78]
- Regency Enterprises (TV rights only, France)
- Spyglass Entertainment (TV rights only, France, Benelux, Sweden and Poland)
- American Zoetrope (distribution rights)
Former agreements
[edit]- Miramax (most international home video releases; 2011–2020) (rights now held by Paramount Home Entertainment)
- Studio Ghibli (United Kingdom and the Republic of Ireland only; ended in December 2022) (rights now held by Elysian Film Group starting with Earwig and the Witch; rights to My Neighbour Totoro, Spirited Away and Howl's Moving Castle are co-owned by Elysian and Anonymous Content, those to Princess Mononoke are co-owned by Elysian and Goodfellas and those to The Boy and the Heron are co-owned by Elysian, Bleecker Street and Anonymous Content; excluding rights to Grave of the Fireflies, currently held by Anime Limited)
Television series
[edit]StudioCanal currently[when?] owns the rights to over 30 television series, mostly produced by TANDEM Productions and Red Production Company, including The Avengers, Rambo: The Force of Freedom, Paranoid, Public Eye, Crazyhead, Take Two, Wanted Dead or Alive, The Adventures of Paddington (2019), and international rights to The Big Valley.[citation needed]
| Title | Years | Network | Notes |
|---|---|---|---|
| Mighty Max | 1993–1994 | Canal+ BBC (United Kingdom) Syndication (United States) |
under Canal+ D.A co-production with Bluebird Toys and Film Roman |
| Leo & Popi[79] | 1994–1997 | France 3 | under Canal+ D.A with Les Cartooneurs Associés, Ellipse License, Elma Animation and TAL Productions |
| The Adventures of Paddington | 2019–2025 | Gulli, M6 & Piwi+ Nick Jr. UK Nickelodeon (international) |
co-production with Heyday Films, Blue Zoo Animation Studio and Superprod Animation |
| The Man Who Fell to Earth | 2022 | Showtime | co-production with CBS Studios, Secret Hideout and Timberman/Livery Productions |
| La Promesa[80] | 2023–present | La 1 (Spain) | co-production with Bambú Producciones |
| Valle salvaje | 2024–present | ||
| Paris Has Fallen[81][82] | 2024–present | Canal+ | co-production with Urban Myth Films, Millennium Media and G-BASE |
| Playing Nice[83][84][85] | 2025 | ITV1 | under StudioCanal TV UK co-production with Rabbit Track Pictures |
| Miffy & Friends[86] | 2025 | Canal+ | co-production with Mercis BV and Superprod Animation |
| Apollo Has Fallen[87] | TBA | Sequel to Paris Has Fallen co-production with Urban Myth Films, G-BASE and Millennium Media | |
| Murder Most Unladylike[88] | TBA | TBA | under StudioCanal Stories[89] co-production with Strong Film & Television and Unladylike Productions |
Distribution
[edit]Outside France, the British Isles, Australia, New Zealand and Germany, StudioCanal does not have a formal distribution unit per se, instead relying on other distribution studios and home video distributors to handle their titles. In North America for example, The Criterion Collection, Rialto Pictures, Lionsgate Home Entertainment, Metro-Goldwyn-Mayer (for the Embassy catalog), Universal Pictures (for co-productions), Shout! Studios and Kino Lorber distribute StudioCanal's back catalogue on DVD and Blu-ray Disc (in addition, Anchor Bay Entertainment and Image Entertainment previously owned several of their titles). Sony Pictures Home Entertainment has handled distribution of StudioCanal/Hoyts Distribution films in Australia and New Zealand on DVD and Blu-ray since early 2013.
From the 1990s to early 2000s, Warner Home Video formerly handled distribution of select StudioCanal titles through the Canal+ Image label in the United Kingdom on VHS and DVD until 2006 when StudioCanal opened its own distribution unit in the UK, with titles distributed through Optimum Releasing (via Universal Pictures Home Entertainment from 2006 to 2007 and Elevation Sales since 2007).[30]
StudioCanal had the European home video distribution rights to 550 titles from the Miramax library, shared with Lionsgate in the UK and Ireland, from 2011 to 2020,[90][91] when ViacomCBS bought a minority stake in Miramax.
On 13 October 2021, StudioCanal announced that its global distribution deal with Universal would expire in January 2022.[92]
Selected films produced by StudioCanal or associated companies
[edit]- The Doors (1991)
- Terminator 2: Judgment Day (1991)
- JFK (1991)
- The Mambo Kings (1992)
- Basic Instinct (1992)
- Universal Soldier (1992)
- Under Siege (1992)
- Chaplin (1992)
- Sommersby (1993)
- Falling Down (1993)
- Cliffhanger (1993)
- Free Willy (1993)
- Stargate (1994)
- Free Willy 2: The Adventure Home (1995)
- U-571 (2000)
- O Brother, Where Art Thou? (2000)
- Bridget Jones's Diary (2001)
- Johnny English (2003)
- Paddington (2014)
- How to Make A Killing (2026)
References
[edit]- ^ "T-800 Endoskeleton".
- ^ a b c d "Canal Plus". Encyclopedia.com. 18 May 2018. Retrieved 16 May 2024.
- ^ Milmo, Dan (16 April 2002). "Lescure ousted at Canal Plus". The Guardian. Retrieved 16 May 2024.
- ^ a b c d "L'histoire du Groupe CANAL+ de 1983 à nos jours". Canal+. 1 January 2012. Archived from the original on 5 February 2012.
- ^ Mulholland Drive at IMDb
- ^ "Terminator 2: Judgment Day". Box Office Mojo. Retrieved 22 August 2013.
- ^ "Basic Instinct". Box Office Mojo. Retrieved 22 August 2013.
- ^ "The Tourist". Box Office Mojo. Retrieved 22 August 2013.
- ^ Bates, James (17 January 1996). "New Carolco Library Bid Sends Fox Running". Los Angeles Times. Archived from the original on 13 January 2023. Retrieved 17 May 2024.
- ^ "COMPANY NEWS; CAROLCO PICTURES FILES FOR BANKRUPTCY PROTECTION". New York Times. 11 November 1995.
- ^ a b Nartowicz, Alexandra (3 January 2003). "StudioCanal sells its share of Tobis". Cineuropa. Retrieved 26 November 2023.
- ^ "Le Studio Canal Plus maps German distrib". Variety. 17 February 2000. Retrieved 21 December 2024.
- ^ Young, Deborah (21 December 2000). "StudioCanal buildup". Variety. Retrieved 21 December 2024.
- ^ Rooney, David (15 May 2001). "Smart start for StudioCanal-RAI's 01". Variety. Retrieved 21 December 2024.
- ^ Rodier, Melanie (2 November 2003). "RAI bags hot US trio". Screen Daily. Retrieved 12 June 2025.
- ^ Lange, André; Newman-Baudais, Susan; Hugot, Thierry (2007). Film Distribution Companies in Europe (PDF) (Report). Strasbourg: European Audiovisual Observatory. p. 170. ISBN 978-92-871-6020-1. Retrieved 10 June 2025 – via ORBi.
- ^ Hopewell, John (2 July 2001). "Vivendi U buys into Sogepaq". Variety. Retrieved 26 November 2023.
- ^ Frater, Patrick (2 July 2002). "StudioCanal acquires 45% of Sogepaq for $36m". Screen International. Retrieved 26 November 2023.
- ^ "StudioCanal acquires 45% of Sogepaq". Unifrance. 5 July 2001. Retrieved 26 November 2023.
- ^ Saint Marc, Francoise Meaux (20 August 2001). "StudioCanal secures control of TV producer Expand". Screen Daily. Retrieved 21 December 2024.
- ^ Frater, Patrick (18 May 2002). "Studio Canal unveils Italian film production unit". Screen Daily. Retrieved 21 December 2024.
- ^ Meaux Saint Marc, Francoise (2 October 2002). "StudioCanal grabs Mars Films, gives Bac new hope". Screen International. Retrieved 26 November 2023.
- ^ Lemercier, Fabien (27 November 2002). "Bac distribution splits up". Cineuropa. Retrieved 21 December 2024.
- ^ Meza, Ed (1 December 2002). "Viv U scootin' Teuton distrib". Variety. Retrieved 26 November 2023.
- ^ "Viv U sells its Sogepaq stake". Variety. 10 July 2003. Retrieved 26 November 2023.
- ^ "Celerier says Mars can do it all". The Hollywood Reporter. 15 February 2008. Retrieved 26 November 2023.
- ^ "StudioCanal Acquires 30% Of Mars Films; Appoints Didier Lupfer As President". Deadline Hollywood. 29 September 2015. Retrieved 26 November 2023.
- ^ Keslassy, Elsa (20 August 2021). "Studiocanal to Operate Heavy-Hitting Mars Films Library as French Distributor Finalizes Restructuring". Variety. Retrieved 26 November 2023.
- ^ James, Alison (31 January 2007). "Courson taking charge at Studio Canal". Variety. Retrieved 21 December 2007.
- ^ a b James, Alison; Dawtrey, Adam (7 May 2006). "Studio Canal moves into Blighty". Variety. Retrieved 4 September 2011.
- ^ "About Us". Elevation Sales. Retrieved 16 July 2022.
- ^ Andrews, Sam (20 May 2007). "Optimum, Lionsgate to buy Elevation Sales". The Hollywood Reporter. Retrieved 16 July 2022.
- ^ James, Alison (29 August 2007). "Universal pacts with Studio Canal". Variety. Retrieved 20 December 2024.
- ^ "StudioCanal buys Kinowelt". Variety. 17 January 2008.
- ^ "Optimum, Kinowelt to be rebranded as StudioCanal". Screen Daily. 30 June 2011.
- ^ Maza, Ed; Hopewell, John (12 January 2012). "StudioCanal acquires Tandem". Variety. Retrieved 2 May 2024.
- ^ "StudioCanal Takes Full Control of 'Pillars of the Earth' Producer Tandem". The Hollywood Reporter. 12 May 2020. Retrieved 2 May 2024.
- ^ "Studiocanal buys Hoyts Distribution". Variety. 17 July 2012. Retrieved 19 September 2024.
- ^ "Hoyts Distribution renamed STUDIOCANAL in Australia and New Zealand". IF Magazine. 4 March 2013. Archived from the original on 9 April 2013.
- ^ Chapman, Stephen (5 December 2013). "StudioCanal acquires stake in Red Production Company". Screen Daily. Retrieved 2 May 2024.
- ^ Tartaglione, Nancy (14 May 2014). "StudioCanal Teams With 'The Killing' & 'Borgen' Creators In SAM Production Co". Deadline Hollywood. Retrieved 20 December 2024.
- ^ Fleming, Mike Jr. (22 May 2023). "StudioCanal Acquires Mintory Stake in The Picture Company". Deadline Hollywood. Retrieved 2 May 2024.
- ^ Maunula, Vili (5 May 2015). "Akira Kurosawa's Ran will return to cinemas". Akira Kurosawa Info. Retrieved 20 December 2024.
- ^ Hopewell, John; Keslassydate=April 4, 2016, Elsa (4 April 2016). "MipTV: Studiocanal Buys Into Benedict Cumberbatch's Sunny March, Urban Myth, Spain's Bambu". Variety. Retrieved 20 December 2024.
{{cite web}}: CS1 maint: numeric names: authors list (link) - ^ Tartaglione, Nancy (4 April 2016). "Studiocanal Invests In 3 Euro Indies; Benedict Cumberbatch's SunnyMarch Among Them – MIPTV". Deadline Hollywood. Retrieved 20 December 2024.
- ^ Hopewell, John; Keslassy, Elsa (20 June 2016). "Studiocanal Acquires Paddington Bear Brand, Plans Third Paddington Movie". Variety.
- ^ "Carolco Pictures Inc. Form 10-Q, August 21, 2017". Retrieved 31 December 2022.
- ^ "Carolco Pictures, Inc. Form PRE 14C, September 28, 2017". Retrieved 31 December 2022.
- ^ "StudioCanal buys German prodco Lailaps". C21Media. 7 July 2021. Retrieved 2 May 2024.
- ^ "StudioCanal Takes Majority Stake in Dutch Filmworks". The Hollywood Reporter. 20 June 2022. Retrieved 2 May 2024.
- ^ Vivarelli, Nick (October 2022). "Studiocanal Moves Into Production in Italy by Forging Partnership With Elsinore Film (EXCLUSIVE)". Variety. Retrieved 21 December 2024.
- ^ Roxborough, Scott (6 March 2024). "StudioCanal Launches Genre Label, Jed Benedict to Run". The Hollywood Reporter. Retrieved 20 December 2024.
- ^ Ntim, Zac (6 March 2024). "StudioCanal Hires Jed Benedict To Launch In-House Genre Label". Deadline Hollywood. Retrieved 20 December 2024.
- ^ Lodderhose, Diana (6 February 2025). "Studiocanal's New Genre Label Sixth Dimension Sets First Title As Reboot Of 1984 Slasher 'Silent Night, Deadly Night'; Cineverse Releasing In North America With Sales Launching At EFM". Deadline Hollywood. Retrieved 6 February 2025.
- ^ Whittock, Jesse; Goldbart, Max (29 April 2024). "StudioCanal Launches Literary Adaptations Label". Deadline Hollywood. Retrieved 2 May 2024.
- ^ Wittock, Jesse (19 July 2024). "'Back To Black' Maker Studiocanal Opening New York Office". Deadline Hollywood. Retrieved 21 December 2024.
- ^ Batey, Neil (18 September 2024). "StudioCanal rebrands The Copyrights Group as StudioCanal Kids & Family". C21Media. Retrieved 19 September 2024.
- ^ Watson, Cole (18 September 2024). "The Copyrights Group rebrands as StudioCanal Kids & Family". Kidsreen. Retrieved 19 September 2024.
- ^ Pedersen, Lise (18 October 2024). "Studiocanal Acquires Key International Rights to '12 Years a Slave,' 'The Tree of Life' and More River Road Entertainment Titles (EXCLUSIVE)". Variety. Retrieved 20 December 2024.
- ^ Keslassy, Elsa (4 June 2025). "Studiocanal Shutters 'Happy Valley' Outfit Red Production in the U.K." Variety.
- ^ "STUDIOCANAL ANNOUNCES NEW WORLDWIDE TELEVISION DIVISION". Groupe Canal+. 9 October 2025.
- ^ "StudioCanal names senior team at new-look Worldwide Television division". C21Media. 10 October 2025.
- ^ "STUDIOCANAL ANNOUNCES THE CREATION OF ITS NEW LABEL "STUDIOCANAL STORIES"". Groupe Canal+. 29 April 2024.
- ^ "Our activities: From a French television channel to a global audiovisual group". CANAL+ Group. 7 May 2024. Retrieved 16 May 2024.
- ^ a b c Lambie, Ryan (11 March 2014). "The rise and fall of Carolco". Den of Geek. Retrieved 24 April 2015.
- ^ a b c Lambie, Ryan (26 January 2015). "Exclusive: CEO Alex Bafer Tells Us About The Return of Carolco". Den of Geek. Retrieved 24 April 2015.
- ^ a b Hammer, Joshua (8 March 1992). "Total Free Fall". Newsweek. Retrieved 24 April 2015.
- ^ Friendly, David T. (16 November 1985). "De Laurentiis Rejoins The Ranks--at Embassy". Los Angeles Times. Retrieved 24 April 2015.
- ^ Hopewell, John (20 October 2012). "Lumiere rocks to French classics". Variety. Retrieved 24 April 2015.
- ^ a b c d e f Mitchell, Wendy (17 December 2012). "Network Distributing acquires rights to 450 films from StudioCanal library". Screen Daily. Retrieved 24 April 2015.
- ^ "A.B. Pictures Acquire 50% Of Anglo Amalgamated." The Times [London, England]; April 5, 1962: 21. The Times Digital Archive.
- ^ "Associated British Picture Corporation." Sunday Times [London, England] September 3, 1967: 44. The Sunday Times Digital Archive.
- ^ a b "STUDIOCANAL". British Universities Film & Video Council.
- ^ Haflidason, Almar. "Ealing Comedy Boxset 2 DVD (1947-1953)". BBC Online. Retrieved 25 April 2015.
- ^ French, Philip (9 August 2014). "The Ealing Studios Collection Vol 1 review – Philip French on three immaculately restored Ealing classics". The Guardian. Retrieved 24 April 2015.
- ^ "STUDIOCANAL acquires the Romulus Films catalogue". StudioCanal. 6 April 2021.
- ^ "Studiocanal Inks Library Deal with Classic Horror Brand Hammer Films". 30 September 2019. Archived from the original on 30 September 2019.
- ^ "Studiocanal Acquires Library of 'The Intouchables' Producer". Variety. 1 October 2018. Retrieved 1 October 2018.
- ^ Esposito, Maria (21 August 2003). "Canal J favours local, Canuck content for autumn". C21Media.
- ^ "Comienza el rodaje de 'La Promesa', la nueva serie diaria de La 1". Deia. 28 September 2022.
- ^ Kanter, Jake (20 October 2024). "Hulu Closes U.S. Deal For StudioCanal Series Paris Has Fallen". Deadline Hollywood. Retrieved 20 November 2024.
- ^ Sharma, Dishya (10 November 2024). "Paris Has Fallen Writer Howard Overman Says They Didn't Want Show to Be 'Bleak And Too Dark'". News18.com. Retrieved 20 November 2024.
- ^ "ITV commissions psychological thriller, Playing Nice, starring James Norton, Niamh Algar, James McArdle and Jessica Brown Findlay". ITVX. 21 November 2023. Retrieved 21 November 2023.
- ^ Darvill, Josh (21 November 2023). "Playing Nice TV series to star James Norton and Niamh Algar". Tellmix. Retrieved 22 November 2023.
- ^ Lewis, George (22 November 2023). "Happy Valley's James Norton in first-look at new ITV thriller". Dogital Spy. Retrieved 23 November 2023.
- ^ Barraclough, Leo (3 October 2023). "Studiocanal, Mercis, Superprod to Produce CGI Animated Series 'Miffy'". Variety.
- ^ Whittock, Jesse (4 March 2025). "Canal+ Confirms Production On Next Installment Of 'Has Fallen' TV Series". Deadline Hollywood. Retrieved 28 March 2025.
- ^ Creamer, Jon (7 October 2025). "Studiocanal, Strong Film + TV team for Murder Most Unladylike". Televisual.
- ^ Kanter, Jake (6 October 2025). "StudioCanal Developing TV Series Based On Kids' Crime Capers 'Murder Most Unladylike'". Deadline Hollywood.
- ^ "Lionsgate, StudioCanal to distribute Miramax films". BusinessWeek. 11 February 2011.
- ^ "Lionsgate, Studiocanal and Miramax Enter Into Home Entertainment Distribution Agreements". Yahoo! Finance. 11 February 2011.[permanent dead link]
- ^ "'Terminator 2,' 'Basic Instinct' to Return to Studiocanal Distribution Portfolio as NBCUniversal Deal Ends – Global Bulletin". 13 October 2021.
External links
[edit]- Official website
- Official history (archived); current version
- List of film credits from IMDb
StudioCanal
View on GrokipediaCorporate Overview
Founding and Ownership
StudioCanal traces its origins to 1986, when it was established as Canal+ Production, the in-house film and television production unit of the newly launched French pay-TV channel Canal+, founded in 1984 by André Rousselet and Pierre Lescure. Lescure, who served as Canal+'s first president, spearheaded the creation of this division to support the channel's content needs, initially emphasizing French and European productions to complement Canal+'s programming. The entity began operations amid the rapid growth of the French audiovisual sector, leveraging Canal+'s resources to finance and produce original films and series.[10][11] In 1990, Canal+ Production was rebranded as Le Studio Canal+ to signal its broader ambitions in international production and distribution, including early partnerships with American studios like Carolco Pictures for co-productions such as Terminator 2: Judgment Day. This period marked the company's expansion beyond domestic markets, acquiring rights to significant film libraries and establishing a presence in key European territories. By 2000, following internal restructuring within the Canal+ Group, it adopted its current name, StudioCanal, reflecting a focus on global operations while retaining its European core.[12] Regarding ownership, StudioCanal has been a subsidiary of Canal+ since its inception, with the parent company providing financial backing and strategic direction. In 2000, Vivendi acquired a controlling interest in Canal+ through a major merger, integrating the group into its media empire; at that juncture, Canal+ held an 82.3% stake in StudioCanal, while Vivendi directly owned 3.1%. Over the subsequent decades, StudioCanal operated as a fully integrated unit within the Vivendi-controlled Canal+ Group, benefiting from synergies in content production and distribution across Vivendi's assets.[13][14] In December 2024, Vivendi executed a corporate restructuring by spinning off [Canal+ Group](/page/Canal+ Group) as an independent entity, approved by shareholders and resulting in its listing on the London Stock Exchange. Following the spin-off, [Canal+ Group](/page/Canal+ Group) shares were distributed to Vivendi shareholders, with Bolloré Group emerging as a significant shareholder holding approximately 30.4%. As of 2025, StudioCanal continues as a wholly owned subsidiary of the standalone [Canal+ Group](/page/Canal+ Group), enabling focused growth in film and television while maintaining its position as Europe's leading independent studio.[15][16][17][18][19]Structure and Subsidiaries
StudioCanal operates as a Société par actions simplifiée (S.A.S.), serving as the primary film and television production and distribution arm of the independent CANAL+ Group, listed on the London Stock Exchange since December 2024, with Bolloré Group as a major shareholder holding approximately 30.4%. Headquartered in Paris, France, the company functions as an integrated studio with divisions dedicated to development, financing, production, international sales, and distribution across film, television, and ancillary media. As of 2025, StudioCanal maintains a decentralized structure that supports operations in nine key European markets—France, the United Kingdom, Ireland, Germany, Austria, the Netherlands, Belgium, Luxembourg, and Poland—while extending its reach through partnerships and offices in over 100 countries worldwide. This framework enables the production of approximately 20 feature films and 15 television series annually, and the distribution of over 200 films and 21 series, backed by a library exceeding 9,400 titles.[1][20] The company's international subsidiaries include regional entities tailored to local markets, such as StudioCanal UK, which handles distribution and production in the United Kingdom and Ireland; StudioCanal GmbH, focused on German-speaking territories including Germany and Austria; and StudioCanal Australia, managing Australasian operations. These subsidiaries operate semi-autonomously, leveraging local expertise for acquisitions, releases, and co-productions while aligning with StudioCanal's global strategy. For instance, StudioCanal UK has been instrumental in distributing high-profile titles like the Paddington franchise internationally. Additionally, StudioCanal holds stakes in entities like Copyrights Group, which manages intellectual property for brands such as Paddington Bear, enhancing its merchandising and licensing capabilities. StudioCanal's production ecosystem comprises around 19 affiliated companies across Europe and the United States, emphasizing both in-house development and collaborative ventures. Key television production subsidiaries include Urban Myth Films (UK, known for The Tower series), SunnyMarch TV (UK, producers of Vigil), Birdie Pictures (UK), Bambú Producciones (Spain, specializing in premium dramas like Wrong Side of the Tracks), SAM Productions (Poland), Lailaps Films (Germany), and Dutch FilmWorks (Netherlands). In France, production labels such as 2e Bureau (drama series like The Bureau), Flab, Upside Down Pictures, Pernel Media, and Kissman Productions handle scripted content. For international formats, Tandem Communications (Germany-based) focuses on high-end TV movies and miniseries. Recent adjustments include the closure of RED Production Company in June 2025, which had produced acclaimed series like Happy Valley, and a minority equity stake in Brock Media (UK) acquired in August 2025 to bolster unscripted and factual programming.[21][1][22][23] In October 2025, StudioCanal restructured its Worldwide Television division to streamline global operations, placing it under Managing Director M-K Kennedy with dedicated regional leadership: Alix Lebrat as Senior VP for France and Southern Europe, Nicolas Loock as Senior VP for Northern Europe (including Benelux, Scandinavia, Germany, and Poland), and Paul Gilbert as Senior VP for English-Language Series (covering the UK and US). This reorganization aims to enhance support for local producers, foster cross-border collaborations, and expand U.S. and international scripted content, reflecting StudioCanal's commitment to a flexible, market-responsive structure.[6][24]Historical Development
Origins and Early Years
StudioCanal traces its roots to the launch of Canal+, France's pioneering pay-television service, which debuted on November 4, 1984, under the leadership of André Rousselet as president and Pierre Lescure as director-general.[25] This venture, initially a subsidiary of the Havas media group, aimed to provide premium content including films, sports, and original programming to a market dominated by state-controlled broadcasters.[25] To secure exclusive content and reduce reliance on expensive licensing deals with Hollywood studios, Canal+ quickly moved to develop its own production capabilities.[25] In 1986, Canal+ established its in-house production unit, initially named Canal+ Production, under the guidance of Pierre Lescure, who played a pivotal role in shaping the company's strategic direction.[10] The primary purpose was to create and co-produce films and television content tailored for the pay-TV audience, with an emphasis on French and European projects to build a proprietary library and foster local talent.[10] This initiative addressed the high costs of acquiring American films—by 1991, Canal+ was spending $100 million annually on U.S. rights alone—and positioned the company as a key player in Europe's audiovisual sector.[25] During its early years, Canal+ Production expanded beyond internal content creation into distribution, acquiring international titles for theatrical release, home video, and broadcast in France.[10] A landmark partnership formed in 1990 with U.S. producer Carolco Pictures, enabling co-financing of major Hollywood films and marking a strategic bridge between European and American markets.[10] Notable early successes included co-productions such as Terminator 2: Judgment Day (1991) and Basic Instinct (1992), which not only boosted Canal+'s programming slate but also generated significant revenue through international sales.[25] By the early 1990s, the unit had evolved into Le Studio Canal+, formalizing its role with a $200 million capital injection to support further ambitious projects.[25]Growth and Acquisitions
StudioCanal's growth has been driven by a deliberate strategy of international expansion, focusing on acquiring established distributors and production companies to bolster its presence in key markets and diversify into television and family entertainment. Beginning in the mid-2000s, the company shifted from its French-centric operations to building a pan-European network, leveraging the backing of parent company Canal+ Group to finance deals that enhanced its distribution capabilities and content library. This approach not only increased territorial reach but also allowed StudioCanal to integrate local expertise while centralizing global sales and financing. By 2025, these efforts had positioned it as Europe's largest independent film and TV studio, operating in nine European countries, Australia, New Zealand, and with offices in the US and China.[1] A pivotal early acquisition occurred in 2006 when StudioCanal purchased Optimum Releasing, one of the UK's leading independent film distributors, for an estimated £22-25 million, marking its first major foray outside France. This deal provided access to the British market and Optimum's slate of acclaimed releases, including films like This Is England. Two years later, in 2008, StudioCanal acquired German distributor Kinowelt for approximately €90 million ($132 million), gaining a strong foothold in the lucrative German-speaking territories and adding Kinowelt's extensive catalogue of over 1,000 titles. These moves were followed by the 2012 acquisition of Hoyts Distribution in Australia and New Zealand, which included a 120-title library featuring franchises like Saw and Twilight, enabling StudioCanal to enter the Asia-Pacific region and plan local co-productions.[26][27][28] The 2010s saw StudioCanal deepen its television ambitions through targeted buys. In 2012, it took a majority stake in Tandem Communications, a German TV producer known for international hits like Crossing Lines. This was complemented in 2013 by acquiring a majority stake in UK-based Red Production Company, valued at around £30 million, which brought acclaimed series such as Happy Valley and Last Tango in Halifax into its fold. A landmark deal came in 2016 with the acquisition of The Copyrights Group and the intellectual property rights to Paddington Bear, enhancing StudioCanal's family entertainment portfolio and leading to the successful Paddington film franchise. More recently, in 2022, StudioCanal secured a majority stake in Dutch FilmWorks, a prominent Benelux producer and distributor, to strengthen its Northern European operations and access local content like Dutch-language films.[29][30][31][32] These acquisitions have significantly scaled StudioCanal's operations, growing its catalogue to over 9,400 titles from 60 countries—the largest in Europe—and enabling annual financing, production, and distribution of around 200 films and 15 series. The company has also invested €25 million over seven years in 4K restorations of nearly 1,000 classic films, preserving its library while boosting revenue through modern platforms. This expansion strategy has emphasized co-productions and international partnerships, reducing reliance on the French market and positioning StudioCanal for global growth, including recent initiatives in Africa via MultiChoice collaborations.[1][33][34]Modern Era and Recent Initiatives
In the 2010s, StudioCanal pursued an aggressive expansion strategy to solidify its position as a pan-European powerhouse in film and television production and distribution, moving beyond its French roots to establish a broader international footprint. Key moves included the 2012 acquisition of a majority stake in German television producer Tandem Communications, which enhanced StudioCanal's capabilities in high-end TV drama and miniseries production for global markets.[35] That same year, the company acquired Hoyts Distribution, a leading independent film distributor in Australia and New Zealand, marking its entry into the Asia-Pacific region and bolstering theatrical and home entertainment reach.[28] By 2013, StudioCanal further strengthened its UK presence with a majority stake in Red Production Company, known for acclaimed series like Happy Valley and It's a Sin, enabling deeper integration into the British television ecosystem.[36] These acquisitions reflected a deliberate shift toward diversified content pipelines, with StudioCanal investing in local production arms across Europe while leveraging its vast library of over 9,400 titles for cross-border licensing and co-productions.[3] The mid-2010s saw continued growth through strategic IP investments and partnerships, exemplified by the 2016 acquisition of the Paddington Bear brand and related merchandising rights from Paddington and Company and the Copyrights Group, which fueled the successful Paddington film franchise and plans for sequels.[37] StudioCanal also took minority stakes in several UK and international production outfits, including SunnyMarch (co-founded by Benedict Cumberbatch), Bambú Producciones in Spain, and Urban Myth Films in New Zealand, to foster original scripted content for streaming and broadcast platforms.[38] This period aligned with broader industry shifts toward serialized television and franchise development, as StudioCanal expanded distribution deals, such as the 2017 multi-year pact with Lionsgate for U.S. theatrical releases of select titles including Aardman animations.[39] By the end of the decade, these efforts had transformed StudioCanal into Europe's largest independent studio, operating in nine major markets with a focus on premium content that balanced local appeal and global scalability.[3] Entering the 2020s, StudioCanal emphasized consolidation and innovation amid streaming dominance and post-pandemic recovery, with notable initiatives in acquisitions, library stewardship, and television restructuring. In 2022, the company acquired a majority stake in Dutch FilmWorks, a prominent Benelux production and distribution firm, to deepen its Northern European operations and access localized content for international sales.[32] Recent partnerships include the 2024 global distribution agreement with U.S. producer River Road Entertainment for 11 titles, encompassing films like There Will Be Blood, enhancing StudioCanal's prestige catalog and AVOD/SVOD revenue streams.[40] In August 2025, StudioCanal took a minority equity stake in UK-based Brock Media (home to The Outrun producers), forging a collaboration to co-develop and distribute original films and series, thereby reinforcing its UK indie production ecosystem.[23] A core recent initiative has been the revitalization of StudioCanal's classic film library through preservation and restoration efforts, led by CEO Anna Marsh, who in 2024 outlined a strategy to digitize and re-release iconic titles like Jean-Pierre Melville's works, ensuring cultural relevance via 4K remasters and educational partnerships.[33] On the television front, 2025 brought significant reorganization: the shuttering of Red Production Company after 12 years of ownership, redirecting resources toward centralized global operations, followed by the launch of a new Worldwide Television division under Managing Director M-K Kennedy.[41][22] This unit, announced at MIPCOM 2025, focuses on high-concept international series, with early projects like Apollo Has Fallen and appointments such as Paul Gilbert as SVP English-Language Series, leading UK/US premium series, to drive co-productions with platforms like Netflix and Canal+.[6] These moves underscore StudioCanal's pivot to agile, data-driven content strategies, including the 2024 appointment of Isabelle Pain as Head of Global Acquisitions & Analytics to optimize multi-territory deals.[42] In November 2025, Anna Marsh was appointed Chief Content Officer of the Canal+ Group, overseeing broader content strategies while continuing to guide StudioCanal's growth.[43] Overall, under Canal+ Group ownership, StudioCanal continues to prioritize sustainable growth, with ambitions for further franchise expansions like Paddington and investments in African markets via parent company synergies.[34]Content Library
Film Catalog
StudioCanal maintains one of the world's most extensive film libraries, encompassing over 9,400 titles originating from more than 60 countries and spanning more than a century of cinematic history. This collection positions it as the holder of the largest catalog of European films globally, with a focus on prestigious international productions across genres such as drama, thriller, comedy, animation, and action. The library's depth includes both classic masterpieces and contemporary blockbusters, supporting distribution in theatrical, home entertainment, and digital formats across multiple territories.[1] The catalog includes significant international rights from PolyGram's pre-1998 library outside North America, acquired following Vivendi's 2000 purchase of Seagram (which owned PolyGram), including titles like The Usual Suspects (1995) and Four Weddings and a Funeral (1994). Subsequent growth has relied on targeted acquisitions of production company libraries and distribution rights, enhancing its holdings in British, French, and German cinema. For instance, the 2006 acquisition of UK distributor Optimum Releasing integrated over 300 titles, bolstering its British film portfolio with arthouse and mainstream releases such as David Lynch's Mulholland Drive (2001).[3][44] Major expansions include the 2018 purchase of Quad Productions' library, which added 25 French films, prominently featuring the global hit The Intouchables (2011), a comedy-drama that grossed over €350 million worldwide. In 2021, StudioCanal acquired global sales and distribution rights to the Romulus Films catalog, comprising more than 40 British classics from the 1940s to 1960s, including John Huston's The African Queen (1951) and John Huston's Moulin Rouge (1952). More recently, the 2024 deal with Nord-Ouest Films incorporated 16 French feature films, highlighted by César Award winners like The Wolberg Family (2009), strengthening its contemporary French holdings. These acquisitions underscore StudioCanal's strategy of consolidating European heritage cinema while securing evergreen revenue from high-profile titles.[44][45][46] Beyond acquisitions, the catalog features internally produced franchises that have become library staples, such as the Paddington series (starting 2014), which has generated over $500 million in box office earnings, and animated works like Shaun the Sheep Movie (2015). It also holds European rights to select Hollywood imports, including Carolco Pictures titles like Terminator 2: Judgment Day (1991) in non-U.S. markets. The library's diversity is evident in its genre balance: thrillers like The Wicker Man (1973), romantic comedies such as Bridget Jones's Diary (2001), and international arthouse films including Luis Buñuel's The Discreet Charm of the Bourgeoisie (1972).[47][48] To preserve and modernize its holdings, StudioCanal has invested nearly €25 million over the past seven years in 4K restorations of approximately 1,000 classic features, ensuring accessibility for new audiences via streaming and physical media. This effort targets iconic European directors like Jean-Pierre Melville, with restored editions of films such as Le Samouraï (1967), enhancing the catalog's cultural and commercial value. Overall, the film library serves as a cornerstone of StudioCanal's operations, generating licensing revenue and supporting global content strategies.[1][33]Television Holdings
StudioCanal maintains a significant presence in television through ownership stakes and partnerships in multiple production companies, primarily focused on scripted content across Europe and the United States. As part of the CANAL+ Group, the studio produces over 15 series annually, encompassing local adaptations, international co-productions, and CANAL+ Originals, with a library exceeding 2,000 hours of current and archival television content.[1] These holdings enable StudioCanal to finance, produce, and distribute a diverse slate of drama, thriller, and family-oriented series, often in collaboration with platforms like Netflix, Canal+, and Apple TV+.[2] Key television holdings include majority or minority stakes in 19 production entities, with a strategic emphasis on the UK, France, Spain, Germany, and emerging US operations. In the UK, StudioCanal acquired a majority stake in RED Production Company in 2013, valuing the Manchester-based producer at approximately £30 million; however, RED was closed by StudioCanal in June 2025 amid a restructuring of its UK operations.[36][41] Other notable UK holdings encompass a 20% stake in SunnyMarch TV, founded by Benedict Cumberbatch in 2013, which focuses on high-end drama and has developed projects like the film adaptation The War Magician; a 20% stake in Urban Myth Films (acquired in 2016), known for fantasy series such as Atlantis and The Librarians; and a recent minority stake in Brock Media (announced in August 2025), led by producer Sarah Brocklehurst, to bolster genre and action content.[49][38][50] In Spain, StudioCanal holds a 33% stake in Bambú Producciones, established in 2007, which has pioneered streaming content in the region, including the first Netflix original fiction and docuseries produced in Spain, as well as series for Apple TV+ and Movistar+.[51] French holdings feature entities like 2e Bureau, Flab, Kissman, Pernel, Upside, and Grands Ducs Films, supporting Canal+ Originals such as Paris Police 1900 and 1905.[1] In Germany, Lailaps Films and STUDIOCANAL Series handle local productions, while SAM Productions in Denmark (with a reported 25% stake) contributes to Nordic co-productions.[1] Expanding internationally, StudioCanal acquired a minority stake in The Picture Company in 2023, a US-based genre producer behind films and series like Barbarian, alongside a five-year overall deal for development and distribution.[52] These holdings have yielded prominent series, including War of the Worlds (seasons 1-3, 2019-2022, co-produced with Urban Myth), ZeroZeroZero (2020, international adaptation), Django (2022, French-Italian co-production), and animated family content like The Adventures of Paddington (seasons 1-3, 2019-2023).[53] Upcoming projects under these banners include The Embers and A Better Place (both slated for 2025). In October 2025, StudioCanal reorganized its Worldwide Television division under managing director M-K Kennedy to enhance global distribution of its scripted slate, aligning with CANAL+'s broader content strategy.[6]| Production Company | Location | Ownership Stake | Notable TV Productions |
|---|---|---|---|
| RED Production Company | UK | Majority (acquired 2013; closed 2025) | Years and Years (2019), The Stranger (2019), Ridley Road (2021)[54][30] |
| SunnyMarch TV | UK | 20% (acquired 2016) | The War Magician (in development), various drama pilots[38] |
| Urban Myth Films | UK | 20% (acquired 2016) | Atlantis (2013-2015), The Librarians (2014-2018)[49] |
| Bambú Producciones | Spain | 33% (acquired 2016) | Instinto (2019), The Vow (2023), first Spanish Netflix series[55][51] |
| The Picture Company | US | Minority (acquired 2023) | Barbarian (series adaptation in development)[52] |
| Lailaps Films | Germany | Majority/Subsidiary | Local German series and co-productions[1] |
