Jeff Sackman, former president of Lions Gate Films, is back in the movie business. After several months in contented retirement, 40-year-old Sackman has started ThinkFilm, an independent film company that will be based in Toronto, with offices in New York.
"There seem to be fewer homes than ever for original and exciting independent films," he said in a prepared statement. "We intend to remedy that situation."
Sackman will be president and chief executive officer of the new venture, and Mark Urman will head ThinkFilm's U.S. theatrical distribution division. Andy Myers will captain Canadian distribution.
In an interview, Sackman said the company would concentrate on distribution, including "straight to video or straight to television," but would look at other opportunities as well, including executive producing.
Last month, Sackman paid seven figures to acquire Canadian distribution rights to about 40 titles, including such successes as Crouching Tiger, Hidden Dragon; You Can Count on Me; Pollock and All About My Mother, from bankrupt Blackwatch releasing.
Financing for the Blackwatch deal, as well as ThinkFilm's operating capital, have come entirely from private investment sources.