EXCLUSIVE: Capstone Studios, Signature Entertainment, and Ascending Media Group are launching full-service U.S. distribution company Aura Entertainment, which will focus on commercially-oriented features for theatrical and digital release.
The company will release approximately 10 to 15 titles per year, combining strategic acquisitions with select projects produced by its backers. The company will include an in-house marketing and promotional team, largely made up of existing staffers from the companies. Aura will also offer global sales and financing options.
The company has already amassed a slate of 14 films, which will become clear in coming months. Seven films are slated for release in 2025 and additional acquisitions will be made in Cannes at next week’s market.
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While continuing to lead their respective companies, Signature’s Marc Goldberg, Capstone’s Christian Mercuri, and Ascending Media’s Jared Goetz will operate Aura as an independent company.
“There is a significant opportunity in today’s U.S. marketplace to elevate mid-budget, audience-driven films through comprehensive, thoughtfully executed campaigns,” said Marc Goldberg, Aura and Signature CEO.
He continued: “As traditional distribution models have contracted, many commercially appealing films are struggling to find the right formula for a successful release. These films often require stronger marketing, deeper audience engagement, and more strategic nurturing to reach their full potential. Aura is committed to filling this gap, bringing a full-service approach to maximize each film’s potential.”
“We’re incredibly excited by the slate of bold, distinctive films we’ll be bringing to audiences soon,” added Christian Mercuri, CEO of Capstone. “There is a wealth of fresh, commercially viable projects that, with the right backing, have the potential to make a real impact. With Aura’s in-house marketing and promotional expertise, we’re able to craft high-impact campaigns that give these films the visibility and support they deserve.”
“With our deep relationships across theatrical, transactional, and especially streaming platforms, Aura is uniquely positioned to navigate today’s shifting distribution landscape and tailor each project’s release strategy for maximum impact and downstream success,” commented Jared Goetz, CEO of Ascending Media.
Sales, finance and production outfit Capstone has sold movies including Breathe, Fall and its upcoming sequel Fall 2. Founder Mercuri has produced on movies including Fall, Kandahar, Silent Night and the upcoming Fall 2.
Ascending Media is the U.S. distribution and consultancy firm run by former Lionsgate and Disney exec Jared Goetz who previously served as President of Lionsgate’s domestic TV operation.
Long-running distribution and sales firm Signature has specialised in UK distribution, though in recent years founder Goldberg relocated to the U.S. to work as a producer. Upcoming projects include Dave Bautista starrer Trap House. In response to the challenged UK landscape, Signature has recently trimmed its theatrical staffing out of the UK but will continue to focus on home ent in the territory.