Amazon.com, Inc. (NASDAQ:AMZN) revealed on Wednesday that it is working on its first original movie project that will be directed by Spike Lee.
The company is taking a leaf from the books of its competitor, Netflix, Inc. (NASDAQ:NFLX) by creating its own content. The film is called ‘Chi-raq.’ It was written and directed by Lee, and its main take is the rampant violent that exists within the confines of Chicago. The e-commerce giant claims that the movie will be available in Cinemas, as well as the online platforms once it is launched.
Judging by the cast, it has the makings of a promising film. Amazon has not spared any expenses to make the film. World-class actors and actresses such as Samuel L. Jackson, Jennifer Hudson and Wesley Snipes are in the movie. The company announced that the filming has already been completed, but it did not reveal the exact dates for launching the film. Amazon’s head of marketing and distribution.
Bob Berney added that the e-commerce giant will collaborate with one of the popular theatrical distributors in the film industry to bring the film to cinemas. The movie will also be aired on Amazon Prime a few months after the theatrical release. This is in line with the company’s statement earlier in the year that its movies will be available on its streaming service. Amazon has been successful with its original series production such as “Transparent”, which won a Golden Globe award. The company also has an original Woody Allen series. Clearly Amazon is swimming with the top acting cream.
The goal is to extend the success that it has acquired in the series department and bring it into the film industry. Amazon launched the movie division as part of its plan to make or acquire original series. It was also part of its competitive strategy against heavy hitters like Netflix. A few months ago, Jay Marine, VP of the European division of Amazon.com, Inc. (NASDAQ:AMZN) Instant Video announced plans to boost its original programming.
