Lionsgate forms content distribution partnerships in Greater China

Chinese internet firm Sohu's online video platform formed a strategic cooperation agreement with Hollywood production studio Lionsgate to obtain broadcasting rights in mainland China for 300 copyrighted items of content including feature films and TV dramas Mad Men and Weeds.

The tie-up is part of Sohu Video's move to compete with rivals such as Youku, Tudou, Qiyi, Tencent Video, and follows the purchase of more than 400 films over the next three years from 20th Century Fox.

Separately, movie distributor Celestial Pictures and private investment firm Saban Capital have created an independent media company with Lionsgate. Called Celestial Tiger Entertainment (CTE) to be headquartered in Hong Kong, the alliance will focus on offering branded pay TV channels like Celestial Classic Movies, KIX, and Thrill.

CTE will also be the exclusive sales agent for all of Lionsgate's content in China and Southeast Asia, while producing original content complementing its channel distribution business.