Michael

London, 6th March, 2008: Vertigo Films announced today that it has signed a deal with Contender Home Entertainment to handle DVD distribution for its forthcoming theatrical releases.

The deal covers the DVD releases of Vertigo Films' up coming slate of 9 pictures produced or acquired that they release theatrically. The first release that the two companies partner on will be their current highly acclaimed serial killer thriller WΔZ, starring Stellan Skarsgård, Ashley Walters, Melissa George and Selma Blair.

Other titles covered under the agreement are Rupert Wyatt's highly acclaimed prison thriller THE ESCAPIST, the stylish U.S. indie rom-com IN SEARCH OF A MIDNIGHT KISS, the co-production with MySpace and the UK's first user-generated film FAINTHEART. Also included will be the debut feature from Sundance-winning* director Simon Ellis DOGGING: A LOVE STORY, SHOTGUN STORIES from first time Director Jeff Nichols, Kenny Glenaan's SUMMER, Tom Shankland's THE DAY, and Nicolas Winding Refn's BRONSON that details the life of Britain's most notorious prisoner, Charles Bronson.

The deal was negotiated between Vertigo Films' Producer and Head of Distribution, Rupert Preston, and Director, Contender Home Entertainment, Jon Bourdillon. DVD marketing will be overseen by Head of Marketing for Contender Home Entertainment, Matt Brightwell.

Commenting on the deal, Vertigo's Rupert Preston said: "I'm thrilled that Contender Home Entertainment will handle the distribution of Vertigo Films DVD releases. The team share the same passion and vision for film marketing which will lead to stand out campaigns and significant DVD sales."

Contender's Jon Bourdillon follows: "We are very pleased that Vertigo Films have chosen Contender Home Entertainment as their home entertainment partner. Their decision reflects well on the Contender Sales & Marketing team."

Adds Contender's Matt Brightwell: "We are extremely pleased to have the opportunity to work with Vertigo Films on such a diverse slate of titles, all of which have fantastic DVD potential, and we look forward to realising that potential and making a real impact on the DVD market."