Yellow Bird's 'Millennium' Films Sold To Italy

Producer Yellow Bird's productions of Stieg Larsson's three books in the 'Millennium' series are now conquering Europe as distributor Zodiak International has closed a major deal with Italy's top film distributor BIM Distribuzione.
Yellow Bird is producing six TV films based on the entire 'Millennium' trilogy, as well as a feature film based on the first book, 'The Girl with the Dragon Tattoo'.
BIM has acquired the cinematic, TV and DVD rights to distribute both the TV films and the feature film in Italy and Italian speaking territories, with the cinematic release expected next year.
Based in Rome, BIM specialises in the distribution of international art house films and productions from independent directors, previously handling renowned titles such as 'The Motorcycle Diaries', 'Brokeback Mountain' and 'Fareheit 9/11'.
Mikael Wallen, CEO of Yellow Bird, said: "It is incredibly rewarding to produce something as popular as 'Millennium'. The interest is huge, both in Sweden and internationally, and I am sure this deal with BIM will be the first of many global sales."
Jorg Roth, MD of Zodiak International, said: "The deal with BIM is an important step for Zodiak International and puts us well on the way to establishing ourselves as an international distributor of drama. We are now building a drama portfolio with huge sales potential with shows like 'Millennium' and other titles like Yellow Bird's 'Wallander' films for the BBC."
Currently, Zodiak International is in negotiations with several other countries over the 'Millennium' films. Meanwhile, Yellow Bird is shooting two TV films based on the second book in the 'Millennium' trilogy, 'The Girl Who Played With Fire'.
In Sweden and Denmark, 'The Girl with the Dragon Tattoo' premieres in cinemas during February 2009.
(KMcA/JM)