PolyGram Filmed Entertainment (PFE) is setting up its own distribution operation in Europe's largest film market, Germany.

It will operate from January 1997, under newly-appointed managing director Haig Balian. "We will think and act like an indie but have the power of a major," said Balian, who will be based in Hamburg.

Balian, now joint managing director of PFE Benelux, will be in charge of all PolyGram's theatrical, video and TV activities in Germany. Balian entered the industry in 1975, succeeding his father at Dutch distributor Meteor Film.

Together with business partner Chris Brouwer, with whom he set up Meteor Film Productions, he turned the company into one of Benelux's most successful integrated production and distribution operations.

PolyGram acquired Meteor in 1993.

"With Haig's appointment we have a film marketing expert who will enjoy a large degree of autonomy which will allow him to work closely and effectively with German exhibitors," said PFE president of international Stewart Till. PFE currently does not produce any movies in Germany but according to Balian this will probably change in the future.

The first film to be distributed by the new outfit will be Sleepers, starring Robert De Niro, Dustin Hoffman and Brad Pitt, due for release on 16 January 1997. Other films include Dr Bean with Rowan Atkinson and The Game starring Michael Douglas.

Germany is the latest territory in which PolyGram has its own distribution set-up, following the UK, the US, France, Benelux, Spain and Australia/New Zealand.

Nick Thomas

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