Salma Hayek
Lionsgate, which has enjoyed great successes through its Pantelion Films label, has just pacted with Salma Hayek Pinault who will produce both English and Spanish-language feature films. The first-look deal between Hayek and producing partner Jose “Pepe” Tamez and Lionsgate calls for the duo to produce feature films for Lionsgate under Hayek Pinaults Ventanarosa Productions banner that will feed Lionsgate proper and they will explore projects with Pantelion Films.
Hayek Pinault produced the double Academy Award-winning Frida, which also earned the actress a best actress nominations. She also produced the Emmy-nominated Ugly Betty.
Lionsgate and Hayek Pinault are currently developing features for Ventanrosa to produce and in which Hayek Pinault will star. Hayek and Lionsgate found success together previously with Pantelion Films breakout success, How to Be a Latin Lover from Eugenio Derbez.
“Im very grateful to begin this new phase of my partnership with Lionsgate,” said Hayek Pinault in making the announcement. “They have built a tremendous rapport with mainstream and underserved audiences alike and their willingness to push the envelope with films that reflect a bold and authentic creative vision fills me with great excitement. I couldnt have found a better home. I look forward to the adventure of working with a team that makes me feel heard and respected and that celebrates diversity and the female point of view.”
Hayek Pinault has also starred in top Hollywood films across all genres from action to arthouse and comedy, including Grown Ups, Desperado, Tale of Tales, Savages and most recently the wonderful Mike White scripted Beatriz at Dinner for which she earned an Independent Spirit Award nomination.
“Salma is an artist with a distinct and powerful voice whose projects resonate with audiences around the world, and were thrilled to partner with her and Jose on films that reflect their unique creative vision” said Lionsgate Motion Picture Group Co-Chair Joe Drake.
Pantelion Films CEO Paul Presburger added that Hayek Pinault “is a major superstar who has shown that great film and television properties transcend language and cultural boundaries. Pantelions priority is to super-serve the growing Spanish-language and bilingual market with premium, enjoyable and relatable content. We look forward to partnering with Salma and Pepe on exciting new projects for our future slate.”
Tamez is the president at Ventanarosa Productions and worked with Hayek Pinault on Ugly Betty. He also produced Annie Award Best Picture nominee The Prophet and most recently the Miguel Arteta-diirected Beatriz at Dinner in which the actress starred.
The deal was negotiated for Lionsgate by Motion Picture Group SVP business and legal affairs Phil Strina.
Hayek Pinault is repped by CAA, Management 360 and Bill Sobel at Edelstein, Laird & Sobel.
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