M ontreal-based distributor VVS Films is expanding operations to Australia and New Zealand.

Having operated for more than 40 years in Canada, the company is backing the international expansion with a major investment in film content for distribution in the Australia and New Zealand region. The new operations will launch A24’s Dream Scenario (pictured), starring Nicolas Cage, which was a breakout at the Toronto International Film Festival (TIFF) and will be released in the region theatrically on Jan. 1, 2024.

Leading the expansion is newly appointed executive director Brett Rosengarten, with Sinclair Brook serving as director of sales. Rosengarten is based in Melbourne and will be responsible for overseeing distribution activities, with Brook tasked with theatrical and digital release strategies across both territories.

Rosengarten brings 28 years of sales experience in major and independent distribution to his new role, and currently serves as CEO of Independent Cinemas Australia, a position he will keep alongside his duties at VVS. Brook, meanwhile, spent the past 10 years at Roadshow Films, most recently as senior sales manager. Both will report to VVS Films EVP Javi Hernandez and SVP Harry Grivakis.

VVS announced a strategic move last year to work with more Canadian talent. The company has primarily distributed larger commercial and franchise titles in Canada, including the recent horror hit Talk To Me, the Has Fallen and Hitman’s Bodyguard franchises, as well as arthouse films like The Lighthouse, I, Tonya and Hell or High Water. It’s also handling distribution for Canadian film The King Tide (Woods Entertainment, Sara Fost Pictures), which was part of the Platform program at TIFF last month.

Image courtesy of VVS Films