Universal makes distribution pact with Cross Creek

Universal Pictures has made a three year distribution deal with Cross Creek Pictures.Over the three years, U will distribute six films to be funded by Cross Creek. First title up is the Ron Howard-helmed "Rush" starring Chris Hemsworth.Cross Creek's recent credits include "Black Swan" and Sony's "The Ides of March."The studio and Cross Creek are also looking through Universal's current development slate for potential projects that the shingle could produce and finance.The joint announcement, made Wednesday, disclosed that Cross Creek could come on to produce and finance Universal's "The Creed of Violence," with Todd Field attached to direct from his own script.The companies said the budget range for Cross Creek titles will fall between $15 million and $65 million, with an average cost of $25 million to $35 million. Cross Creek has partnered with Exclusive Media Group on "Rush," "Ides of March" and "Woman in Black." Cross Creek and Exclusive co-financed and co-produced "Rush" and "Ides" and Cross Creek acquired US rights to "Woman in Black," then sold those to CBS Films. Contact Justin Kroll at justin.kroll@variety.com

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