Universal Music Group (UMG) is relaunching Polygram Entertainment in an effort to boost its film and television strategy, the company announced Saturday (Feb. 11). Polygram’s first production will be The Story of Motown, a documentary about historical and cultural impact of the iconic record label.
In addition to The Story of Motown, Polygram will also develop and produce feature films and television, including scripted and unscripted productions, as well as financing documentaries. The company is currently financing and co-producing Mystify, a film that follows the life of INXS frontman Michael Hutchence. Last September, Polygram and Studio Canal co-distributed the Ron Howard-directed film The Beatles: Eight Days a Week – The Touring Years.
Polygram is led by UMG’s head of film & television development and production David Blackman. He reports to UMG executive VP Michele Anthony and Universal Music Publishing Group chairman/CEO Jody Gerson.