Independent DVD producer and distributor Image Entertainment has purchased Home Vision Entertainment, a fellow independent DVD supplier known for the Criterion Collection line, in an $8 million deal.
Home Vision has a catalog of more than 130 titles, mostly foreign and independent films. Its Criterion line of special edition DVDs, which includes recent titles such as “The Life Aquatic with Steve Zissou,” contains about 280 projects.
The Chatsworth, Calif.-based Image had a 50% stake in distribution for the Criterion line for the past eight years, and now takes on full distribution rights.
It is believed that Home Vision’s Chicago offices will close by the end of the year and that most of the company’s 45 employees will be let go.
Adrianne Furniss, president/CEO of Home Vision, will work as an Image consultant for three years. Image will release titles under the Home Vision name going forward.
