Sony Pictures enters partnership with Pakistani streaming service Begin
What's the story
Sony Pictures Entertainment has inked a one-year contract with Begin, a Pakistani streaming service, Variety reported. The deal, facilitated by venture accelerator Z2C Limited, encompasses both exclusive and shared rights to an array of library titles tailored for the Pakistani audience. This agreement includes popular TV shows such as The Goldbergs, Damages, The Big C, Preacher, Sneaky Pete, Men in Black, and Jackie Chan Adventures.
Licensing deal
Begin to acquire licensing rights from SPE's film library
In addition to TV shows, Begin will also gain licensing rights to a selection of titles from SPE's extensive film library. The streaming service already holds live sports agreements with the Professional Golfers Association, Saudi Premier League, and All Elite Wrestling. The projected revenue in the Pakistan SVOD market is estimated to reach $353M in 2024, according to data by Statista.
Positive outlook
Executives expressed enthusiasm over Sony-Begin partnership
Jonathan Mark, Chief Commercial Officer at Begin, expressed his excitement about the collaboration with Sony Pictures. "This not only allows us to bring their impressive slate of beloved film franchises to Begin in the Pakistan market, but it also establishes a new source of first-run films for Begin movie lovers." Echoing Mark's sentiments, Sonika Basin, VP of International Distribution for South Asia at SPE, also expressed her thrill over this partnership with Begin.