Los Angeles - Filmaka on Monday announced the launch of its new digital entertainment studio, which will fund feature films, documentaries, Web series and other content culled from a network of amateur filmmakers.

The Los Angeles-based company was co-founded by producer Deepak Nayar ("Bend it Like Beckham," "Buena Vista Social Club") and former Fox TV Entertainment Group chairman Sandy Grushow.

The company will host contests for aspiring filmmakers, with both cash and development deal prizes, to be judged by a panel that includes Colin Firth, Werner Herzog, Neil LaBute, Zak Penn and Wim Wenders.

Filmaka claims to have already attracted a community of more than 3,600 filmmakers during a year-long beta test that saw the creation of more than 80 hours of content; additionally, over 40 Web series are in production with filmmakers in ten countries.

The company has already been enlisted by FX and SAB Miller to create content for traditional and digital media and integrated marketing campaigns, and has penned revenue-sharing agreements with distribution partners YouTube, Vuze and PlayTV UK.

"The need for high-quality, low cost content for new and traditional distribution platforms has never been greater," said co-founder Deepak Nayar.

"Through Filmaka's unique and innovative competition engine, we continue to discover talent from around the world that is capable of servicing the needs of the marketplace in an extraordinarily efficient and effective way."

Related Links:
http://snipurl.com/256mi

http://www.filmaka.com

http://www.youtube.com/user/filmaka