'Destiny's' new distribution deal tied to Universal Music Group
Published:Sunday | November 16, 2014 | 12:00 AM
Shereita Grizzle, Gleaner Writer
Although the movie Destiny had its official big-screen debut just last month, the film has been making huge strides in the film industry. Just recently, Palace Amusement Cinema revealed that the film had been number one at box offices across the island, outselling huge Hollywood productions. Now, with news of a major distribution deal, it seems Destiny's streak of good fortune won't be ending anytime soon.
Tuff Gong International has acquired the global distribution rights for the movie's soundtrack. The company is the region's exclusive licensee for international recording companies Warner Music Group, Disney Music Group, and Universal Music Group. This means that the movie's official soundtrack will be released internationally on the Tuff Gong label, as part of the deal with Caroline Music, a division of Universal Music Group. The soundtrack was produced by Destiny's producer and director, Jeremy Whittaker, CEO of Grasshopper Music Entertainment, with legendary music producer Clive Hunt and Dwain 'Wiya' Campbell as co-producers. It includes 10 tracks from different local entertainers, including Tifa, Spice, Christopher Martin, Karian Sang and Garnett Silk Jr. Some of the artistes on the official soundtrack also star in the film.
NATURAL FIT
In a statement released to The Sunday Gleaner, Tuff Gong's international label manager, Myshjua Archibald, described the movie's soundtrack as a natural fit for the company's brand and catalogue. "The Hon Robert Nesta Marley, our founder, always intended that Tuff Gong be an outlet for the tremendous independent talent in Jamaica and the Destiny release continues that legacy, and is also indicative of what the company is doing today." CEO of the Marley Group, Cedella Marley, also weighed in on the partnership, saying, "Tuff Gong is proud to be a part of another milestone in Jamaican entertainment. With this authentic Jamaican production, Jeremy is sharing a slice of Jamaican life," she said. "Destiny has ruled the local box office and will no doubt attract a global following, and we look forward to a successful partnership."
The distribution deal is not the only major news regarding the film. Fans who have been asking about a DVD release may not have long to wait, as plans surrounding that issue have now been finalised. According to Whittaker, the film is to be released on DVD in North America at all Wal-Mart locations, with propositions to extend it to other countries currently under consideration. Destiny is also expected to debut in London and other areas across the region during the Christmas season, while countries in Europe should be able to view the film in the new year.