Pelman to exit Alliance Films

TORONTO -- Kaira Pelman is going to be departing Alliance Films for brand new business possibilities, the Canada-based multinational distributor and production company introduced Thursday. Pelman have been helping oversee the integration of Walnut Pictures, which Alliance purchased from Lionsgate Entertainment for $38.5 million in August. Pelman released Walnut in 2005 with co-prexy Laurie May. Both gone to live in Alliance and could will stay at the organization. The Walnut purchase, which saw some lay-offs, transformed the dynamic from the Canadian indie distribution landscape, now centered by multinational rivals Entertainment One and Alliance. With eOne exploring purchase options and Alliance stakeholders Goldman Sachs and Investissement Quebec putting their shares on the market this month, the Canuck picture will change once again. Inside a statement launched Thursday, Pelman stated he'll maintain "an expert association" with Alliance. "Kaira Pelman is really a consummate professional whose leadership and experience made the transition of Walnut Pictures into Alliance appear easy," stated Alliance Boss Victor Loewy. "You want him ongoing success, we're grateful for his commitment, and anticipate working together with him again later on." Contact the range newsroom at news@variety.com