News

ELLIS RELEASING ANNOUNCES WORLDWIDE LAUNCH OF
'OPUS DEI AND THE DA VINCI CODE', A GROUND-BREAKING NEW FILM FROM BRITAIN'S AWARD WINNING CTVC


Exclusive access featured in new production examining the fact and fiction surrounding the religious organization at the center of the recent best-selling novel

TORONTO, September 12, 2005 - Ellis Releasing, the global distribution subsidiary of Ellis Entertainment, has secured the international distribution rights to the highly-anticipated new documentary 'Opus Dei and The Da Vinci Code', available simultaneously with its première on Channel 4 in the U.K. scheduled for 19 December 2005. The announcement was made jointly today by Stephen Ellis, President of Ellis Entertainment and Nick Stuart, Chief Executive Officer of the production house, CTVC.

In 'Opus Dei and The Da Vinci Code' British journalist and writer, Mark Dowd, investigates the criticisms and goes inside the Opus Dei organization to distinguish fact from fiction. Opus Dei operatives were cast as villains in Dan Brown's best selling thriller novel "The Da Vinci Code" and for decades the organization has been the subject of controversy inside and outside the Catholic Church.

Said Mr. Ellis, "We're very pleased to be making such a timely and thought-provoking documentary available to the world market. 'Opus Dei and The Da Vinci Code' responds to the public's demand for more information, and illuminates a controversial subject, handled with editorial balance by CTVC, one of the world's pre-eminent producers of faith-oriented programming."

In 'Opus Dei and The Da Vinci Code', Mr. Dowd visits Opus Dei's facilities in New York, Washington D.C., Chicago, London and Rome, with unparalleled access and cooperation from Opus Dei. He explores thorny issues and rumors, carefully examining one of the most controversial religious organizations today, giving both members of Opus Dei and some of their most outspoken critics an opportunity to be heard

"We are very proud of 'Opus Dei and The Da Vinci Code' and have presented opposing views of a previously-private organization thanks to amazing access from both sides of the debate. We hope that the international release of our film will bring some clarity to this fascinating subject", said CTVC's Mr. Stuart.

About Ellis Entertainment:
Ellis Entertainment is one of the world's leading program providers in the global television marketplace. For over four decades, the company has been a leader in production and distribution for the world market, as well as an influential voice in the Canadian broadcasting system. The company's distribution arm, Ellis Releasing, has imported thousands of hours of the best programming from network suppliers in Britain, Australia and the U.S., and currently exports over 1,200 hours of programming worldwide, sourced from independent producers as well as its sister production arm, Ellis Vision.

About CTVC:
CTVC, winner of Britain's top award for religious broadcasting this year was founded by J. Arthur Rank, one of the legends of the British Film and TV industry, and grew out of his vision back in the 1930's to use modern means of communication to explore the religious and ethical issues that can challenge, excite and fascinate everyone. Years later, the company carries on Rank's vision as one of the most innovative companies in UK television by producing award-winning programs for multi-channel outlets as well as BBC, ITV, Channel 4, Channel 5 and Discovery, combined with New Media projects for schools. CTVC has filmed extensively abroad, particularly in the challenging regions of the Middle East where they have established a reputation for adopting a sensitive and responsible approach. In 2005, CTVC's acclaimed documentary "Victim 0001" was awarded the prestigious Sandford St.Martin's Premier Award, Britain's top prize for religious programming.

Press Contacts:

    Don Ciaramella / Dina Blau
    The Lippin Group/NY
    212-986-7080
    don@lippingroup.com
    dina@lippingroup.com