Epic Pictures Group Expands Film Production and Finance Operations

Patrick Ewald and Shaked Berenson's Epic Pictures Group is expanding its film production and finance operations with the hiring of John Short as V.P. of International Sales. The hiring marks Ewald and Berenson's commitment to focus on Epic's original productions, while Short will oversee day-to-day operations for the company's successful foreign sales business. Short is introducing Epic's slate at the upcoming Filmart in Hong Kong, March 18-21 and will then attend the Marché du Film in Cannes, May 16-25.

Epic Pictures Group's BIG ASS SPIDER! will make its world premiere at the upcoming SXSW Film Festival in Austin, TX on Monday, March 11. Ewald and Berenson financed and produced the picture that was directed by Mike Mendez and stars Greg Grunberg ("Heroes"). Klaus Von Sayn-Wittgenstein of Wittgenstein Entertainment Produced and co-financed with Epic. The company recently executive produced VIKINGDOM starring Dominic Purcell, Craig Fairbrass, Jon Foo, and Natassia Malthe; acquired horror anthology V/H/S at the 2012 Sundance Film Festival which is being released in theaters worldwide; and co-executive produced MALL, a collaboration with the multi-platinum and Grammy award winning band, Linkin Park.

Short comes to Epic Pictures Group with extensive knowledge and experience in the international film marketplace, including worldwide sales, distribution and marketing. He recently served as Vice President of International Sales for Hyde Park Entertainment, where he handled films including Bernie starring Jack Black, Shirley MacLaine, and Matthew McConaughey, Ghost Rider: Spirit of Vengeance starring Nicolas Cage and OUR IDIOT BROTHER starring Paul Rudd. Prior to Hyde Park, Short served as Vice President of YFG International where he sold titles such as THE ACCIDENTAL HUSBAND starring Uma Thurman, THE MAIDEN HEIST starring Morgan Freeman, and NOTHING BUT THE TRUTH starring Kate Beckinsale.