Retail Giant Backs the Little Guy

Retail Giant Backs the Little Guy

BENTONVILLE, Utah, April 15 /PRNewswire/ -- In the spirit of supporting the little guy, Wal-Mart has struck a deal with independent film distributor Excel Entertainment Group on DVD distribution rights for the award-winning film "Saints and Soldiers."

In a deal unprecedented in the industry, Wal-Mart gained exclusive big box rights for national distribution which includes key retailing space and heavy in-store advertising. "The partnership we have with Wal-Mart is very, very exciting," says Randy Davis, VP Motion Picture Distribution for Excel Entertainment Group. "With all the risk that independent filmmakers take in producing a movie and taking it to the mainstream, it's great to see such a retail giant stand behind the little guy."

"Saints and Soldiers" was produced for under $1,000,000, but has garnered national acclaim from critics and audiences alike. "Saints and Soldiers" walked away with 15 Best Picture Awards from film festivals around the country. Then, in late November another prestigious honor was bestowed upon the film. The 2004 IFP Independent Spirit Awards committee nominated the low budget indie for Best First Feature and Best Cinematography.

The DVD release, slated for Tuesday, May 31, 2005, follows a seven month theatrical release schedule and will be available at Wal-Mart stores nationwide.

Based on actual WWII events, the award-winning "Saints and Soldiers" tells the dramatic story of a small band of Allied soldiers trapped behind enemy lines with information that could save thousands of American lives. The film's director, Ryan Little, and the screen writers collected WWII Veteran's experiences and coalesced them into a singular story surrounding the Malmedy Massacre. Most notably is the true encounter between an American and a German who were friends before the war and now find themselves on opposite sides of the conflict.

Contact: Ashley Smart Media Relations 801-303-6368 asmart@xelent.com

Source: Excel Entertainment Group

CONTACT: Media Relations, Ashley Smart of Excel Entertainment Group, +1-801-303-6368, asmart@xelent.com

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