France's Vivendi Acquires Italy's Lucky Red

Variety

by nvivarelli

February 24, 2026

AI-Generated Deep Dive Summary

France’s Vivendi has acquired a majority stake in Italy’s Lucky Red, a prominent independent film distributor and production company, marking the latest move in European media consolidation. The deal, valued at approximately $31 million, gives Vivendi a 51% ownership of the Rome-based company, while Lucky Red’s co-founder Andrea Occhipinti retains the remaining 49%. This strategic partnership is expected to foster European synergies without impacting Lucky Red’s creative direction or management. Lucky Red has long been a key player in Italy’s film industry, distributing over 400 titles by internationally renowned filmmakers such as Ang Lee, Wes Anderson, and Sofia Coppola. The company’s recent projects include high-profile films like the Netflix-produced “On My Skin” and Gabriele Mainetti’s “Freaks Out.” Lucky Red is also known for its collaborations with French directors, including Robin Campillo and Christophe Honoré. Its partnership with Indigo Film in sales highlights its role as a key player in European co-productions. The acquisition aligns with a trend of French companies acquiring Italian entertainment firms, following previous deals such as Wild Bunch’s purchase of BIM Distribuzione and Mediawan’s acquisition of Palomar and Our Films. Lucky Red’s strong financial performance, with 2024 revenues exceeding €50 million and a net profit of over €3.7 million, positions it as a valuable asset for Vivendi. The deal is part of a broader strategy to strengthen European media alliances and expand distribution networks across the continent. This move matters because it underscores the ongoing consolidation in Europe’s entertainment sector, driven by major players seeking to enhance their market reach and production capabilities. Lucky Red’s acquisition signals a shift toward larger,跨国 co-production and distribution deals, which could lead to more ambitious European films and greater cultural exchange in the industry.

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Originally published on Variety on 2/24/2026