WatchWatchers Films: Former The Searchers Executive Launches New Benelux Distribution Company
The European independent film distribution landscape is welcoming a new player with the launch of WatchWatchers Films, a Belgium-based distribution company established by former The Searchers executive Edisson Chatchatrian. The new venture aims to bring international films to audiences across the Benelux region, with a business strategy that combines theatrical releases, home entertainment, television and digital distribution.
The company's launch is particularly interesting for independent filmmakers and international producers looking for distribution opportunities in European markets. With an initial collection of action, horror and other international titles, WatchWatchers Films is positioning itself around commercially appealing films and partnerships with established industry players.
Who Is Behind WatchWatchers Films?
WatchWatchers Films was founded by Edisson Chatchatrian, who previously served as vice-president of sales and acquisitions at Belgian distributor The Searchers.
He held that position from 2018 until August 2026, gaining experience in identifying international film projects, acquiring distribution rights and developing commercial opportunities across different entertainment platforms.
His experience in sales and acquisitions is expected to play an important role in shaping the new company's direction. Rather than concentrating exclusively on theatrical releases, WatchWatchers Films intends to explore multiple distribution channels to maximise the commercial potential of its acquisitions.
The company will operate across Belgium, the Netherlands and Luxembourg, collectively known as the Benelux region.
Initial Film Acquisitions
WatchWatchers Films has already started building its catalogue with several international productions.
Its initial home entertainment acquisitions include Hellboy: The Crooked Man (2024), Agent Recon from Millennium Films and Legend of the White Dragon (2026), acquired from Film Mode.
These selections indicate an interest in action, fantasy and genre-driven entertainment that can appeal to audiences beyond traditional theatrical markets.
Action and horror films have established international audiences, making them attractive categories for distributors seeking opportunities across television, streaming and home entertainment.
The company is also interested in acquiring films with recognisable actors and strong commercial potential. Its acquisition strategy will consider the requirements of television and video-on-demand partners rather than relying solely on theatrical performance.
Theatrical Releases Planned for 2027
Although home entertainment is an important part of its business model, WatchWatchers Films is also preparing to enter the theatrical distribution market.
The company expects to begin its first theatrical releases in early 2027, with a combination of independently acquired films and distribution arrangements made on behalf of other companies.
One of its notable upcoming projects is Brunello: The Gracious Visionary, a feature documentary directed by Giuseppe Tornatore. The film explores the Italian fashion entrepreneur Brunello Cucinelli and is scheduled for a Belgian theatrical release in early 2027.
WatchWatchers Films plans to distribute the documentary across approximately 35–40 screens, giving it a significant theatrical presence within its initial release programme.
The project also demonstrates that the company's interests are not restricted to action and horror. Documentaries and films centred on internationally recognised personalities can also become part of its distribution portfolio.
Distribution Partnerships Across Europe
An important part of WatchWatchers Films' business model involves working with other distributors and handling local theatrical releases.
Its announced projects include Sander Burger's Youri, which it will distribute theatrically in Belgium on behalf of Dutch distributor Gusto Entertainment.
Another title is James Nunn's survival thriller Hungry, which will receive a Belgian release through an arrangement with Premiere TV.
The company is also handling the Belgian release of Ludovica Rampoldi's Breve Storia d'Amore for J&J Films, with the release planned for January 2027.
Additionally, WatchWatchers Films has established an agreement with France's SAJE Distribution to release selected titles in Dutch-speaking Benelux territories. The specific films covered by this arrangement have not yet been disclosed.
These partnerships are important because independent distributors do not always need to acquire complete international rights to participate in a film's commercial journey. They can also provide regional distribution services, helping other companies introduce their productions to audiences in particular territories.
Why Home Entertainment Matters
One of the most interesting aspects of WatchWatchers Films' strategy is its emphasis on home entertainment and the commercial opportunities available beyond cinemas.
A theatrical release is only one possible route for a film to generate revenue. Television broadcasting, subscription streaming platforms and transactional video-on-demand services offer additional distribution opportunities.
Transactional VOD allows viewers to rent or purchase individual films digitally rather than relying on a subscription service.
For independent films, choosing the appropriate release strategy can be particularly important. Some productions may benefit from a cinema release, while others may find a more suitable audience through television or digital platforms.
A distributor that understands these different markets can help producers identify suitable release opportunities. However, the commercial performance of each title will depend on factors such as audience demand, licensing agreements, marketing and distribution costs.
This multi-platform approach is central to the business direction Chatchatrian is pursuing with his new company.
American Film Market: Looking for More Acquisitions
WatchWatchers Films is also preparing to expand its catalogue by exploring new projects at the American Film Market (AFM), an important international marketplace where filmmakers, production companies, sales agents and distributors meet to negotiate film rights and distribution agreements.
Chatchatrian plans to attend the November 2026 market to identify additional titles for the company.
His acquisition interests include action films featuring recognisable casts and horror productions with commercial appeal. The company intends to assess potential acquisitions according to the preferences and requirements of its television and VOD partners.
This approach suggests that the distributor wants to build its catalogue around identifiable audience demand rather than acquiring films without a clear distribution strategy.
What the Launch Means for Independent Cinema
The launch of WatchWatchers Films highlights the continuing importance of regional distribution companies in the international film business.
While major studios and global streaming services attract considerable attention, independent distributors remain an important link between film producers and audiences in individual markets.
A company operating in the Benelux region can provide local theatrical access, establish relationships with television and digital platforms, and help international productions reach viewers who might otherwise have limited access to them.
For filmmakers and independent production companies, additional distribution partners can create more opportunities to sell regional rights and extend the commercial life of their projects.
WatchWatchers Films is entering the market with industry experience, an initial collection of acquisitions and several distribution partnerships already in place.
Its next important step will be converting these early arrangements into successful releases and building a sustainable catalogue. With its first theatrical programme expected in 2027 and further acquisitions planned, the company's progress will be worth watching as it establishes its position in European independent film distribution.
