Dalian Wanda Group and Sony Pictures Entertainment Motion Picture Group today announced that they will enter into a strategic alliance that will include equity co-financing in some cases, comprising a number of Sony Pictures’ upcoming releases in China. The deal marks Wanda’s first multi-picture partnership with a major studio.

Wanda will provide its massive infrastructure in China to help Sony Pictures broaden its global presence.

"The Chinese market for Hollywood films continues to boom, and this alliance gives a huge boost to our ability to connect directly with its audiences. Wanda is a dynamic entertainment player led by the visionary chairman Wang Jianlin; we are honored to be in business with them. I am also pleased to be working again with my friend and former colleague Jack Gao," said Tom Rothman, Chairman, Sony Pictures Entertainment Motion Picture Group.

The deal will utilize Wanda's extensive digital and physical infrastructure, including Wanda Cinema Line – Asia’s largest cinema owner – as well as Wanda's 100+ entertainment plazas, its growing theme park business, and its electronic movie ticketing platform. Wanda recently announced an exhibition deal with IMAX, which will see the construction of 150 additional IMAX theatres in China.

Sony Pictures’ films in China are distributed by the China Film Group and Huaxia.