Indie distributor Row K Entertainment, launched less than eight months ago, faces unpaid bills and financial concerns that threaten its film slate. Maude Apatow's directorial debut 'Poetic License' has been delayed from May to September, perplexing its producers and star. Founders cite strategic adjustments amid vendor payment delays.
Row K Entertainment, a Hollywood distribution label started last summer, is dealing with cash flow problems, according to eight sources inside and outside the company. Vendors and consultants report months of unpaid bills, leading to work stoppages and legal threats. The company's first release, Gus Van Sant's 'Dead Man's Wire,' acquired for a mid-seven-figure sum, grossed $2.5 million in the U.S. in January and resulted in losses, sources say. Row K hired a financial controller just before its theatrical run. Acquired at the 2025 Toronto International Film Festival alongside three others, the slate includes Maude Apatow's 'Poetic License,' produced by Judd Apatow and starring Leslie Mann. The film, which received positive reviews at TIFF and SXSW, was shifted from a planned May release to September. Insiders note Row K has not accepted delivery or paid Apatow's team, as required within 10 days of receiving the final cut delivered end of February. Other films are the romantic indie 'Charlie Harper' with Emilia Jones and Nick Robinson, and a 'Cliffhanger' reboot featuring Lily James and Pierce Bronson, set for August—though its deal with CAA was not formally closed. Row K recently announced acquiring 'Mister,' an action-comedy with Walton Goggins and Chloe Grace Moretz. Founders Christopher Woodrow and Raj Singh, operating via Media Capital Technologies with MassMutual credit facility support, stated: “Row K’s release of ‘Dead Man’s Wire’ has provided an important opportunity to evaluate and refine our strategy... prioritizing commercially viable titles.” They added: “As is standard... Row K is well-capitalized.” Creative head Megan Colligan and executives Mo Rhim and Ben Carlson have hired attorney Bryan Freedman over financial issues. The company plans CinemaCon and Cannes attendance.
