AceShowbiz - Warner Bros. Discovery has signed a first-look film deal with company veteran Jack Nguyen's startup production banner, Joat Films. The agreement focuses on Asia-focussed remakes of Warner Bros.' English-language library titles. Their first project under the pact will be a Korean remake of the 2015 comedy-drama The Intern.

Nguyen, a former 30-year veteran of Warner Bros., supervised local-language film efforts in Asia and Latin America during his tenure, overseeing productions such as "Letters from Iwo Jima", "Rurouni Kenshin" and "Yurusarezaru Mono". He also led market entries into China, India, Japan and Korea.

Under the deal, Nguyen will present Asia-focused film projects to Warner Bros., co-producing with local partners in markets including Korea and India. Warner Bros. produced and distributed notable Korean films such as "The Age of Shadows", "The Witch," and others.

Kurt Rieder, SVP and head of theatrical distribution in APAC for WBD, expressed optimism about the partnership, citing Nguyen's expertise in the Asian film production industry. He emphasized the strong demand for remakes of Hollywood stories in the region.

Nguyen expressed gratitude for the opportunity, stating that he has deep respect and loyalty for Warner Bros., where he spent a significant part of his career. He aims to produce high-quality local language remakes with talented filmmakers, while also showcasing new and emerging talent.