STAR looks beyond broadcast TV

Hong Kong - News Corporation is continuing its push into the growing Asian film market, announcing a joint venture between its Twentieth Century Fox and STAR, called Fox STAR Studios.

The new company will produce local-language films in Asia for worldwide distribution. It's first port of call will be the bright lights of Bollywood and soon expand into other markets including Greater China and South East Asia.

Paul Aiello, CEO of STAR, said the formation of Fox STAR Studios marks a "new milestone" for STAR's expansion into the business of filmed entertainment beyond television broadcasting.

"[This] underscores our growing confidence in the marketplace, as well as our long-term commitment to the film industry in Asia," he said in a statement.

"The combination of both of our companies' resources and expertise will surely help bring greater entertainment options for movie lovers across the globe."