Alcon to co-finance 'What to Expect'

Alcon Entertainment has agreed to co-finance Lionsgate's "What to Expect When You're Expecting" -- its first such investment outside Warner Bros. The two companies announced Thursday that they will be equally sharing the production and marketing costs on the film. The announcement was made jointly by Lionsgate's motion picture group president Joe Drake and Alcon toppers Andrew Kosove and Broderick Johnson. Pic, which follows several couples through their pregnancies, is scheduled for domestic release on May 11. Alcon noted that it's aiming to ramp up its film business. "Alcon's participation as 'passive financiers' of the project signifies the company's strategy to generate additional film output, and as such Johnson and Kosove will not take producer credits," the announcement said. Lionsgate noted that it's partnered financially on previous films with Lakeshore Entertainment, Relativity and Crest Animation. "This co-financing deal is ideal for both of us because it aligns our interests; there is a true sharing of risk capital, including P&A on films that we both see great value in making," Drake said. "This deal provides a way for Lionsgate to pursue risk mitigation, while allowing Alcon to have broader access to commercial content beyond the product they develop themselves." "Expecting" is directed by Kirk Jones ("Nanny McPhee") and stars Cameron Diaz, Jennifer Lopez, Elizabeth Banks, Chace Crawford, Brooklyn Decker, Anna Kendrick, Matthew Morrison, Dennis Quaid and Chris Rock. Contact Dave McNary at dave.mcnary@variety.com