Belgium's KINEPOLIS has sealed an alliance with the German film production and distribution group SENATOR FILM to gain majority control over CINEMAXX, leader on the German market. Currently 30% owned by KINEPOLIS, CINEMAXX will be floating a capital increase, financed principally by SENATOR. The two partners will then consolidate their shares in a joint holding company that will have majority control over the group. CINEMAXX has also concluded an agreement with UFA THEATER (turnover of DEM 300 million with 1,450 employees and 80 cinemas), another German cinema operator, under which it will acquire a 10% share, with an option on securing a majority share at a later date.