MUMBAI: American cable network CNN has created a new division CNN Films to secure feature-length documentaries for airing on CNN and CNN International, alongside theatrical distribution.

The move is part of a wider strategy to acquire original non-fiction content to complement CNN‘s award-winning news programs, CNN Worldwide Managing Editor Mark Whitaker said.

Girl Rising, the first documentary acquired by CNN Films, will air in spring 2013. The documentary is directed by Academy Award Nominee Richard E. Robbins and executive produced by Tom Yellin and Holly Gordon of the Documentary Group and Paul G. Allen of Vulcan Productions.

CNN Films has also signed development deals with Academy Award Winning Director and Producer Alex Gibney and Director Andrew Rossi. Both will develop original documentaries to air on CNN.

"CNN Films will bring distinguished, thought-provoking documentary programming to our global audiences on all our television, online and mobile platforms," said Whitaker. "We want these documentaries to tell compelling stories and stimulate important discussions across CNN‘s other programs and websites."

The original feature-length documentaries will examine an array of political, social, and economic subject matters. The films will premiere in primetime and will re-air in order to increase exposure. Surrounding the premiere of each documentary, acclaimed CNN programs will run dedicated programming that sheds light on the topics and issues discussed in each film.

In-depth interviews, expert commentary, roundtable discussions, debates, and behind-the-scenes footage will be featured across all of CNN‘s broadcast and online platforms.

CNN Worldwide senior vice president of talent and content development Amy Entelis and CNN Worldwide senior vice president of development and acquisitions Vinnie Malhotra will oversee the acquisition strategy of documentaries under the CNN Films banner. Malhotra will manage the day-to-day operation of CNN Films, and work directly with filmmakers to develop original projects.

CNN Films also plans to bring the documentaries beyond the small screen by developing strategic partnerships to leverage distribution opportunities at film festivals and in theaters, the news broadcaster said.