NEWSMAKERS Independent Film Executive to Head Warner Unit Mark Gill has been named president of Warner Independent Pictures, a new unit of Warner Bros. Entertainment aimed at acquiring, developing and producing independent films. “This is a once in a lifetime opportunity that was impossible to resist,” said Gill, who joined Warner Independent from Stratus Film Co. in Los Angeles, which produced several films, including “Laws of Attraction.” Gill had served for five years as president of Miramax Pictures where he was involved in the production and acquisition of more than 25 films, including “Frida,” “In the Bedroom,” “Amelie,” and others. Gill will report to Warner Bros. Motion Pictures Production President Jeff Robinov. “I’m also looking forward to the benefits of new relationships to be forged throughout Warner Bros. Entertainment,” Gill said. With a background in marketing, Gill will oversee efforts in the acquisition, postproduction, development and marketing of independent films for the company which is headquartered on the Warner Bros. studio lot in Burbank. Gill will head efforts at developing director-driven films that are targeted for niche audiences rather than larger, studio-produced properties that appeal to wide audiences, the company said. The new company, which is still hiring staff, will be a lean operation with just a handful of staffers handling acquisition, marketing, public relations and business affairs. The company plans to acquire between five and 10 films per year with budgets of up to $20 million. Gill said the company plans to start releasing films by next spring. Gill’s past experience includes five years at Columbia and Tri-Star Pictures, both units of Sony Pictures Entertainment, where he served as senior vice president of marketing, and four years at Rogers & Cowan public relations firm. 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