CNN creates documentary film division

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NEW YORK, Oct. 8 (UPI) -- U.S. cable network CNN says it has created CNN Films, a division to secure feature-length documentaries for television and theaters.

The move is part of a wider strategy to acquire original non-fiction content to complement news programs, it was announced Monday by CNN Worldwide Managing Editor Mark Whitaker.

"Girl Rising," the first documentary acquired by CNN Films, will air in the spring. The film tells the stories of several girls from around the globe fighting to overcome what seem to be impossible odds to realize their dreams. It features the voices of Meryl Streep, Anne Hathaway, Kerry Washington, and Selena Gomez.

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