Amazon and horror factory Blumhouse TV have signed an exclusive deal to produce eight films for the former's streaming service.


The exclusive deal will have Blumhouse TV (USA's The Purge, HBO's Sharp Objects) produce a series of thriller movies that are linked thematically. Blumhouse founder Jason Blum says all eight will be made by "underrepresented" filmmakers.


"Jason Blum has built an empire based on fear, shock and all things spine-tingling. He has redefined the horror genre for fans who are hungry for high-concept scares," said Amazon Studios head Jennifer Salke. "Whether it's found footage, a socially conscious terror comedy or a pure sinister adrenaline ride, he reinvented and infused the genre with cultural relevancy. We can’t wait to see the nightmares he brings direct to service for our Prime Video global audience."


The Blumhouse pact is the latest in a series of major deals for Amazon. Since Salke took the top job, the tech giant has aligned with Barry Jenkins; Nicole Kidman's Blossom Films; Handmaid's Tale Emmy winner Reed Morano; Game of Thrones writer-producer Bryan Cogman; and Jordan Peele, the writer and director of the Blumhouse-produced Get Out, to develop content for Amazon Prime Video.


"We are delighted Amazon is entrusting Blumhouse to deliver its signature thrills and chills to its global audience through this deal," said Blum. "This is a great opportunity for Blumhouse Television to empower underrepresented filmmakers offering a fresh take on the dark genres loved by fans the world over."


The deal with Blumhouse is Amazon's first global, direct-to-service pact for feature-length programming.