First on TVNewser: CNN is planning to launch a new feature film banner called CNN Films that will develop “tentpole” non-fiction films for television and theatrical release, TVNewser has learned.

The plan is for CNN Films to pursue well-known, distinguished documentarians and filmmakers, who will produce the features. The films will air on CNN, as well as in limited theatrical release and at film festivals. The first features produced under the CNN Films banner are expected to debut sometime in 2013.

CNN Films productions are expected to serve as event, tentpole programming, with a handful of new films released under the banner each year. As long as the subject matter is non-fiction, it is fair game for being featured. A spokesperson for CNN declined to comment.

CNN underwent a reorganization in its two documentary units back in March, combining them into one department with a focus on acquiring documentaries from outside production companies. CNN will continue to produce and acquire longform programming under the “CNN Presents” and “In America” banners, separately from CNN Films.