Silver Gets More Authority Than Expected at Universal : Entertainment: The studio executive was named president.

Casey Silver was named president of Universal Pictures on Wednesday and given broad new responsibilities, including the authority to “green light” movies.

Though Silver’s promotion was expected in industry circles, some were surprised by the degree of autonomy he received. Universal said Silver, 39, will have control over all production, marketing and distribution at the studio, a division of MCA Inc.

Silver said he expects to “stay the course” at Universal, which has recently emerged from a long dry spell at the box office with Steven Spielberg-driven hits such as “Jurassic Park,” “Schindler’s List” and “The Flintstones.” The latter grossed $37.5 million over the Memorial Day weekend.

“I want to make as many good movies as I can,” Silver said. “I have no plans to change what we’re going to do.”

Silver worked as president of production at Universal for five years. Hal Lieberman, executive vice president of production, is rumored to be the leading candidate to replace him.

Silver will report to Motion Picture Group Chairman Tom Pollock, who will become more involved in strategic planning. In particular, Pollock is expected to focus on the international film market and MCA’s minority interest in Cineplex Odeon.

“What I will do is what I’ve always done, which is try to provide leadership,” said Pollock, who recently renewed his contract. “Casey is assuming a substantial amount of increased responsibility. But in my incarnation, I have also assumed quite a bit of additional responsibility within this company and in certain ventures outside the company.”