Weinstein Co., the independent studio founded by Harvey and Bob Weinstein, is seeking to raise about $150 million to support film operations and retire debt, according to two people with knowledge of the effort.

The loan may be part of a larger strategic initiative by the studio, said one of the people, who asked not to be identified because the talks are private. The amount may change, the people said.

The fundraising effort coincides with a return to critical and commercial success for the Weinstein Co., which is among the top recipients of Oscar nominations this year for pictures including “The Artist” and “My Week With Marilyn.” The studio, which won best picture last year for “The King’s Speech,” is again winning raves in Hollywood.

A new loan would be backed by the existing Weinstein library, said the people. Union Bank is leading the arrangements, a source said.

David Glasser, Weinstein Co.’s chief operating officer, declined to comment.

Jane Yedinak, a spokeswoman for San Francisco-based Union Bank, didn’t respond to phone and e-mail requests for comment outside of business hours.