Published:
02-Jun-08
Independent movie studio and distributor Lionsgate has become the latest distributor to sign a long-term deal to support AccessIT's d-cinema network. The agreement includes the supply of digital content as well as provision of virtual print fee (VPF) payments for a period of 10 years. It covers the first phase of AccessIT's d-cinema networked screens only—around 3,700 screens in North America.
Our take...
Lionsgate has already provided 23 digital releases on AccessIT's network and paid the corresponding VPF, but the agreement is a formalisation of its continued support. In addition, Lionsgate is currently involved with negotiations for AccessIT's second phase for a target of 10,000 screens, which now includes 8,000 screens from the Cinema Buying Group (CBG) an independent exhibitor consortium, scheduled to begin roll-out next month (July). The second phase has already secured financial backing from four studios—Disney, Fox, Paramount and Universal—although this was specified for a limited time only, as opposed to the long- term VPF agreements typical of the first phase. Lionsgate is also reported to be in negotiations with other third-party facilitators in North America.
