Published:
11-Jul-08
Italian cinema and film company Filmauro has entered into a strategic partnership with video distributor Medusa Video, a subsidiary of Berlusconi-owned Mediaset, under which Medusa will handle video distribution for both companies' portfolios of titles. This deal follows the collapse of Filmauro's previous distribution partner, Dnc Entertainment, in May. The first release under the new arrangement will be Filmauro's hit comedy
Grande, Grosso ... e Verdone, which will be released to DVD rental on 23 July 2008 and DVD retail on 10 September. Both businesses will keep their respective brands and separate business strategies. In 2007 Medusa's theatrical division accounted for 17.3% of the Italian box office, according to Screen Digest data; Filmauro accounted for 8.2% of takings but was responsible for two of the top three theatrical titles.
Our take...
The linking of two of Italy's leading independent players is likely to prove particularly beneficial to the country's rental market. Medusa is a strong supporter of the rental sector and the announcement of a seven-week rental window for the first title from Filmauro's strong slate bodes well. Historically, rental has been very important in Italy. However, spending on the sector has been falling rapidly—down 12% and 16% respectively in 2006 and 2007. Despite this, in 2007 it still accounted for over 30% of consumer spending on video, compared with 14% in the UK and just 7% in France.
Italy,
