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RTL Germany Ink Disney Deal For TV Shows And Movies

Kelly — Fri, 03 Feb 2012 07:59:02 +0000

Commercial German TV broadcaster, RTL Deutschland have signed a deal with Disney that gives the company the German TV premieres for movies from Disney/Pixar, DreamWorks and ABC TV shows.

RTL deal with Disney

The multi-year and exclusive deal comes as rival German network, ProSiebenSat.1 loses the Disney content as it’s deal ends. Content that will come to RTL includes John Carter, Brave, The Avengers and ABC fairytale show, Once Upon a Time.

No financial details were disclosed but speaking about the deal, Robert Langer from Disney said RTL were, “a perfect TV partner for our attractive series and film highlights in Germany”.

The news cements RTL’s dominant position and joins existing deals it has with NBCUniversal, Warner Bros and Studiocanal.

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LoveFilm And Disney Content Deal Secures Hit ABC TV Shows

admin — Tue, 17 Jan 2012 14:54:38 +0000

Amazon owned LoveFilm are beefing up their content reserves as they compete with newly launched Netflix UK. They have agreed a deal with Disney for ABC TV streaming rights to hit shows like Grey’s Anatomy, Desperate Housewives and Lost amongst others.

LoveFilm get ABC show streaming rights

The streaming del will allow LoveFilm to show full seasons on-demand after they have aired on TV, and back seasons of some shows will be made available on LoveFilm Instant as well.

Speaking for LoveFilm, CEO Simon Calver said, “Today’s deal with Disney brings (LoveFilm subscribers) access to some of the best American TV content ever produced.”

For the Walt Disney Company, Catherine Powell, senior vice president said, “ABC TV On Demand is home to high quality, compelling US drama, produced by ABC Studios, and launching this service with LOVEFiLM means we are able to offer viewers more choice and flexibility in how and when they can view full seasons of these gripping shows, through one easy-to-use service.”

LoveFilm boasts 2 million subscribers across Europe and offers a streaming-only subscription service for £4.99 monthly (approx $7.50) for web-enabled devices such as PC, PS3, Xbox 360, iPad, Blu-ray players and connected TV sets.

They are currently locked in a content battle with Netflix, who this month launched a streaming service in the UK and Ireland for £5.99 (approx $9.17) monthly. Netflix have struck deals with the BBC, Miramax, ITV, Channel 4, Disney, Lionsgate and Momentum Pictures whilst Lovefilm has deals with Sony Pictures, Warner Bros., BBC Worldwide and ITV, eOne and Studiocanal.

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YouTube Adds Disney Content To Online Rental Options

admin — Thu, 24 Nov 2011 18:45:22 +0000

Following on from their recent creation of 100 new online channels for original content, YouTube have struck deals with a number of high-profile content providers to add a larger number of titles to their movie rental service. As well as Pixar and Dreamworks, the focus of the deal is that Disney is now a content provider to the online streaming service branch of the Google-owned online video giant.

Beginning this week, American users of the site are now able to pay for the privelage of renting movies from official Disney studios, including modern titles such as Pirates of the Caribbean: On Stranger Tides, and classic hits like Alice in Wonderland.

However, YouTube claim that while those are a selection of the few films available at the moment, there will be more Disney titles included on their ’movies’ service in the coming weeks, as well as promising additional DVD-style ‘extras’.

The agreement comes after the two companies had reached an agreement earlier this month to produce a series of original ‘family-friendly online content’ as of 2012, which will be hosted on exclusive new channels on Disney.com and YouTube, respectively.

The companies had issued a joint statement on that matter, stating a few weeks ago: ”Disney Interactive will produce and program the co-branded video destinations for both Disney.com and YouTube, providing a family-friendly experience for viewers across both platforms.”

Disney Interactive co-president Jimmy Pitaro added: “With online video consumption exploding and YouTube at the center of that trend, we see an opportunity for Disney Interactive and YouTube to bring Disney’s legacy of storytelling to a new generation of families and Disney enthusiasts on the platforms they prefer. As we prepare to re-launch Disney.com in fall 2012, the Disney/YouTube destination will play a critical part in our next generation platform.”

It is certainly a deal with a large amount of potential, but how will they handle the pressure of their collective reputations? Will other content hosts and providers be able to hold their own in the market against what is arguably the best-known global online video presence teaming up with one of the best-known offline ones?

New ABC Disney Deals For Netflix And Amazon

admin — Wed, 02 Nov 2011 08:35:47 +0000

Disney-ABC have confirmed further licensing agreements with online Streaming services Netflix and Amazon.

Lost coming to Netflix and Amazon Prime

The deal with Netflix is an extension of an existing contract that lets Netflix stream content from ABC Studios, Disney Channel and ABC Family. For Amazon, the deal will see them streaming content from ABC Family, ABC Studios, Marvel and Disney Channel to $79 yearly Prime customers.

The deal will allow streaming of new seasons from Disney-ABC series, but only after a 30 day period after the last episode of the season has been shown. The deal brings big shows such as Private Practice, Grey’s Anatomy, Ugly Betty, Lost and Desperate Housewives to US online viewers.

For Amazon the deal is for less content, but it cost less as Amazon will not be charging the rates that Netflix do. The deal comes just as they prepare to unleash the new Kindle Fire tablet.

Disney Channel Expands To Russia

admin — Sat, 29 Oct 2011 14:12:57 +0000

The Disney channel is coming to Russia it has been announced. Walt Disney Co. will buy up a 49% stake of Russian broadcaster Seven TV, who have an estimated audience of around 40 million homes which equates to 75% of the TV audience.

The channel will feature Disney programming and original Russian content, the companies said in a statement. It will be free-to-air and supported by advertising.

The deal which is said to have cost Disney in the region of $300 million will see old favorites like Phineas & Ferb and Mickey Mouse along with original Russian shows when it launches in early 2912. Seven TV are also owned by media company, UTH Russia.

The agreement was made public after a visit to meet Russian President Vladimir Putin by Disney CEO Bob Iger.

The new Russian Disney Channel will air for free even though they have an existing cable channel in Russia. Cable though is not so popular meaning Disney currently only reach an audience of 5-6 million.

Speaking about the deal, Disney president and chief exec, Robert Iger said, “International expansion is a key strategic priority for our company and Disney Channel has proven to be invaluable in building the Disney brand around the world. We are excited about increasing Disney Channel’s presence in Russia and delivering exceptional family entertainment to this important growth market.”

Apeaking for UTH Russia, Ivan Tavrin, chief exec said, “We believe that our partnership with The Walt Disney Company, the global entertainment leader, will establish a popular and highly successful free-to-air business.”

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Disney 3D Plan Four More Remakes

Matt — Thu, 06 Oct 2011 20:43:08 +0000

Following on from the success of their recent 3D re-release of The Lion King (which has made over $80m in box office since 16 September), Disney (and subsidary Pixar) are planning a further four similar re-releases of animated films over the next two years.

Attempting to cash in on the new-found market for 3D re-releases Disney will offer revamped versions of Beauty and the Beast (US re-release date of 13 January 2012, after being postponed from original plans to premiere the film in 3D in 2010) and The Little Mermaid (13 September 2013).

Former affiliate Pixar meanwhile, who have been an official branch of Disney since 2006, have their own plans, with the animation studio rolling out 3D versions of Finding Nemo (14 September 2012) and Monsters, Inc. (18 January 2013).

Alan Bergman, the president of Walt Disney Studios issued an official statement on the re-releases, saying: “Great stories and great characters are timeless, and at Disney we’re fortunate to have a treasure trove of both. We’re thrilled to give audiences of all ages the chance to experience these beloved tales in an exciting new way with 3D – and in the case of younger generations, for the first time on the big screen.”

Meanwhile, staff at Pixar were quick to issue their tributes today after the death of Apple co-founder Steve Jobs, who also co-founded Pixar and was credited as an executive producer for the studio’s inaugural film Toy Story (in 1995).

Pixar president Ed Catmull and chief creative officer John Lasseter said of Jobs on the company’s Facebook page: “Steve Jobs was an extraordinary visionary, our very dear friend and the guiding light of the Pixar family. He saw the potential of what Pixar could be before the rest of us, and beyond what anyone ever imagined. Steve took a chance on us and believed in our crazy dream of making computer animated films; the one thing he always said was to simply ‘make it great’. He is why Pixar turned out the way we did and his strength, integrity and love of life has made us all better people. He will forever be a part of Pixar’s DNA. Our hearts go out to his wife Laurene and their children during this incredibly difficult time.”

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Disney To Review Netflix Arrangement

delboy — Wed, 10 Aug 2011 11:48:42 +0000

Disney’s attitude toward Netflix seems to be changing. Don’t expect to watch premium programming on subscription VOD services such as Netflix and Amazon Prime soon.

Talking to investors about Disney’s 3rd quarter results, CEO Bob Iger said “the studio is in discussions with Netflix and other SVOD players about licensing largely library catalog compared to new-release movies or current season TV programming”.

“Our overall approach of late has been to make deals that increase revenue while at the same time protect and respect the multi-channel or channel distribution value that we see today,” Iger added.

“There is clearly a thirst for filmed entertainment, particularly branded high-quality entertainment, and what we’re seeing, I think stimulated in part by not only higher connectivity speeds but significant development in tablet computers, we’re looking at platforms that are creating all types of new business opportunities,” Iger continued.

The CEO said that moving forward the studio would move away from long term licensing agreements due to the rapidly evolving distribution channels and technology.

“We will make access to newer programming more difficult or later, except if a customer is authenticated as a cable or satellite TV subscriber,” he said. “I think you’ll see over the next few years a lot of deals done that enable this. We now have to hope that not only is the technology improved that enables authentication but that the whole user experience gets better.”

“It is our intention to take a very careful look at what films cost and if we can’t get them to a level that we are comfortable with, we think that we are better off actually reducing the size of our slate than making films that are bigger and increasingly more risky,” he said.

Iger also said the aim of the studio was on production costs of movies versus internal structuring within the studio operations.

Hulu Securing New Deals With Disney And Fox And Upping Ad Revenue

admin — Sun, 26 Jun 2011 14:55:44 +0000

It is business as usual for Disney after the rumors of a possible sale to Yahoo! And that means securing long term content deals with major providers. And it seems that they have a Disney content deal pretty much wrapped up.

Hulu renewing content deals ready for possible sale?

It has also been reported that the new deals will increase the number of ads to be shown. Increasing advertising revenue even more (Hulu already accounts for a third of all online advertising), and making Hulu even more “sellable”.

A report in AdAge says that, according to two insiders, Hulu and Disney have reached a “tentative agreement” to renew on streaming content rights. This means more streaming from TV network ABC (owned by Disney) as well as News Corps, Fox which is also part owned by Disney.

A report in Variety says that Hulu has also renewed its agreement with Fox. Renewed shows will include Family Guy, Modern Family, Grey’s Anatomy, Simpsons and Glee.

If Hulu is to be sold then licensing agreements and content rights will determine both it’s selling price and desirability to prospective owners. In fact it was a lack of renewals that led to the Hulu IPO failing.

Although reports of a sale have been denied, the renewal of the main content deals could mean just the opposite.

Disney Keeping Online Options Open

admin — Sun, 05 Jun 2011 15:35:37 +0000

Disney may be part owner of online streaming service Hulu, but that has not stopped them looking at other online options to profit from their content.

Disney looking to profit from multi-platforms

It was revealed this week that Disney sre to overhaul the Disney website, giving a fresher design that lets users stream tv shows and movies direct from the website. It marks a point that may bring Disney into competition with their own distributors and companies such as ABC.

But Disney President and Chief Exec Robert Iger has said that he views competing with Hulu, Amazon, Netflix and iTunes as healthy. He said that the more content distribution channels for Disney is a good thing as, “It keeps people honest.”

He views the Disney name as being unique because, “it really is the only true global entertainment brand.”

He said, “We like Hulu for a number of reasons, not just because we are an equity partner. It’s a good user experience, yet another place for people to access our material. It also ends up being important in terms of the dynamic of our relationship with distributors. When you are a content creator, the more distributors the merrier. It keeps them all honest.”

Talking about the ever expanding Netflix he said, “We view Netflix positively, it’s a good provider for our content to be accessible on.”

“We believe we have an opportunity to deliver content directly to consumers. Disney and Disney.com is being rebuilt. It will be monetized in multiple ways,” he said

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Fusion 3D Systems Capture First-Ever “Pirates Of The Carribean” Film In 3D

admin — Fri, 20 May 2011 06:50:41 +0000

CAMERON – PACE Group’s FUSION 3D Systems Capture the First-Ever “Pirates of the Caribbean” Film in 3D Film

BURBANK, CA May 19, 2011 – CAMERON – PACE Group (CPG) announces it is the innovative company responsible for designing and supplying 7 FUSION 3D rigs and SLATE²SCREEN™ 3D production crew for Walt Disney Pictures’ and Jerry Bruckheimer Films’ 3D action-adventure film, “pirates of the carribean: on stranger tides,” directed by Rob Marshall. As the first-ever “Pirates of the Caribbean” film to be released in 3D and the fourth installment in the blockbuster “Pirates” series, it will be released in Disney Digital 3D™, IMAX® 3D as well as traditional 2D and IMAX® formats on May 20, 2011.

“We custom designed and built stabilized handheld FUSION 3D rigs outfitted with the RED Millennium X (MX) cameras for this production,” said Vince Pace, Co-Chairman and CEO of CAMERON – PACE Group.

CAMERON – PACE Group (formerly PACE) also pioneered an advanced mobile X frame system for video engineering and convergence that allowed producer Jerry Bruckheimer, director Rob Marshall and cinematographer Dariusz Wolski to capture “PIRATES OF THE CARRIBEAN: ON STRANGER TIDES” footage with complete mobility and a minimal footprint while shooting on location in Hawaii, Puerto Rico, Los Angeles and London.

CAMERON – PACE Group’s technology and innovation has resulted in over $5 billion of box office receipts and major 3D benchmarks recognized within the industry including the 3D high-tech adventure, “TRON: LEGACY” and the sci-fi epic blockbuster, “AVATAR.” The FUSION 3D system has become the most utilized, creative and advanced workflow system available within the industry.

About CAMERON – PACE Group:

CAMERON – PACE Group (CPG) is a trend-creating technology and production services firm. CPG is advancing the future of 3D across all media channels by making the most advanced products, support solutions and creative tools available and accessible to networks, studios, broadcasters, filmmakers and creative teams around the globe. The company is singularly dedicated to building upon the strong foundation of innovative technology developed by its visionary co-founders, James Cameron, Vince Pace and Patrick Campbell and leveraging its unmatched 3D expertise to help content producers realize 3D’s full potential as a creative and powerful storytelling medium. CAMERON – PACE Group was founded in 2011 by James Cameron and Vince Pace and is headquartered in Burbank, CA.

For more information, please visit www.cameronpace.com

About the Movie:

Produced by Jerry Bruckheimer and directed by Rob Marshall, “Pirates of the Caribbean: On Stranger Tides” captures the fun, excitement and humor that ignited the hit franchise—this time in Disney Digital 3D™. Johnny Depp returns to his iconic role of Captain Jack Sparrow in this action-packed adventure that finds him crossing paths (and swords) with the enigmatic Angelica (Penélope Cruz). When she forces him aboard the “Queen Anne’s Revenge,” the ship of the legendary pirate Blackbeard (Ian McShane), Jack finds himself on an unexpected journey to the fabled Fountain of Youth. Along the way Jack must use all his wiles to deal with the barbarous Blackbeard and his crew of zombies, Angelica, the ravishing pirate with whom he shares a dubious past, and the beautiful, enchanting mermaids whose masterful cunning can lure even the most seasoned sailor to his doom. The international cast includes franchise vets Geoffrey Rush as the indestructible Captain Hector Barbossa and Kevin R. McNally as Captain Jack’s longtime comrade Joshamee Gibbs, plus Sam Claflin as a stalwart missionary and Astrid Bergès-Frisbey as a mysterious mermaid.

Walt Disney Pictures and Jerry Bruckheimer Films’ “Pirates of the Caribbean: On Stranger Tides” opens in theaters May 20, 2011, in Disney Digital 3D™, with screen story and screenplay by Ted Elliott & Terry Rossio, based on characters created by Ted Elliott & Terry Rossio and Stuart Beattie and Jay Wolpert, and suggested by the novel by Tim Powers.

For more information on the movie, please visit, http://disney.go.com/pirates/

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Hulu Looking To Extend Online TV Content Agreements

admin — Sat, 14 May 2011 16:42:22 +0000

As the number of online streaming platforms increase, so does the competition for content rights. With this in mind, Hulu have been quick to try and tie up long term content agreements.

Hulu looking to extend content deals

Reports in MediaMemo say that new deals could be sewn up within a week, securing content from Fox, NBC and ABC on the catch-up tv website. It reports that, “An agreement to extend the content licenses that owners News Corp., Disney and NBC Universal signed two years ago should be in place within a week.”

What is still in question though, is whether the agreements will be exclusive or allow the content to be streamed by other services. MediaMemo say that, “It will have to accept whatever terms its partners arrange.”

Boss of Hulu, Jason Kilar has been trying to secure new content deals and even threatened to quit last year. He said in a blog post, that Hulu is looking to secure 1 million Hulu Plus subscribers and $500 million this year.

Of course some may argue that Hulu should be looking for new content rather than just renewing what they already have.

Dish Could Be Forced To Dish Out Again

Matt — Wed, 04 May 2011 14:20:15 +0000

Despite their very recent and very public $500m settlement at the hands of TiVo over feature and technology patent disputes, the Dish Network could be looking at another big payout, after Starz and Disney have both taken offence to a promotion recently run by the satellite TV service.

EchoStar-owned Dish, who are currently celebrating 30 years of business, and as part of this occasion, offered a selection of Starz channels to its customers as a free 12-month promotional package. This has prompted the movie network to file a lawsuit against Dish, claiming that it is a ‘violation’ of their existing deal, and that they were not .

Disney’s case for suing Dish is separate and more low-key, but the upcoming New York federal court battle is based on the fact that some of the movies on Starz are Disney movies. The problem is that offering them to customers for free is against their own arrangement with Starz, who can only show the Disney flicks if Starz is a premium service, which it is now not because of Dish’s unexpected gesture to its customers.

The official lawsuit filing from Starz claimed that Dish had violated their prior agreement. The filing, made to a Colorado district court, read:-

“On or around February 1, 2011, Dish began providing virtually all of its subscribers with free access to seven different STARZ channels and one ENCORE channel. In blatant violation of section 5(c) of the Dish Agreement, Dish told consumers that it was giving them these channels ‘for free’. Specifically, in a communication that, on information and belief, went to virtually all of Dish’s subscribers, Dish stated that ‘Starz premium movie channels have been added to your account, free for the next 12 months. To get your free Starz, you don’t need to do a thing—no commitments, no requirements and the offer will be reflected on your monthly billing statement as ‘Starz – Free 12 mo”.”

With the Dish Network on the defence in two headline-hitting lawsuits in the space of a week, it is probably not the way they planned to spend their 30th anniversary. Will they be able to turn their fortunes around?

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LoveFilm Cuts A Streaming Deal With Disney Films

delboy — Wed, 20 Apr 2011 08:49:46 +0000

LoveFilm has cut a deal with Disney to allow them to stream Disney film content in the UK, in an agreement that takes in both paid-for and subscription based VOD services.

This deal will add around 50 Disney titles for LoveFilm’s UK subscribers, who are going to be able to stream content via their PC’s, PlayStation 3 or other connected devices, such as compatible internet enabled TV sets.

These films are going to be available to stream at no extra charge to subscribers who pay £5.99 (US$9.75) per month or more, and include catalogue content such as Armageddon, Cocktail and Bedknobs & Broomsticks. New releases, such as Tron: Legacy, will be available to stream through LoveFilm’s pay per view VOD service.

“We’re working with partners such as LoveFilm to offer our programming to viewers in ever more flexible, easy-to-access ways, and this agreement builds on our existing DVD rental partnership to further extend the availability of our films amongst UK audiences,” Catherine Powell, Disney’s senior VP for media distribution in Europe, the Middle East and Africa, said.

Amazon who acquired LoveFilm in January and launched their own streaming service in January, claims that arround 80% of its users have streamed a video online and Amazon recently appointed a new digital technical development director, Nick James.

This Disney deal puts LoveFilm ahead of international rivals such as Netflix, which does not have a comparable, direct streaming deal in place with the Mouse House in the US. However, Netflix are still going to stream Disney content as part of their deal with pay net Starz, which has online streaming rights for content from Sony Pictures and The Walt Disney.

Disney Takes On New Musical Pilot

Kelly — Fri, 18 Feb 2011 13:57:40 +0000

2012 may or may not bring about the end of the world as the Ancient Mayans predicted, but the year could see a different kind of apocalyptic intrusion on society, after the Disney Channel announced that they are planning to continue their long line of musical movie history onto their network’s screen with new pilot order Madison High.

Said to be heavily inspired by the tween sensation of the High School Musical movie trilogy, Madison High, is a planned ‘music and dance-driven comedy’, which will feature ‘the melodramatic drama teacher’ Ms. Darbus (Alyson Reed) from High School Musical, alongside a troupe of theater students. The genre of the show has been growing in the past few years, with High School Musical also inspiring the likes of Glee and Smash.

The Disney Channel had in November put the Madison High project (said to be the network’s first-ever ‘musical comedy’) on a fast-track development course, and is already in the process of preliminary casting. Pilot production is to begin in March, while the potential launch is earmarked for early in 2012.

Disney Channel executive Gary Marsh said of the move: “High School Musical introduced the joys of musicals and musical theater to a whole new generation and kids and families. And now, with Madison High, we hope to give kids a whole new set of characters with whom to engage – along with more great original music, dance numbers and songs.”

Executive producers of the project are Bill Borden and Barry Rosenbush (High School Musical), Lester Lewis (The Office) (pilot writer), and Paul Hoen (Camp Rock 2: The Final Jam) (director). Meanwhile, original songs will be written by a 8-person team, including industry names such as Kara DioGuardi, Faye Greenberg, and Robbie Nevil.

On the acting side of the project, Alyson Reed will be joined by a new batch of ‘Disney stars’, including G Hannelius (Den Brother), Luke Benward (Minutemen) and Leah Lewis, while the remaining main cast roles will be filled in the coming months, in what Disney believe could be their most ambitious series to date. If this pilot is put through, then you can probably expect tween viewers to be listening to new songs, and many parents looking for earplugs, or a nice cave to hide in when 2012 comes around. Will Madison Highmanage to better its cheesy teen singing inspiration?

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Disney To Stream Video On Yahoo Internet TV Sets

delboy — Tue, 11 Jan 2011 15:01:38 +0000

Stories of Yahoo internet tv’s death may be a little premature as we hear plans are afoot for Disney to deliver video content to the Yahoo internet enabled TV platform.

The Walt Disney Company is looking to create widgets for the internet TV software that would allow users to stream content from the Disney Channel, ESPN, and ABC to TV sets that are connected to Yahoo via the Internet, says the Wall Street Journal.

Disney has in the past made deals similar to this, including bringing an ESPN app to XBox Live users on the Microsoft XBox 360, granting subscribers access to whatever was available on the popular ESPN3.com website.

The video content to be delivered includes live games that were broadcast on ESPN or ESPN partner networks.

The widgets that will be added to the program will propably be free to consumers who already have the internet enabled Yahoo TV service. This is great news for those who were already planning on investing in Yahoo-Internet connected TVs.

With the vast majority of consumer electronics manufacturers seeking to release their own internet enabled TV solutions, many have had difficaulties securing content to provide to end users. Disney has made it clear that they are going to embrace these devices by allowing their content to be shared for free.

In the case of the XBox 360, their ESPN application has been an enormous success. Their widgets for the Yahoo! internet enabled TV portal represent a slightly different approach, but should gain similar reception among the public.

Will other major content providers jump on the Internet Connected TV bandwagon, and offer up their own shows for free? only time will tell.

But keep in mind though that Disney had already made a big chunk of this content available through ESPN 3, that website streams highlights, live events and past events all on demand.

Yahoo have been quiet for some time, but recently announced a deal with Vestel Group to distribute Yahoo powered tv’s across Europe.

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Netflix Disney Deal Kick In The Nuts For Hulu

admin — Sat, 11 Dec 2010 16:04:34 +0000

Netflix giving rivals a bloody nose

The Netflix aquisition of more premium content this week, in the $150 to $200 million deal with Disney ABC has given rival online tv providers a wake up call. Hulu, in particular will have need to look at improving it’s line up and content value says a report in The New York Post.

Showing what a powerful force it has become, the Netflix deal signed earlier this week with Disney will shake up the existing cosy TV syndication setup. The deal gives Netflix customers (available in as little as 15 days after they air), streaming access to hundreds of premium shows that not only include Lost, Desperate Housewives and Ugly Betty. But also content from Disney Channel and ABC Family networks.

Netflix have been striking a lot of similar content deals with the likes of MGM, Lionsgate and Paramount film studios. But the fact that Disney are one of the three owners (along with NBC and News Corp) of Hulu, makes this deal all the more painful. Hulu will have to now improve its content to Hulu Plus paying customers, or even drop subscription charges all together if it wants to compete.

Netflix is now looking in pole position to dominate the massive online streaming market. Whilst other big names are looking to get in on the act, such as Amazon and Microsoft. Netflix are doing deals and adding it’s service to more hardware devices almost weekly.

Where does Hulu turn when one of its partners license their content to a major rival? Although Hulu still have the edge and can show episodes sooner, the gap is closing, and Hulu have the much greater movie choice. It is definately game on.

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Netflix Add Disney And ABC Streaming Content To Online Lineup

admin — Thu, 09 Dec 2010 11:37:27 +0000

Netflix tap into the Disney ABC archives

Netflix have enhanced their selection of streaming TV shows and movies for customers in a deal with Disney-ABC, the move showing what a serious rival they are becoming in the internet tv market.

In the deal, Netflix will get streaming rights to older seasons of top tv shows such as Grey’s Anatomy, Desperate Housewives and Lost. Disney shows and ABC Family content will also make their Netflix debut. The move follows Netflix as they have chosen to go for digital distribution and away from physical disc distribution. Netflix are quick to point out that watching tv and movies on demand is the preferred delivery method for its customers.

For Netflix, Ted Sarandos chief content officer said:- “TV content streamed from Netflix has proven to be immensely popular with our members. Adding to our existing Disney-ABC lineup with great network and cable shows, and opening up ABC Family for the first time, are important steps in creating a wide and diverse selection of content Netflix members of all ages can watch.”The company now offers a standalone streaming plan for $7.99 a month and DVD-swapping customers have seen small price increases recently.

The Netflix streaming service is making a big impression with it’s rivals, Hulu has dropped it’s subscription charge to match Netflix, and rivals Google and Apple are weighing up their next move in this increasingly competative market.

The deal which will last for a year with an option to extend is said to be worth $150-$200 million, and follows other big deals made with NBC and Warner. Netflix are also said to be offering big money to stream current shows rather than the mainly re-runs in it’s current catalogue.

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Channel 4 Announces Launch Of Film4oD Film4 VOD Service

delboy — Tue, 02 Nov 2010 22:20:19 +0000

TV network Channel 4 has announced that it has partnered with FilmFlex, the IPTV joint venture between Sony and Disney, to launch a new online video on-demand service for Film4 which will be called Film4oD and it will supply a selection of films to rent online, with a lot of them available on the same day as their DVD release. There will be over 500 films available at launch, available to rent from between 50p and £3.99.

The move is part of the UK broadcaster’s new strategy to broaden its VOD service and experiment with different payment models on the new online era.

Sarah Milton, The head of Channel 4’s VOD content, said, “It represents a different business model to our current ad-funded structure, and film lends itself well to payments.”

“Channel 4 will experiment with a variety of payment models in the coming months”, said Milton, adding, “Film4oD will provide us with good insight into the willingness of people to pay for content, and their viewing habits.”

This will help us in determining whether to launch Film4oD on other devices, such as the PlayStation3, for which it’s soon to launch 4oD.

“Initially it’ll be an online proposition, but once we understand the level of demand for the service we’ll look at other platforms and devices,” said Milton.

The broadcaster is also keeping a close eye on the social networks. “We’re definitely focused on expanding our presence on social networks, and will be looking at all options in the coming months,” she added.

Andrew Keyte, CEO of FilmFlex, said, “We believe streamed movie rental is becoming a much more satisfying choice for many movie fans. The industry has been waiting for a mainstream, mass-market and legitimate online movie service. We’ve built one that has the widest choice of new titles and is as easy to use as 4oD.”

FilmFlex carried out two years of development and consumer research to deliver the service, which allows users not only to browse by genre, title and new releases, but also watch trailers and view box office details.

To celebrate the premiere of In Bruges on the Film4 channel in November, Film4oD will host a season of crime movies under the banner ‘Partners in Crime’, featuring Kiss Kiss Bang Bang, Down Terrace and Seven.

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Google TV Cut Off By TV Networks Due To Piracy Fears?

Matt — Sat, 23 Oct 2010 16:06:15 +0000

Networks vs Google

So, that was the reason major tv networks stopped serving streams to Google TV – Piracy. It looks like this is the excuse being trotted out anyway according to ubergizmo. ABC (owned by Disney) and CBS have both confirmed what everyone already knew, that they have stopped Google TV from streaming their catch up tv websites.

Apparently the thorny issue of piracy and the fact that both companies beleived Google eas not doing enough to prevent it. Of course it could just be that the networks do not want traditional viewers watching the cheaper ads that come via streaming of course. But then that would be a cynical thing to say.

Viewers of course can already watch/copy the traditional tv show that comes in full HD on standard tv. So why would they want to copy an internet stream? If people want a copy they can browse the net and find it anyway?

Other rumors point to the major networks running scared. An internet tv service supplying more than traditional cable or satellite will fasten viewers who plan on cutting the cord. And with Google TV promising to finally merge the internet and broadcast television in a simple way.

If this scenario is true, then it’s a cynical and short sighted response that will only delay the inevitable. The news comes shortly after Hulu also blocked access for the Google os system.

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Youku Turning Into Chinese Hulu After Streaming Agreement With Disney?

Kelly — Mon, 18 Oct 2010 18:46:51 +0000

Youku Chinese Youtube or Hulu?

The biggest Chinese video site Youku, has teamed up with Disney in a deal that allows them to stream hit US TV shows such as Desperate Housewives, as internet tv booms in China.

The announcement was made by Victor Koo, the Youku CEO during a Stanford University conference in Beijing.

Almost mirroring their US inspiration, Youku have launched a subscription service (currently in beta) that will stream movies and educational videos to subscribers.

Chinese hosting sites have always been synonymous with illegal streaming, especially hit US TV shows and Hollywood movies. But the Disney deal was announced as there has been a crackdown on illegal content, with Youku deleting all dodgy uploads. Back in December, Youku secured a $40 million investment from investors to become a more professional outfit.

This will intensify as they can now show the same stuff legally and get paid for it. They are facing competition though as competitor, Ku6 Media recently struck a deal with Warner Bros and Sony Pictures to stream hundreds of movies and TV shows from this month.

Unlike Youtube, Youku shows 70% licensed content rather than uploaded videos which only account for 20% of video uploads.

Koo also said that the Chinese market is more flexible in the speed that movies appear online and the number of episodes available. “It really creates a unique market opportunity for Internet television in China,” Koo said.

That said, Youku are (like Youtube) still to make a profit, although with 230 million Chinese viewers visiting the site every month. If they cannot crack it then nobody can.

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Disney Confirms That Hulu Will Become Pay To View

admin — Fri, 05 Feb 2010 14:30:08 +0000

Rumors abound that the great Hulu is about to become a pay-to-view service and according to Disney Executive Vice President Kevin Mayer, its officially been confirmed and they will charge for viewing in the future.

Soon Hulu Is Gonna Cost Ya

He said that the currently free-to-view tv website will offer a pay service in the future of probably premium content, but gave no firm details. The good news though is that the current ad-supported format will continue, but the new service may come in the form of a monthly subscription, a pay-per-download costs or even a rent per stream option.

“I think we ultimately should and will have a hybrid approach,” said Mayer.

This follows hot on the heels of YouTube recently introding a movie rental option on their video website.

Hulu and Netflix Stream Lost and More ABC Shows

Matt — Wed, 05 Aug 2009 11:58:15 +0000

Just recently, episodes of hit tv shows like Lost and Grey’s Anatomy streams have started to show on Hulu. After the deal with Disney, ABC network shows are starting to appear. ABC shows are also coming to Netflix subscribers too.

So whats the difference between the free to view (Hulu) and the paid versions (Netflix)? In a word commercials – Hulu streams are free to view because of ads during the show, whereas the Netflix streams are commercial free to paying customers and Netflix look to have a wider selection of episodes available to watch.

Netflix ciustomers can look forward to the following streams soon:-

Lost – The first five seasons

Desperate Housewives – Season four and five

Grey’s Anatomy – Season five

Legend of the Seeker – Season one and two

With ABC now joining NBC and CBS supplying TV show streams to the Netflix vod service to compliment their thousands of movies available. It strengthens their position in a heavily filled online TV pool that needs clearing out. They are painfully aware that when the dust settles their will be only a handful of big internet tv fish.

Are You Willing To Pay For Quality? Disney Thinks So

Matt — Mon, 27 Jul 2009 14:20:15 +0000

Those cute and cuddly characters at Disney are turning all mean and nasty. Wanting to start charging for online TV.

The CEO of Walt Disney, Robert Iger revealed last week that it is developing a subscription website providing TV episodes and movies with a sweetner of games and other parathenalia to temp you to part with your cash.

More worrying, Iger has also mentioned in passing that Hulu which Disney just happens to have a big stake in, may also start a subscription service for online tv content.

Iger said at the Fortune Brainstorm: Tech conference:- “We have ample evidence both in traditional media and in new media that people are willing to pay for quality, they’re willing to pay for choice, they’re willing to pay for convenience. It’s possible that Hulu will look at monetizing as well. It may be not just selling ads.”

Already, the spectre of charging for online tv has been looming. Cable TV have already introduced a pay online tv model with “TV Everywhere”. Current subscribers are able to access cable streams across the net for no extra cost. Comcast has partnered with 23 networks at present, for a 5000 home trial to starting this summer.

However, Iger remained skeptical that TV Everywhere, is in programmers’ best interests. “We are not seeing evidence of cord-cutting, so why be part of something which isn’t happening?” he said at the conference, echoing comments he made at The Cable Show earlier this year.

Iger did not provide details on Disney’s pay Web site project, and Disney representatives declined to provide additional details on the plan.

The message that the big media companies are shouting from the rooftops is this. You have had your free online tv for long enough. Now we want bigger profits. The market everywhere else is dying on its feet, so online tv – We want some a piece of you!

Hulu now showing ABC shows online

Matt — Sun, 03 May 2009 19:18:07 +0000

Thanks to its Disney tie in, Hulu is streaming the major networks from its website. The only network missing is CBS, but then its not the biggest draw anyway.

Disney has on Thursday announced its agreement with NBC Universal, News Corporation and Providence Equity Partners. Becoming a joint venture partner and equity owner Hulu the catch up tv and video website.

Although still to be formally rubber stamped, Hulu will be showing full episodes of many Disney TV shows like Lost, Grey’s Anatomy, Desperate Housewives, Private Practice, Ugly Betty, Scrubs, Greek and General Hospital.

Disney president and CEO Bob Iger commented:- “From our landmark iTunes deal to our pioneering decision to stream ad supported shows on our ABC.com player, Disney has sought to meet the constantly evolving viewing habits of our consumers, and today’s Hulu announcement is the next important step in that ongoing journey”.

CEO of Hulu, Jason Kilar said:- “We’re honored to welcome the Disney team in our mission to help people find and enjoy the world’s premium content, when, where and how they want it.”

Under the deal Disney will become an equity partbner and have three seats on the Hulu board. All other current directors from News Corp., NBC Universal and Providence will remain on the Hulu board.

The streaming content that will be shown on Hulu under the Disney deal

Full length tv episodes of ABC hit shows like Lost and Grey’s Anatomy.

Full length tv episodes of hit ABC Family series including The Secret Life of the American Teenager and Greek.

Popular shows from ABC Daytime and SoapNet such as General Hospital” and The View.

Classic shows from the ABC library including Hope & Faith, Less Than Perfect and Commander in Chief.

Various Disney Channel shows such as Wizards of Waverly Place and “Phineas and Ferb, which can be easily accessed from a new Disney location in the channel section of Hulu

Popular library titles from the Walt Disney Studios.

Shorts including webisodes, sneak peeks and episode recaps from ABC Entertainment, ABC Family and SoapNet channels.

Now Hulu just has to sort out the thorny issue of showing tv streams in other countries than the US. Then it will explode in popularity.

Disney online TV love triangle now includes Hulu

Matt — Tue, 28 Apr 2009 17:15:52 +0000

Talk is in the air of a deal finally happening between online tv heavyweight Hulu and cutesy but all powerful Disney corp.

After being in the pot for several months, an announcement will be made within days that Disney content will be available to view on Hulu.

Once finalised the deal will see Disney TV shows including Lost currently showing on ABC and a selection of Disney movies but in return Disney are expecting a stake in Hulu and even a seat on the board!

The hold up in the deal is what content will be available and for how long type conundrums. But once announced it will be a major deal for the two giants with Disney driving more traffic to its content and securing more advertising revenue whilst Hulu get even more content on its already content rich website.

The news comes after the well publicised Disney and Youtube deal, which allows the video giant to show only previews and clips of Disney content.

Whatever happens and whenever. The face of online TV and how we watch it is slowly evolving. The networks are wary in giving too much premium content for too long as this may take viewers away from the traditional television set.

The big networks are however fully aware that it is a train that cannot be stopped. So having full control over it is where Hulu wants to be. But then so does Youtube.

Stay tuned, online tv gets more interesting every day.

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