IFC's Theatrical Releases, Broadening Audience for Indie Film
IFC Companies announced today it has reached an agreement with DIRECTV, Inc. enabling the more than 11.4 million customers of the digital satellite television service to access the independent film titles from IFC Films. The special agreement, announced today by Gregg Hill, EVP, Affiliate Sales and Marketing for IFC Companies, is in keeping with IFC's mission to broaden the audience for independent films. Under the agreement, DIRECTV may select specific film titles each month from the IFC Films theatrical slate and offer them to their subscribers. IFC's indie hits Y Tu Mama Tambien and Happy Accidents are the first two films offered through the agreement.
"IFC is thrilled to be teaming with DIRECTV to offer their subscribers our highly acclaimed slate of films," stated Hill. "As the popularity of independent film has grown, so has the demand. Today's announcement ensures the millions of DIRECTV users nationwide will now have the ability to access the popular and critically acclaimed independent films they desire. This agreement showcases the great commitment DIRECTV has in addressing the programming needs of its viewers and will be an added value to the television service's revenue stream."
Michael Thornton, senior vice president, Programming Acquisition, DIRECTV, added: "DIRECTV is always looking to bring our customers the best programming choices possible. With the addition of IFC's diverse and unique slate of films DIRECTV will now be able to deliver even more robust programming to our customers nationwide.
About IFC Companies
IFC Companies has created a unique end-to-end business model and brand that focuses on developing and nurturing talent, and maximizing the value of independent film. With a television network, a film distribution and production unit, and a VOD service, IFC Companies represents the future of independent film. IFC Companies uses its unique position to broaden the independent film audience nationwide and to expand the opportunities for independent filmmakers. IFC Companies is a division of Rainbow Media Holdings LLC.
IFC Companies is made up of:
IFC Television, the first and most widely distributed channel dedicated to independent film 24 hours a day, uncut and commercial-free.
IFC Entertainment, which includes IFC Films, a theatrical film distribution company; IFC Productions, a feature film production company; and InDigEnt, an initiative that helps established filmmakers shoot productions on digital video.
IFC Digital Media, harnesses the power of digital technology to provide audiences with active entertainment, informational, and transactional experiences. It is currently focused on packaging, delivering, and marketing video-on-demand services and broadband content.
About DIRECTV
DIRECTV is the nation's leading digital multichannel television service provider with more than 11.4 million customers. DIRECTV and the Cyclone Design logo, are registered trademarks of DIRECTV Inc., a unit of Hughes Electronics Corporation. HUGHES is the world's leading provider of digital satellite television entertainment, broadband services, satellite-based private business networks, and global video and data broadcasting. The earnings of HUGHES, a unit of General Motors Corporation, are used to calculate the earnings attributable to the General Motors Class H common stock (NYSE: GMH). Visit DIRECTV on the World Wide Web at DIRECTV.com.