The Independent Film Channel (IFC) announced today it has signed a digital rights distribution agreement with NXTV, a leading provider of digital entertainment and information services to the hospitality industry. NXTV will make IFC On Demand, an on-demand service featuring leading independent film titles, available in four- and five-star hotel rooms, including the Peninsula Beverly Hills and the Four Seasons Los Angeles, beginning May 1, 2003. The agreement was one of three hospitality industry distribution deals announced today by IFC.
Gregg Hill, Executive Vice President, Affiliate Sales and Marketing, IFC, said: "Gaining distribution in hotel rooms is important to us because it represents a great opportunity for consumers to sample our service. As the popularity of independent films has grown in theaters, so has demand and interest on the part of television viewers. Today's announcement ensures that large numbers of travelers will have access to the independent films they desire, as we expand our 'National Art House' beyond the home and into hotel rooms. Guests in the four- and five-star hotel rooms served by NXTV are a terrific target audience for IFC On Demand and digital cable in general."
Richard Jenkins, VP Marketing and Programming, NXTV, said: "IFC On Demand offers a sensational lineup of independent films that we believe will attract significant buy rates and help boost overall hotel guest satisfaction."
IFC on Demand offers a collection of acclaimed theatrical films from IFC Films, providing the public with a "National Art House" that enables them to see independent films to which they otherwise might not have access. Recent and upcoming titles featured on the service include the foreign language hit, Y Tu Mama Tambien and critically acclaimed Happy Accidents, starring Marisa Tomei and Vincent D'Onofrio, along with Business of Strangers, Spring Forward, Big Bad Love, Go Tigers!, Gangster No. 1, Keep The River On Your Right, The King Is Alive, Thomas In Love and Our Song.
About NXTV
The NXTV system is a 100% digital IP-based complete end-to-end solution including a proprietary digital set-top-box designed specifically for the hospitality environment, an advanced user interface called the "Interactive Program Guide" (IPG) and fully integrated Web-based transaction and system management software called NXTVue that allows dynamic, remote monitoring and maintenance of the system.
Using a remote control, gamepad, and wireless keyboard, hotel guests can chose from digital movies which include PVR functionality such as pause, rewind, fast-forward, bookmarks and on-demand trailers. Guest can also access interactive video games, laptop, TV and wireless Internet access. The IPG also provides hotel services via a hotel branded portal, which offers information and video support for internal Hotel or F&B promotions, and external hotel group cross-marketing initiatives.
NXTV has successfully deployed its technology at a number of award-winning hotels throughout the country.
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, Inc. 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.