Netflix to Stream Movies from Paramount, Lionsgate, MGM
Posted by Jesse Ward on Thursday, August 12, 2010 · 
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Netflix has signed a new, five-year deal with pay-TV channel Epix for the exclusive online streaming rights to new releases from Paramount, Lionsgate and Metro-Goldwyn-Mayer (MGM) starting 90 days after the content debuts on Epix and other premium-pay TV and on-demand channels.
The agreement, worth $1 billion to Epix in licensing fees over the course of the contract, will commence September 1.
With numerous content and technology partnerships, Netflix is a formidable force in the video-on-demand (VoD) marketplace, often compared to pay-TV channel HBO in terms of its importance.
Netflix already has deals in place with pay-channel Starz for movies from Disney and Sony Pictures, and an exclusive agreement with Relativity Media. The deal with Epix is a big boost to Netflix’s VoD “Watch Instantly” offerings, and furthers the company’s goal to convert rent-by-mail customers to online streaming users. Netflix software is now embedded in more than a dozen set-top boxes such as Microsoft, Panasonic, Sharp, LG, Samsung, Sony, Roku and TiVo.
Studios, Cable Companies Partner to Promote VoD
Posted by Jesse Ward on Monday, March 22, 2010 · ·
Eight Hollywood studios and eight cable companies have joined forces for a $30 million advertising campaign during the next three months to promote awareness of movies available on cable video on demand (VoD). This is the first time rival studios have come together to push consumers to rent more movies through their cable boxes.
The TV, print and online ad campaign will feature the theme “The Video Store Just Moved In” and will promote the ease of ordering movies at home, via the click of a remote. It also includes a dedicated Web site at CableVideoStore.com and a Movies on Demand logo. Read more