Movies for Internet Video-On-Demand (VOD) Service
Challenges: (i) Find the right top European independent films suitable for exhibition on a pioneering new Internet VOD movie service in USA; (ii) Unravel the complex rights chain; (iii) Overcome suppliers' concerns about Internet, VOD (pay-per-download), security and commercial aspects; (iv) Explain, negotiate and close trial deals, in an environment where, in many countries in Europe, VOD deals were not common for TV (let alone for Internet delivery); (v) Select not only good films but good European partners for the service with an eye to ongoing future relationships for the service.
Rights Stuff Services:
- Researched European films, prepared target content lists, assessed local top-quality hits (high box office or with critical acclaim) suitable for target audience on the Internet
- Traced source of European rights i.e. first to the right European producer or distributor, then to assess if they also handled USA region (often not)
- Confirmed if they could negotiate for VOD rights and for specifically Internet (again, often not the same people!)
- Addressed and liaised regarding other practical rights issues outside the four corners of the contract: (e.g. music performing rights, regulatory, security issues)
- Made introductions, pitched service, addressed barriers and supplier concerns, negotiated and closed trial deals
- Liaised between L.A. head office and Europe; deal facilitation through from selection of titles to ensuring titles-delivery
Rights Stuff Role/Visibility: Front lines
