Universal robs Comcast premium VOD of ‘Tower Heist’

Michelle Clancy ©RapidTVNews | 13-10-2011



After feeling the (predictable) heat from theatre chain-owners in the US, Universal Pictures has ditched a plan to offer its upcoming film, “Tower Heist,” as a premium VOD (pVOD) offering.
The service was designed for Comcast customers in Atlanta and Portland, Ore., just three weeks after theatrical release.
Since the studio announced plans to offer the film for $60 at a three-week window, top theatre chains like Cinemark and National Amusements threatened to boycott the film altogether if Universal continued with its plan. The movie, widely considered to be destined for blockbusterhood, is set for opening day on 4 November. The exhibitors fretted that such a tight window would cannibalise box-office revenue.
"NATO would like to thank Universal for responding to various theatre owners' concerns and cancelling the PVOD test it was contemplating,” said National Association of Theatre Owners president and CEO John Fithian.
“They have been engaged with individual exhibitors on this test, and while it was something that many theatre owners could not ultimately support, the open and collaborative nature of the dialogue is appreciated. NATO recognises that studios need to find new models and opportunities in the home market, and looks forward to distributors and exhibitors working together for their mutual benefit."