Audio Video News

Two cable systems are trying new methods of movie distribution in an attempt to achieve same-day parity--or better--with DVD release and on-air broadcast dates.

Comcast will release hit movies via video-on-demand on the same day they hit DVD. Affected titles include Shoot Em Up, Mr. Woodcock, Invasion, The Brave One, Rendition, No Reservations, and Michael Clayton. All will be available in HD.

For TV series, Comcast will go one better. Some series will make their debuts on VOD a week before they air on conventional networks. They will include The Tudors, Flavor of Love, and The Wire. The first two will also be available in HD. See press release.

Meanwhile, Cablevision iO digital cable subscribers will have a new way of ordering movies: Popcorn DVDs on Demand. Select titles will be available for VOD consumption on the same date the DVDs arrive in stores. Order through the set-top box and you can not only enjoy the movie immediately--you can also have the DVD shipped at the same time.

Affected titles include The Bourne Ultimatum, The Kingdom, Eastern Promises, and Sydney White. New releases will cost $19.95 plus shipping while back catalogue will be $9.95-15.95. See Cablevision and Popcorn press releases.