Oslo, Norway—Apr 20, 2010
Agreement reached between Sony Pictures Releasing International and Film & Kino
Film & Kino, the Norwegian cinema organization, announced today that it has reached a non-exclusive agreement with Sony Pictures Releasing International (“SPRI”), the international motion picture distribution arm of Sony Pictures Entertainment, paving the way for the world’s first complete national rollout of digital cinema.
Under this agreement, subject to booking terms, SPRI will supply its theatrical content in digital format to Norwegian exhibitors outfitted by Film & Kino with DCI-compliant digital projection systems, and will make certain financial contributions to Film & Kino for a limited time to promote digital cinema deployment in Norway.
“We are very happy with the agreement with SPRI and would like to thank Sony Pictures for their support to help make digital cinema a reality in Norway,” said Jorgen Stensland, Director of Consultants at Film & Kino.
Digital Cinema will enable both exhibitors and distributors to realize substantial benefits, including higher quality, non-degradable prints and better protection against piracy. Equally important, digital cinema expands the type of programming opportunities available to audiences, such as digital 3D, alternative content, and live satellite events, which traditional 35mm film projectors could not deliver.
The cost of this rollout will be shared by distributors, cinemas, and Film & Kino. The rollout will begin immediately, as all necessary agreements are now in place regarding financing and system installation and integration.
“This is a great success for the Film & Kino team, Norway, and its movie-going audience,” said acting director Roar Svartberg of Film & Kino. “We have managed to make deals with the six major Hollywood studios, and at the same time, providing exhibitors with innovative digital technologies, while respecting the traditional relationships between exhibitors and distributors.”
“Digital cinema is an important part of our overall strategy to enhance the theatrical experience for consumers all around the world,” said Mark Zucker, President, Sony Pictures Releasing International Corporation. “We look forward to a positive working relationship with Film & Kino and welcome them as a partner in achieving that overall strategy.”
