(2 November 2005 2:00 pm)

MUMBAI: Interactive Television Networks (ITVN) which deals with Internet Protocol Television (IPTV) has created an independent film network. This will launch next month.

The Indie Film Theater will offer its entire catalogue of titles to subscribers on a pay-per-view basis. Unlike the current generation of download services, ITVN's Indie Film Theater, as is the case with all of ITVN's networks, delivers instant real-time streaming of content to the home television without the need for a PC.

ITVN CEO Charles Prast says, "ITVN's Indie Film Theater delivers award-winning independent and student films to our customers. We are committed to offering the best in entertainment and are proud to now offer hundreds of
excellent films that fall outside of the studio system and cannot be found on other networks."

Initial content that wil be offered will include the library from World Cinema Online. This offers a selection of the finest independent, foreign language, cult and classic films from around the world. ITVN's Indie Film Theater is a Pay-Per-View service that will allow users to view difficult to find, award-winning films at attractive prices. Most films will cost $2.95 for 72 hours of unlimited viewing.

World Cinema Online co-CEO Marcus cherry says, "At World Cinema Online we're passionate about bringing independent and international films to larger audiences. ITVN is at the forefront of the on-demand entertainment revolution and we are delighted to combine our films with their technology. This partnership is an integral part of our strategy to use broadband technologies to bring award-winning independent films to the worldwide audiences they deserve."

ITVN points out that IPTV has many advantages, such as virtually limitless programming and on-demand content because only channels selected by consumers are delivered over home broadband networks. All content-including HDTV-can be distributed on a subscription or pay-per-view basis with content promotion integrated into the user experience. IPTV also offers interactivity for the customer, allowing two-way communication with services comparable to the Web, creating a better environment for users, programmers and advertisers.