(12 May 2009 3:10 pm)

MUMBAI: MGM Worldwide Television, a division of Metro-Goldwyn Mayer (MGM) Studios Inc, has signed a five-year movie licensing deal with Showtime Arabia, the pay-TV network in the Middle East and North Africa (MENA) region.

The deal also covers MGM Worldwide TV’s video-on-demand (VoD) offering which will be made available on Showtime Arabia’s Show On Demand.

The licensing agreement marks MGM's first VoD offer for the region and brings MGM's films to Showtime customers throughout the Middle East.

"As the leading Pay TV provider throughout the region, Showtime Arabia is a great partner for MGM," said MGM EVP Worldwide Television Chris Ottinger. "We are pleased to collaborate with Showtime Arabia in bringing MGM's theatrical blockbusters to the movie fans throughout the Middle East and believe that the 'Show On Demand' platform will be a tremendous asset in gaining exposure for MGM's films and growing our global VoD business model.”

"MGM's brand and its diverse selection of popular feature films will enrich our customers’ experience," said Showtime Arabia president and CEO Marc-Antoine d'Halluin. "We're proud to add MGM's popular film franchises to Showtime's Pay TV and VoD services and look forward to exploring other opportunities with the studio."

The deal includes MGM titles like James Bond franchise hits Casino Royale and Quantum of Solace; Rocky franchise Rocky Balboa; political thriller Lions for Lambs and Pink Panther 2.

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