Pay-TV giant Sky has signed a multi-year deal with Entertainment Film Distributors, the UK’s leading independent film distribution company, securing exclusive rights to some of the biggest independent films.
The deal means customers whose Sky packages include the broadcasters movie channels will be able to enjoy exclusive access to hit films including Silver Linings Playbook in HD.
The deal is the latest the broadcaster has signed with studios and distributors as it seeks to lock rivals Lovefilm and Netflix out of the premium end of the movie market.
To counter the challenge from new internet streaming providers, Sky last year launched NOW TV which offers subscription free access to its movie content via a range of devices, including games consoles and YouView.
The Entertainment Film Distributors deal gives Sky first subscription pay TV and pay-per-view windows for a raft of titles, including The Master, Silver Linings Playbook, Beautiful Creatures and The Host, alongside a wide range of classic titles.
Ian Lewis, Director of Sky Movies, commented: “This new deal means that Sky Movies customers can continue to look forward to even more of the biggest films, enjoying them on demand on their Sky+HD set-top box and even taking the movies with them on their smartphone or mobile tablet.
“We’re delighted to be extending our relationship with Entertainment Film Distributors, who have been great partners for many years. As a result of the partnership, we’re able to offer Sky Movies customers exclusive subscription access to EFD’s hit movies such as Silver Linings Playbook, alongside a great selection of their classic titles.”
Nigel Green, Joint Managing Director of Entertainment Film Distributors, added: “Having worked with Sky for nearly twenty years, we value their long-standing expertise in providing their customers with the best possible movie-viewing experience, helping film fans get the most out of our great selection of movies.”