AFI BLOG: Media and Technology

The Wall Street Journal
Cable and satellite-TV operators gave an icy reception to plans by three movie companies for the launch of a new pay-television channel next year, indicating that the new channel may have a tough time angling its way into homes.
Viacom Inc.’s Paramount Pictures, Metro-Goldwyn-Mayer Studios Inc. and Lions Gate Entertainment Corp. Sunday announced [...]

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The Wall Street Journal
Viacom, Lionsgate, MGM Set Venture For Fall of 2009
Pay-TV channels HBO, Showtime and Starz are about to get a new competitor in their lucrative and insular world.
Viacom Inc., Metro-Goldwyn-Mayer Studios Inc. and Lions Gate Entertainment Corp. Sunday announced a new joint venture to launch a premium channel, scheduled to debut in the [...]

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MGM pacts on Abu Dhabi deal - Variety
Lion leaps on $1 bil project
MGM has inked a massive deal with Abu Dhabi-based real estate developer Sorouh and Jordanian animation shingle Rubicon to create an entertainment destination using MGM and Rubicon franchises.
Deal is the latest in a string of pacts between Hollywood studios and business interests in [...]

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Microsoft Lands Deals With Movie, TV Titans - The Wall Street Journal
Microsoft Corp. will get to use movies and television programming from several large entertainment companies under new deals that may help it better compete with Apple Inc.’s iTunes online service and rivals such as software maker Adobe Systems Inc.
Microsoft said it reached agreements with [...]

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