Monsters HD, the first-ever and only 24-hour channel exclusively devoted to the horror and creature feature category, announced the acquisition of 44 classic and contemporary horror titles from Warner Bros. Domestic Cable Distribution that will air in HD, beginning 2005. Among the titles is the recently restored version of the original 1933 KING KONG as well as RKOs SON OF KONG and MIGHTY JOE YOUNG. Monsters HD is one of 10 high-definition core channels available through VOOM HD Networks.
The multi-year licensing deal adds to Monsters HDs specialty library of horror and creature features, the largest collection amassed for television to date. All the films, which have been digitally restored, will be shown uncut, uninterrupted and in high-definition. Many of the titles will be broadcast in hi-def on TV for the first time.
Last August, VOOM HD announced its distribution agreement with Echostar Communications to carry 10 of the HD channels on its Dish Network. Since then, it has gone on to produce original HD content for a wide variety of consumer interests ranging from a one-of-a-kind live memorabilia auction on Gallery HD to delivering the world of fashion on ULTRA HD. Most recently, VOOM HD solidified a co-production deal with Singapore.
Titles anchoring the package include the Stephen King thrillers SALEM'S LOT, RETURN TO SALEM'S LOT and CHILDREN OF THE CORN and Clive Barkers HELLRAISER, HELLBOUND: HELLRAISER 2 and NIGHTBREED. In addition, the original version of KING KONG, which hit theatres in 1933, will be broadcast in high-definition for the first time on Monsters HD. Also included are: Tobe Hooper's POLTERGEIST and Larry Cohen's Monster Baby Trilogy IT'S ALIVE, IT LIVES AGAIN and IT'S ALIVE 3: ISLAND OF THE ALIVE.
In addition, the agreement gives the channel exclusive HD broadcast rights to prehistoric horror films from stop-motion/special effects artists and pioneers like Willis O'Brien, Ray Harryhausen and Jim Danforth. Features set to air on Monsters HD include OBriens BLACK SCORPION and GIANT BEHEMOTH; Harryhausens THE BEAST FROM 20,000 FATHOMS, ONE MILLION YEARS B.C. and CLASH OF THE TITANS; and Danforths WHEN DINOSAURS RULED THE EARTH.
David Sehring, svp/gm, Monsters HD, noted, While the horror genre continues to thrive and fuel the boxoffice with big screen remakes like PETER JACKSON'S KING KONG, this acquisition reflects our commitment as TV's number one destination for the monster movie fan. We have amassed the finest and widest variety of creature features and horror thrillers that Hollywood and the world has to offer. These Warner Bros. titles will look stunning and terrifying in Hi-Definition!
He added, Watching horror films in HD really adds an exciting edge to the movie watching experience that will rattle the nerves of even the most ardent horror film fanatic. The quality of color, clarity, sound and amazing sensory overload is truly impressive and gives you access to a front row theatre seat in your own living room.
Eric Frankel, president, Warner Bros. Domestic Cable Distribution said, We are pleased to become a major supplier to Monsters HD and believe that these films are perfectly suited for this exciting new network and are sure that they will scare up viewers.
Michael Russo, svp, Warner Bros. Domestic Cable Distribution said, It is especially gratifying that these films will be able to be enjoyed in a definition and detail like never before by both fans of these films and viewers who will see them for the very first time. We hope this is the beginning of a very mutually beneficial relationship.
Monsters HD launched in October 2003. For more information, log on to www.monstershd.com.
The VOOM HD Networks is the largest suite of high-definition channels available anywhere, produced exclusively in high definition for distribution in the U.S. through satellite and cable operators. The VOOM HD Networks carry programming in categories as diverse as sports, movies, fashion, music and art. The VOOM HD Networks are available nationally on Echostars DISH Network. The VOOM HD Networks were developed by Rainbow Media.
Warner Bros. Domestic Cable Distribution is the leading supplier of programming to the pay television and basic cable marketplaces. WBDCD licenses, markets and distributes top quality programming to a dozen broadcast networks, 30 pay TV, more than 100 basic channels and numerous HD networks.
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Animation World Network
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