13 Feb Lionsgate Expediting PVOD Window for 2023 Theatrical Slate [Media Play News]
BY ERIK GRUENWEDEL
February 13, 2023 | Lionsgate is looking at shortening the PVOD window for at least some of its 2023 theatrical movies, executives with the Santa Monica, Calif.-based studio-distributor hinted on the company’s Feb. 9 fiscal call.
Instead of waiting 45 days after their box office debut for retail distribution, Lionsgate may move up by as much as half some of its 13 theatrical films’ digital premium VOD rent ($19.99) and premium electronic sellthrough ($24.99) release.
Executives pointed to the airplane hostage drama Plane, co-starring Gerard Butler and Mike Colter, which was released on premium digital channels Feb. 3 — just 21 days after the thriller’s Jan. 13 box office bow. Plane has generated $43 million globally, including $30.7 million across North American screens.
“Plane got this year’s film slate off to a great start,” CEO Jon Feltheimer said on the call. “It outperformed expectations at the domestic box office and in nearly every one of our international territories. And by pivoting to a PVOD release date three weeks after its theatrical release, we’re creating an outsized contributor that illustrates our ability to create bespoke business models, new and more efficient marketing approaches, and alternative distribution strategies.”