In a first for the Australian Pay TV industry, Columbia TriStar and Optus will deliver near-video-on-demand (NVOD) movies for the Optus iTV commercial trial. Optus trialists can enjoy movies from this leading Hollywood studio from December 1.

Initially 50 NVOD channels will offer movie titles at 15 and 30 minute repeat intervals. The current release Columbia titles are included in a package of more than 40 features, from a range of studios, to be shown during the trial.

Martin Dalgleish, Acting Managing Director, Optus Consumer & Multimedia said Columbia Tri Star's participation in the trial is invaluable.

"Our research has shown that NVOD is one of the greatest drivers of appeal for the Optus iTV trial service. So it is essential that we offer compelling and wide-appealing content. Columbia TriStar, along with several other major studios participating in the trial, has made this possible," Mr Dalgleish said.

"The quality and range of titles mean greater choice and expands the entertainment value of the service. Trial customers can now choose not only from the extensive program lineup, but from a range of films at a time convenient to them. Last week more than 90 per cent of trialists caught an NVOD movie."

Jack Ford, CEO of Columbia TriStar said he is pleased to be testing another channel to market for movies after local video release.

"This is ground breaking stuff and we are pleased to be a part of it. Optus is giving TV viewers a taste of the future today," Mr Ford said.

Premier current releases from Columbia TriStar include Snatch, Charlie's Angels, Vertical Limit, Held Up, Crouching Tiger and Almost Famous. The deal also includes a number of classic Columbia features never seen before on the Optus platform including Close Encounters of the Third Kind (special edition) and Lawrence of Arabia.

For the duration of the commercial trial, NVOD is free and unlimited.*

In another Pay TV first, the digital service includes the capacity for trialists to view the features in true 16 x 9 on widescreen television sets. With appropriate equipment, sound is stereo and Dolby Pro logic.

For more media information:

Melissa Favero
Optus Public Affairs
Phone: 02 9342 5030

*Excluding Adult Features, Pay Per View including Main Event, Pay Per Period, and other content specifically advised to customers.

Note to editors: Images from movie titles available on request.