Sony Invests in Gaia; Gaia Distributes Sony and WB Films
Sony has taken an undisclosed minority stake in Gaia Online, but The Hollywood Reporter believes that Sony is only one of many groups participating in a round of Series B financing totaling $15 million. Sony and Warner Bros. have also each signed separate agreements to distribute their library of films through the online world, allowing group viewings with avatars. "I think it has the ability to create an incremental revenue source with more potential than just solo viewing," Sony senior executive vp Sean Carey said.
"With the Gaia Cinemas, teens can now enjoy Warner Bros. movies with their friends regardless of where they are physically, (whether it's) just across town or on the other side of the country," said Andrew Mellett, senior vp VOD at Warner Bros. Digital Distribution.
Today the world launches free screenings of Sony's "Gattaca" and Warners' "The Matrix" on advertiser-supported screens. There are future plans to charge $1.99 per ticket, giving the user 24 hours to watch the movie in world. The deal will give Sony and Warner an undisclosed cut of the ticket sales and also of virtual goods that tie in to the films.
Sony and Warner will each bring 50 library titles, including "Spider-Man," "Ghost Rider," "Batman Returns" and "Ace Ventura: Pet Detective." Sony will also supply content from its TV side, including the Minisode Network, a set of condensed episodes.
The deals are long-term, but not exclusive, so Sony and Warner could easily set up additional screens in other worlds.
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