DALLAS - HDNet (www.hd.net), the 1080i all-high definition network, has announced a long-term agreement to license the television rights to 58 feature films from New Line Television. The films will appear on the HDNet and HD Movies networks, which are carried via satellite and cable.
As part of the deal, HDNet will share the network window for the titles "15 Minutes" starring Robert De Niro and Ed Burns, "The Astronaut's Wife" starring Johnny Depp, "Blade 2: Bloodhunt" starring Wesley Snipes, "Blow" with Johnny Depp and Charlize Theron, "Detroit Rock City," "Knockaround Guys" starring Vin Diesel, "Life as a House" starring Kevin Kline, "Lost Souls" with Winona Ryder, "Price of Glory" starring Jimmy Smits and "Simone" starring Al Pacino.
In addition, HDNet has licensed 48 library titles from New Line, including "8 Seconds," "Bones," "Excessive Force," "Glengarry Glen Ross," "Mortal Kombat," the "Nightmare on Elm Street" series, and "Seven."
"We are excited to partner with New Line Television, and look forward to doing much more together as we continue to invest in great content for HDNet and HDNet Movies," says HDNet co-founder and president Mark Cuban.
David Spiegelman, New Line Television's senior executive VP, domestic TV distribution and marketing adds, "If you want to be on the cutting edge of high definition distribution, then aligning with a company like HDNet makes all the sense in the world. As leaders in the category, this was the perfect opportunity for New Line to help continue the growth of the high def universe."
Earlier this month, HDNet began broadcasting a 10-part series celebrating the career of legendary jazz pianist Chick Corea. Shows were recorded at New York's City's Blue Note and include guest performances by Bobby McFerrin, Bud Powell Band, Gary Burton Akoustic Band and Gonzalo Rubalcaba. The programs will air every Thursday for 10 weeks.