Comcast, Sony Have Horrible Idea: A VOD-Only Net

Comcast and Sony are launching a new VOD-only network on Halloween focusing on the horror genre. The venture will also include broadband and wireless components, but no linear television channel.

The ad-supported horror/thriller venture will launch Oct. 31 on VOD and the Internet, with plans calling for a wireless aspect to be added later.

The still-to-be-named initiative is the first co-venture between Comcast and Sony since the two joined with other investors last year to purchase the MGM library. More are on the way, according to a statement by Steve Mosko, president of Sony Pictures Television.

Comcast has been looking for ways to bolster its VOD offerings to attract cable customers willing to purchase high-end packages, and retain current ones.

The network is expected to target the 18-to-34 demo.

"This is the first channel of its kind devoted solely to serving this expanding audience, and a great advertising opportunity to reach this demographic," said Diane Robina, president of emerging networks at Comcast, in a statement.

Movies and television shows will be available via VOD. The broadband component is not expected to include full-length content, but outtakes, behind-the-scenes footage, and other offerings that help create a fan community for the horror genre. Similarly, the wireless offering is expected to include ringtones and sound effects.

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