• May 29, 2009

The Dimension Horror Channel has launched on YouTube to promote three forthcoming horror movies: "Halloween 2," "Piranha," and "Hell Raiser." The channel aims to provide fans with one place to engage with content and discover new trailers. Rob Zombie, writer and director, provides insight into the making of "Halloween 2," scheduled for an August release in theaters.

A 300 x 100 home page ad unit promotes the Rob Zombie YouTube "friending" feature, giving fans access to exclusive content. This is the first time an advertiser has used the "friending" feature on YouTube to promote a movie. While studios typically begin promoting movies about six week prior to release, The Weinstein Company began more than eight weeks prior to the release of "Halloween 2." The goal is to build online momentum and buzz for films, to increase awareness and drive up ticket sales. -- Laurie Sullivan