The past few years have seen VOD rise as viable revenue stream for some independent, with some indie distributors frequently launching first with a VOD-only release before a limited theatrical release some time later. Yesterday “CBGB,” the film chronicling the origins of the famed New York City club, became the latest film to adopt that release strategy.
Deadline reported that satellite provider DirecTV won the exclusive month-long rights to show the period film on its own VOD platform, DirecTV Cinema. Starring Alan Rickman as the eccentric owner of the Lower East Side club, the film follows him as, out of economic necessity, he transitions CBGB from its “country, bluegrass and blues” roots to being a platform for punk and New Wave bands in the 70s. Along the way are plenty of appearances from famous musicians played by actors that include Malin Akerman (as Debbie Harry), Kyle Gallner (as Lou Reed) and Joel David Moore (as Joey Ramone). Also appearing in the film as Cheetah Chrome is Rickman’s fellow “Harry Potter” alum Rupert Grint who appears in the newest clip from the film (courtesy of MTV). Be warned though, unless your boss is cool with famous butts this clip isn’t safe for work.
Check out the clip below and catch “CBGB” when it hits DirecTV cinema next week on September 5th and in limited theaters on October 11th. And just a reminder, you can watch Diablo Cody‘s “Paradise” on the network right now as well.
