Indie filmmakers are starting to worry losing net neutrality could spell "doomsday" for their segment of the industry. The Federal Communications Commission is currently taking comments on a proposal to allow Internet service providers to create a “fast lane” for some paying companies. If the proposal is approved, large companies like Disney will have an enormous advantage in the new digital environment.
“If certain deep-pocketed content companies are given preferential treatment over others, smaller indie streaming/curation services like VHX, Reelhouse, and Yekra could seriously suffer,” writes V Renee on No Film School.
“We could potentially see blockbusters—films heavily invested in by said content companies—being streamed in pretty HD, while indies suffer through choppy and pixelated SD. Essentially, your content could suffer being put into the slow lane of the new internet, while other content is rushing past yours in the fast lane.”
Websites ranging from Kickstarter to Netflix, Tumblr, and Reddit on Sept. 10 mounted a protest as part of “Internet Slowdown Day.” These sites support the notion that has become known as net neutrality, which stipulated “that all Web traffic should be treated the same and that Internet providers such as Comcast and Verizon shouldn’t be allowed to charge certain companies for the right to provide some content at faster rates.”
Meanwhile, this comes at a time when most films have gone digital. At the Venice Film Festival, which wrapped Sept. 6, Allan Dwan's "The Iron Mask" was the only one to screen on film.
Digital films looking for distribution can now go to Cinelicious
“It’s the newly launched distribution arm of the post-production/restoration company of the same name,” according to Film Independent.
Old Vic coming to NYC
Want to channel Kevin Spacey’s Richard III? The actor's London-based theater company will offer classes on classical theater next month.
Diavolo rebrands
L.A.'s underground dance company has rebranded. It’s new form takes center stage at the city's Greek Theatre tonight.
The weirdest 50 movies
Pick your weekend’s entertainment.
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