Amazon Goes to the Movies

In a move that provides some revenue stream diversification, e-tailing giant Amazon.com has launched an ad-backed, free-to-the-consumer
service that provides moviegoers with recommendations, theater showtimes and
candid ratings by ordinary viewers.


Amazon said it will work with major movie studios to help promote new films
from the get-go. Cross-selling opportunities include movie-related books and
music CDs.


The new tab was created in collaboration with IMDb.com, a database of
information on movies. Amazon will offer personalized recommendations of
specific films based on a customer’s past purchase history in the same way it
has been recommending specific books, CDs, and videos to its customers over
the years.


Amazon said the new service, called simply “In Theaters,” will feature personalized movie theater
showtimes based on the consumer’s ZIP code.


Consumers can also get movie showtimes e-mailed to them once a week.


Amazon is currently partnering with Touchstone Pictures to promote Pearl
Harbor. And the company reportedly signed a promotion deal with Buena Vista
Pictures Marketing, although financial specifics were not disclosed.


“In Theaters” will be listed as a tab, along with “books,” “music” and
“videos” on the Amazon home page.


“Amazon.com’s new In Theaters service opens up a highly targeted and
efficient new online marketing channel for theatrical releases,” said Jeff
Bezos, CEO of Amazon.com. “We’re using our advanced technology to help people
pick the perfect movie for them.”

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