Calls for exhibition window decrease

A leading French video publisher on DVD association has called for the theatrical window to be shortened.

SEVN says that a reduction should be "negotiated with rights holders". Currently, an exclusivity window of six months before films can be published on DVD is provided for by the 'chronologie des medias' law.

The association says that the measure is needed if the industry is to effectively tackle piracy and develop legal distribution systems. It came to this conclusion after carrying out a consultation of its members.

"This modernisation of the chronologie des médias is essential for the preservation of a dynamic DVD publishing sector, spearhead of the legal offer, and more generally of the health of the film industry," DVD Intelligence quotes SEVN as saying.

A change in the law will allow the industry to adapt to changes in modes of consumption and to combat piracy more effectively. Around 80 per cent of total film revenues are achieved after four weeks at the box office, presently.