ALL THINGS SONY 

Sony Pictures Animation and Platinum Studios, Inc. to Develop Animated Feature

CULVER CITY, Calif., Feb. 4 -- Sony Pictures Animation has set a deal with Platinum Studios, Inc. (OTC:PDOS) (BULLETIN BOARD: PDOS) , an entertainment company that controls an international library of comic book characters which it adapts, produces and licenses for all forms of media, to develop an animated feature, it was announced today by Bob Osher, president of Sony Pictures Digital Productions and Hannah Minghella, president of production for Sony Pictures Animation.
 

Platinum Studios, which controls an international library of comics and graphic novel content with over 5,600 characters, brings comic book projects to feature film and television. This marks another collaboration between Sony and Platinum Studios CEO Scott Mitchell Rosenberg, following the billion dollar franchise, "Men In Black," which is one of the most successful comic book to film adaptations of all time.
 

"I have known and respected Scott Rosenberg for many years as a great resource of characters, stories and ideas," said Bob Osher. "We're looking forward to working with him and Platinum Studios to develop a feature from their library of stories and characters."
 

"It is great to be working with Bob and Sony again," said Rosenberg. "And Hannah has the perfect energy and creative tenacity to drive us into a fantastic feature world."
 

Platinum Studios' film and TV division has various other properties in development at major film studios, including "Atlantis Rising" at DreamWorks with Kurtzman/Orci ("Transformers") set to produce, "Cowboys and Aliens" also at Dreamworks with Kurtzman/Orci partnering with Universal Pictures and Imagine Entertainment, and "Unique" at Walt Disney Pictures and "Dead of Night" with Hyde Park Entertainment with Brandon Routh ("Superman Returns") starring and Kevin Munroe (2007's "TMNT") directing. Gale Anne Hurd's Valhalla Motion Pictures and Platinum Studios are currently co-developing feature films based on the soon-to-be-published action thriller graphic novel Final Orbit and Top Cow's Magdalena.
 

Sony Pictures Animation (SPA) most recently produced "Open Season," "Surf's Up," and "Open Season 2." Upcoming projects for SPA include, "Cloudy With a Chance of Meatballs," "Hotel Transylvania" and "The Smurfs." The company recently announced a first-look deal with The Gotham Group as SPA continues to build its slate of upcoming productions.
 

About Sony Pictures Animation:
 

Sony Pictures Animation exemplifies the next generation of CGI storytelling to produce a variety of animated entertainment for audiences around the world. Sony Pictures Animation is developing a full slate of films with "Cloudy With A Chance Of Meatballs" now in production. Its second film, "Surf's Up," was nominated for an Academy Award(R) for Best Animated Feature and won two Annie Awards. Its first film, "Open Season," was a box office success and the #2 DVD title of the year for Sony Pictures Home Entertainment (SPHE) in 2007. A sequel, "Open Season 2," was just released by SPHE on January 27. Sony Pictures Animation is an operating unit of Sony Pictures Digital Productions.
 

About Platinum Studios, Inc. (http://www.platinumstudios.com/)
 

Platinum Studios (OTCBB:PDOS) is an entertainment company that controls an international library of comic book characters from all over the world, which it adapts, produces and licenses for all forms of media including print, film, tv, online, mobile/wireless, gaming, and merchandising. Platinum Studios' library contains more than 5,600 characters spanning a full range of genres and styles, and also includes properties such as Drunk Duck (www.DrunkDuck.com), the industry's preeminent webcomics community and Wowio (www.wowio.com), the world's leading e-book distributor. Working with leading companies in the entertainment and new media sectors, Platinum believes it is well positioned to emerge as one of the front-runners in the creation of new content across all media platforms.
 

Platinum Studios Safe Harbor Statement
 

Matters discussed in this press release contain forward-looking statements within the meaning of the Private Securities Litigation Reform Act of 1995. When used in this press release, the words "anticipate," "believe," "estimate," "may," "intend," "expect" and similar expressions identify such forward-looking statements. Although expected, actual results, performance or achievements could differ materially from those contemplated, expressed or implied by the forward-looking statements contained herein. These forward-looking statements are based largely on the expectations of Platinum Studios and are subject to a number of risks and uncertainties. These include, but are not limited to, risks and uncertainties associated with: the impact of economic, competitive and other factors affecting Platinum Studios and its operations; its markets, products, and distributor performance, the impact on the national and local economies resulting from terrorist actions, and U.S. actions subsequently, and other factors detailed in reports filed by Platinum Studios with the SEC.
 

Source: Sony Pictures Animation

Sony Rolls Out World's Smallest Full HD Camcorder Just in Time for Your Summer Vacation

SAN DIEGO, April 3, 2008 -- The new pocket-sized Sony HDR-TG1 Handycam(R) camcorder's weighty high-definition capability will appeal to vacationers who prefer to "travel light."
 

This diminutive camcorder weighs in at only ten ounces. It has an ultra-portable body measuring just 1.3-inches wide by 4.7-inches tall by 2.5-inches deep.
 

It is a full-featured camcorder that can record 1920 x 1080 HD video and 4-megapixel digital photos directly to Sony Memory Stick PRO Duo(TM) or PRO Duo Mark2 media cards. Its size and full recording capability makes it the world's smallest full HD camcorder.
 

Another bonus for any traveler is the camcorder's durable titanium body and premium hard coating that makes it highly resistant to scratches and quite fashionable.
 

It ships with a supplied 4GB PRO Duo Mark2 media card so it's ready to go straight out of the box and you don't have to make space in your travel bag for extra discs or tapes.
 

"Sony was the first to introduce a travel-sized camcorder with 8 mm technology in the 1980's, and it revolutionized the travel and electronics industries," said Kelly Davis, director of camcorder marketing at Sony Electronics. "This new model is a great example of our expertise in miniaturization, as well as advanced imaging technologies with features like face detection."
 

Face Detection for the Best Possible Picture
 

This new model incorporates face detection technology for both video and still images, a technology also shared with select Sony Cyber-shot(R) digital cameras. It can identify up to eight faces in the camcorder's 2.7-inch touch panel LCD screen, and automatically adjust focus, exposure, color control for natural-looking skin tones, and when photos are taken, flash control.
 

The model also allocates more encoding bits to a detected face during the encoding process for the best possible picture when people are the subjects.
 

Not Just Another Pretty Face
 

The camcorder features advanced video and audio technologies with simple, intuitive operation. It is equipped with a high-quality Carl Zeiss(R) Vario-Tessar(R) 10x optical zoom lens and 2-megapixel ClearVid(TM) CMOS sensor with Exmor(TM)-derived technology, engineered to minimize picture noise.
 

The camera's BIONZ(TM) processing engine also features noise reduction capabilities in addition to fast processing speeds. This engine powers the model's dynamic range optimization feature, which automatically adjusts under- or over-exposed areas in a picture. These technologies together produce high-resolution video and photos with natural color reproduction and rich details.
 

Audio is recorded in Dolby(R) Digital 5.1-channel surround sound and features a built-in zoom microphone, delivering clear recordings of your subjects along with the video.
 

Designed to be the perfect travel companion, the HDR-TG1 camcorder will ship with supplied accessories in May for about $900. There is also an optional travel kit (Sony ACC-TCH5) that includes a battery, travel charger and pouch for about $100. Plus, there is a custom-fit case (Sony LCM-TGA) with brushed metal accents available as an accessory for about $50.
 

All can be purchased, along with other accessory options, direct at sonystyle.com, at Sony Style(R) retail stores (sonystyle.com/retail), at authorized dealers nationwide, and at military base exchanges. Pre-orders begin on Apr. 4 at http://www.sonystyle.com/.
 

Source: Sony Electronics Inc.

Web site: http://www.sonystyle.com/
 

Sony Pictures Television Launches PIX

First U.S. Motion Picture Network Offering Contemporary Films Via Mobile Phones

PIX Will Premiere On AT&T Mobile TV

-- Sony Pictures Television today announced PIX, the first domestic network for mobile phones that will feature contemporary films. Viewers on the go will now be able to watch their favorite comedies, cult classics, heart-pounding action films and family favorites from the studio's vast library in the palms of their hands. Subscribers of AT&T Mobile TV, launching in May, will be able to enjoy access to PIX on their AT&T mobile phones.
 

"PIX will give viewers their own personal movie theater wherever they take their mobile phones," said Eric Berger, vice president, mobile entertainment, Sony Pictures Television. "With an incredible library of quality Hollywood hits, it's a mobile destination channel for convenient, enjoyable entertainment, and the latest offering in SPT's distinctive portfolio of mobile games and video."
 

"We are thrilled to have PIX as a channel on AT&T Mobile TV, adding to the impressive television programming lineup that awaits our mobile customers," said Mark Collins, vice president of Consumer Data for AT&T's wireless unit. "We are constantly looking for unique and compelling content offerings for AT&T customers, so being able to give them mobile access to the massive movie library of Sony Pictures Television via PIX is truly going to enhance their overall mobile experience."
 

Offering films from Columbia Pictures, Tri-Star, ScreenGems and Sony Pictures Classics, the ground-breaking service will include a versatile catalog of movies across all genres. The films will also be accompanied by added value material. Titles will be available for up to one month, with films added weekly. Some of the first titles to be offered include: Bugsy, Ghostbusters, Memento, Philadelphia, Karate Kid, Layer Cake, A League of their Own, Kung Fu Hustle, Resident Evil, In The Line of Fire, Groundhog Day, Stand By Me, Fisher King, and Roxanne.
 

Sony Pictures Television is one of the television industry's leading content providers. It produces and distributes programming in every genre, including series, telefilms, theatrical releases and family entertainment for network and cable television, as well as first-run and off-network series for syndication. With more than 25 programs on the air, SPT boasts a program slate that includes the top-rated daytime dramas and game shows, landmark off-network series, original animated series and critically acclaimed primetime dramas, comedies and telefilms. SPT also owns one-half of cable channel GSN and is a partner in FEARnet, the premier horror/thriller website and VOD service. Sony Pictures Television oversees all of Sony Pictures Entertainment's (SPE) domestic digital distribution efforts across all electronically delivered platforms, including the internet and mobile. Sony Pictures Television, advertiser sales, is one of the premiere national advertising sales companies, handling the commercial inventory in SPT syndicated series as well as in all of SPE's digital businesses in the United States, for Sony BMG and for iN DEMAND's high-definition channel Mojo and the Tennis Channel, and is part owner of national media sales company ITN Networks, Inc. SPT (http://www.sonypicturestelevision.com/) is a Sony Pictures Entertainment company.
 

Source: Sony Pictures Television

Web site: http://www.sonypicturestelevision.com/
 

Sony Announces Title Sponsorship of NOPI Drag Racing Series Sanctioned by the NHRA

 -- With the focus on its Xplod(R) brand of mobile electronics products, Sony Electronics is announcing its sponsorship of the Xplod NOPI Drag Race Series sanctioned by the NHRA for the 2008 season.
 

"The overwhelming support from racers and the automotive industry has brought incredible energy to the whole NOPI team," said Michael Meyers, president of NOPI Motorsports. "Being able to partner with an industry leader like Sony only adds to the excitement for the new season. Sony is an incredible company with a great understanding of the automotive enthusiasts' community."
 

"It brings a great deal to the table for NOPI racers and fans. With this new partnership, NOPI will achieve goals never thought possible."
 

"Sony has been involved with drag racing for the last seven years," said Mike Kahn, director of mobile electronics in the Digital Imaging and Audio Division at Sony Electronics. "This sponsorship demonstrates Sony's continued commitment to the sport."
 

Sony will have an on-site presence with an interactive tractor trailer display, promoting the Xplod line of car stereo accessories and Sony portable audio products, including Muteki shelf systems. There will also be two exotic show cars that show off Sony's high-end mobile electronics products.
 

There are eight drag racing events sponsored by Sony, and the company will recognize the achievements of the winning teams by offering awards for the overall champions. These champions will be presented with a Sony Electronics hardware product during the final awards ceremony.
 

Source: Sony Electronics Inc.

Web site: http://www.sony.com/news
 

SONY PICTURES HOME ENTERTAINMENT DELIVERS CLASSIC TITLES AND POPULAR NEW RELEASES ON BLU-RAY HIGH-DEF™

IN TIME FOR THE HOLIDAY SEASON

SPIDER-MAN 3 AND THE SPIDER-MAN™ HIGH -DEFNINITION TRILOGY

HIT STORE SHELVES IN OCTOBER

ALONG WITH SURF’S UP, HOSTEL: DIRECTOR’S CUT, HOSTEL: PART II,

BRAM STOKER’S DRACULA, HOLLOW MAN AND THE COMPANY

CULVER CITY, CALIF. (September 25, 2007) – With the holiday season quickly approaching, Sony Pictures Home Entertainment (SPHE) announced the October debut of five new releases, Spider-Man 3, Surf’s Up, Reign Over Me, The Company and Hostel Part II, and five catalog Blu-ray High-DefTM titles, including Bram Stoker’s Dracula, Hollow Man and Hostel: Director’s Cut, as well as the Spider-Man™ High-Definition Trilogy, featuring all three films together for the first time and available only on Blu-ray Disc™. 

These ten Blu-ray releases take advantage of the format’s 50GB storage capacity, high-definition 1080p picture quality and feature a combination of uncompressed PCM 5.1 audio and / or Dolby TrueHD.  These releases add to Sony Pictures Home Entertainment’s existing library of more than 70 high-def titles available on Blu-ray DiscTM.

Other Sony Pictures Home Entertainment titles coming exclusively to Blu-ray High-DefTM this winter include Steven Spielberg’s first high-definition release Close Encounters of the Third Kind.

BRAM STOKER’S DRACULA – Available October 2th (CAT)

Five time Oscar ® Winner Francis Ford Coppola reinvents screen magic in this gothic epic. This all-star cast includes Anthony Hopkins, Winona Ryder, Keanu Reeves, Cary Elwes and Gary Oldman as Vlad Dracul who returns triumphantly in the opening scene to discover the death of his one true love.  After denouncing his faith, Oldman’s persona alters to reflect the dark and sinister blood-lusting vampire who truly believes love never dies.  Added-value features on the Blu-ray Disc include over 30 minutes of deleted scenes along with: 

•           Francis Ford Coppola Video Intro

•           Director’s Audio Commentary (SD)

•           Featurette: The Blood is The Life – The Making of Dracula

•           Featurette: The Costumes Are the Sets – The Design of Eiko Ishioka

•           Featurette: In-Camera – The Naïve Visual Effects of Dracula

•           Featurette: Method and Madness – Visualizing Dracula

•           Trailer for Francis Ford Coppola’s new theatrical film Youth Without Youth

*Bonus material presented in HD except where noted

REIGN OVER ME – Available October 9th (DD)

Academy Award® nominee Don Cheadle, Adam Sandler, Jada Pinkett Smith and Liv Tyler unite in this modern day drama of two distant friends whose polarized paths cross many years later after the tragedy of September 11th.  The rekindled friendship comes at a pivotal moment in both men’s lives and illuminates the value of a true bond as the refreshed men emerge enriched and enlightened.  The Blu-ray Disc version of the poignant film features the following:

•           Featurette: Behind The Reign: The Making-Of Reign Over Me

•           A Still Reign: Photographic Montage

•           Extended Jam Session with Adam Sandler and Don Cheadle

*Bonus material presented in HD

SURF’S UP  – Available October 9th (DD)

This animated adventure invites you to experience the summer’s biggest tidal wave featuring the voice talents of Shia LaBeouf (Transformers, Disturbia, Constantine, I Robot), Jeff Bridges (The Big Lebowski, Seabiscuit), Zooey Deschanel (Elf, Almost Famous) and Jon Heder (Napoleon Dynamite, Blades of Glory).  Cody Maverick (Shia LaBeouf) embarks on a journey away from home, determined to return as the winner of the Big Z Memorial Surf-Off.  However, once immersed in the high-octane world of competitive penguin surfing, this young seabird begins to realize that victory is not always synonymous with who comes in first place.  This animated Blu-ray Disc offers impressive marine visuals as well as an assortment of added-value features, including:

•           Filmmaker Commentary

•           The ChubbChubbs Save XMAS – All-New Animated Short

•           The ChubbChubbs – The original Academy Award®-winning Animated Short

•           Featurette: Not A Drop of Real Water – Three-part documentary that takes viewers behind-the-scenes of the film and its technical achievements

•           Music Video: Ms. Lauryn Hill Lose Myself

•           Featurette: Arnold ’s Zurfinary  – Arnold gives a kids-eye view of surf terminology

•           Surf’s Up Pinball – Java enhanced interactive game

*Bonus material presented in HD

HOLLOW MAN (DC) – Available October 16th (CAT)

A captivating thriller that begs the familiar question - what would life be like if I were invisible? Hollow Man Director’s Cut stars Kevin Bacon (Apollo 13, Stir of Echoes), Elisabeth Shue (Leaving Las Vegas , Underneath) and Josh Brolin (Grindhouse, Mimic) in a dark and menacing film of a scientist desperate to experience the impossible.  This suspenseful film demonstrates how unchecked power will inevitably corrupt even the most brilliant of human beings, spinning reality out of their own control.  The Blu-ray Disc includes the following:

•           Featurette: HBO Making of: Anatomy of a Thriller

•           Featurette: Fleshing Out the Hollow Man: 15 Behind-the-Scenes

•           Featurette: VFX Picture Comparisons

*Bonus material presented in SD

THE COMPANY– Available October 23th (DD)

CIA activity during the 40 years spanning the beginning of the Cold War to the demise of the Soviet Union involved one search & destroy mission of espionage after another.  Chris O’Donnell stars as Jack Cauliffe, an idealistic Yale graduate recruited into the CIA by his coach to be sent to Germany to work with a man who later becomes his mentor.  The two men experience the difficulties of leading double lives, fighting an elusive but formidable enemy in an unrelenting and deadly battle while desperately trying to remain detached and in touch with reality.  Added-value features on the Blu-ray Disc version of the film include:

•           Featurette: Declassified: The Origins of The Company

•           Featurette: The Hidden Hand: The Making of The Company

*Bonus material presented in SD 

HOSTEL PART II and HOSTEL: DIRECTOR’S CUT  (2006) – Available October 23h (DD)

In the deliciously macabre modern horror classic Hostel Part II, the blood sopping follow up to Writer-Director-Producer Eli Roth’s and executive Producer Quentin Tarantino’s (Pulp Fiction and Kill Bill: Vols. 1 & 2) Hostel, plunges deep into the darkest recesses of human nature. 

In addition, Eli Roth’s shocking original ending in Hostel: Director’s Cut  – deemed too disturbing for theatrical audiences – is now restored and available for the first time on Blu-ray for a complete viewing of the depths of Eli Roth’s acclaimed best nightmare yet.

Hostel: Part II on Blu-ray offers the following added-value features:

•           Interactive Surveillance Cameras

•           Featurette: Hostel Part II: The Next Level

•           Featurette: The Art of KNB EFX

•           Featurette: Production Design

•           Featurette: International Television Special

•           Featurette:  "Hostel Part II:  A Legacy of Torture" International Television Special

            Blood and Guts Gag Reel Blood and Guts Montage (Java enhanced)

•           Deleted Scenes

•           "The Treatment": KCRW radio interview with Eli Roth by Elvis Mitchell

•           Director’s Commentary with Eli Roth

•           Director and Producers’ Commentary with Eli Roth, Quentin Tarantino and Gabriel Roth

•           Director & Guests' Commentary with Eli Roth, Lauren German, Richard Burgi and Vera Jordanova

Hostel on Blu-ray offers the following added-value features:

•           "All New Never-Before-Seen Director's Cut Ending"

•           Director and Executive Producers’ Commentary with Eli Roth, Quentin Tarantino, Boaz Yakin and Scott Spiegel

•           Director and Guests’ Commentary with Eli Roth, actors Barbara Nedeljakova and Eythor Gudjonsson, editor George Folsey, Jr. and journalist Harry Knowles

•           Director and Producers’ Commentary with Eli Roth, Producer Chris Biggs and Documentarian Gabriel Roth

•           Director’s Commentary with Eli Roth

•           Featurette: Music and Sound – Composer Nathan Barr takes us inside his studio and shows viewers his different instruments and how they were used for the film

•           Featurette: Set Design – A tour of conceptual drawings and sets used to create the film’s unsettling backdrop  

•           Featurette: KNB Effects – The KNB EFX Group discusses the films horrific visual effects

•           Featurette: An Icelandic Meal with Actor Eythor Gudjonsson –Gudjonsson (Hostel) shares a bit of the Icelandic culture while enjoying one of the nation’s peculiar delicacies

•           Featurette: Takashi Miike Interview - An interview with noted film Director Takashi Miike (Ichi the Killer, Audition) who makes an appearance in the film

•           Hostel Dismembered – International TV special

•           “The Treatment” – KCRW radio interview with Eli Roth by Elvis Mitchell

•           Featurette: Multi-angle Kill The Car

•           Featurette: Hostel Dissected – The Making Of

•           Ten deleted scenes

•           Four photo galleries hand-picked by Eli Roth

THE SPIDER-MAN™ HIGH DEFINITION TRILOGY – Available October 30h (DD & CAT)

This October, all three Spider-Man™ films will be available in high definition. The Blu-ray versions of Spider-Man™ 1 & 2 join the new release of Spider-Man™ 3 available exclusively in a three disc Blu-ray package.  In this set, Spider-Man™ 2 offers seamless branching between the theatrical version of the film and the recently-released extended cut, with additional footage and extended fight sequences never before seen in theaters.  In addition, SPHE is releasing a two-disc Blu-ray version of Spider-Man™, which, as SPHE's first feature film to be released on a two-disc Blu-ray set, incorporates Java platforms which enable the addition of multiple interactive menus. 

Disc One Special Features:

•           Bloopers

•           Enhanced Photo Gallery: Contains optional music bed, automated slideshow with speed setting and navigation via thumbnail ribbon

•           Snow Patrol Music Video

•           Audio Commentary with Director Sam Raimi and Cast Members Tobey Maguire, Kirsten Dunst, James Franco, Thomas Haden Church, Topher Grace, and Bryce Dallas Howard

•           Audio Commentary with Producers Laura Ziskin, Avi Arad and Grant Curtis, Editor Bob Murawski and Visual Effects Supervisor Scott Stokdyk

Disc Two Special Features:

•           Featurette: Grains of Sand - Building Sandman

•           Featurette: Re-Imagining the Goblin

•           Featurette: Covered in Black – Creating Venom

•           Featurette: Hanging On…Gwen Stacy and the Collapsing Floor

•           Featurette: Fighting, Flying & Driving – The Stunts    

•           Featurette: Tangled Web:  The Love Triangles of Spider-Man™ 3

•           Featurette: Wall Of Water

•           Featurette: On Location Cleveland – The Chase on Euclid Avenue

•           Featurette: On Location New York –From Rooftops to Backstreets

•           Featurette: The Science of Sound

•           Featurette: Inside The Editing Room

•           Theatrical TV Spots From Around the World

*Bonus material presented in 1080p HD

** “Oscar®” is the registered trademark and service mark of the Academy of Motion Picture Arts and Sciences.

Sony Pictures' Crackle Programs 'Moving Targets' Hilarity Ensues!

Comedy Channel Delivers Sketches, Shorts, Spoofs and Animation from Today's Comedy Vets and Tomorrow's Funniest Stars 24/7

-- Crackle, a Sony Pictures Entertainment Company, today announced the launch of Moving Targets, a programmed channel teeming with gut-busting sketches, hilarious digital shorts, and laugh-out-loud animation.
 

Moving Targets delivers laughs around the clock from the comedy chops of veterans like Jerry Zucker (Airplane!, Naked Gun, and many more), animation innovators Starz and Jennifer Shiman (30-Second Bunnies Theatre), and Brian Dalton (Mr. Deity), as well as open submissions from today's emerging talent.
 

The stage has Second City, TV has Saturday Night Live, now the Web has Moving Targets.
 

"Sketch comedy has been a launching pad for some of Hollywood's brightest stars, and with Moving Targets we're giving content creators the opportunity to shine, while comedy hungry audiences get quality programming they desire," said Tony Liano, vice president of programming at Crackle. "Every generation has had a signature comedy program -- Laugh-In, In Living Color, Saturday Night Live -- Moving Targets will be this generation's."
 

At launch, Moving Targets will be home to comedy from several partners including:
 

Crackle also produces a stable of original programs under the auspices of Crackle Studios. Moving Targets combines licensed and produced episodes as well as invited submissions from emerging talent participants. At launch, original content includes:
 

Moving Targets exemplifies the best of Crackle's unique open studio formula:
 

"The Internet is an empowering medium, and we want to let artists tell their stories without interfering with their creative process, you can't do that on television," said Sean Carey, senior executive vice president, Sony Pictures. "We're giving the best and brightest talent a forum to showcase their skills, and with the prospect of pitching their show ideas to top television executives as the prize, you can be sure they'll all be bringing their A-game to the competition."
 

About Crackle
 

Crackle, Inc., a Sony Pictures Entertainment Company, is a streaming entertainment network dedicated to the discovery and development of pioneering video creators across a diverse range of genres. Crackle delivers programmed and customized video streams to a global audience via a multi-platform, syndication network that includes Sony devices, IPTV, leading social networks and one-click viral Web distribution. Crackle launches the most innovative creators with on-going collaboration with Sony Pictures Entertainment and other leading fame partners.
 

Visit Crackle's new site at http://www.crackle.com/ .
 

Source: Crackle, Inc.
 

Web site: http://www.crackle.com/

Sony Bolsters Blu-Ray Disc Player Line With Two New Models

-- Sony introduced two additional Blu-ray Disc(TM) (BD) players today offering a full range of features.

Optimized for the home theater enthusiast, the new BDP-S2000ES model is the first Blu-ray Disc player in Sony's "Elevated Standard" (ES) line. This model, as well as the new BDP-S500, which complements Sony's current BDP-S300 BD player, features full high-definition 1080/60p and 24p True Cinema output. They support 7.1 channel linear PCM and Dolby(R) TrueHD, Dolby(R) Digital Plus, as well as dts-HD(TM) High Resolution Audio bitstream output via HDMI(TM) (ver1.3).

"Consumer support of Sony's Blu-ray Disc products has been outstanding and the new models are targeted to satisfy the demand of those who crave an even greater level of entertainment and performance," said Chris Fawcett, vice president of marketing for Sony Electronics' Home Product Division. "From the enthusiast level of our ES line down to the entry-level models, our commitment to the finest quality video and sound delivered by the BD format has never been stronger."

The BDP-S2000ES model features dual shield construction, which prevents dust from collecting on the BD drive, and a rigid drive bracket to minimize vibration. The player also sports a rigid beam chassis that reduces internal vibration, improving playback.

Similar to other Sony ES products, the unit's aluminum insulator feet help isolate the player from external vibrations, while separate audio and video boards deliver better sound and picture quality. The unit also includes the IR-in feature for custom installation market.

The BDP-S2000ES and BDP-S500 units both offer 7.1 channel Dolby TrueHD, Dolby Digital Plus, and DTS-HD High Resolution Audio bitstream output, which is optional specification of HDMI ver1.3. This makes them a perfect match for the recently announced STR-DA5300ES and STR-DA4300ES AV receivers, which also feature the ability to decode the advanced audio codecs. The new BD players also feature Dolby TrueHD, along with the Dolby Digital Plus and DTS-HD High Resolution Audio decoding function via HDMI, to offer a better sound experience with existing receivers.

The Blu-ray Disc players feature 1080/60p and 24p True Cinema output. They are compatible with most standard DVDs and feature 1080p upscaling through HDMI to capable HDTV sets, improving the picture performance of existing DVD libraries.

The new players support AVCHD discs encoded with x.v.Color(TM) (xvYCC) technology, an international standard for wide color space. The standard expands the current data range of video by about 1.8 times, allowing the players to output more natural and vivid colors similar to what the human eye can actually see. The players also feature compatibility with an array of video formats, including BD-R/RE (BDMV mode), DVD+R/+RW, DVD-R/-RW (Video Mode), CD, CD-R/RW (CD-DA format), MP3, and JPEG on DVD recordable media.

Both the BDP-S2000ES and BDP-S500 players incorporate BRAVIA(R) Theatre Sync(TM) through HDMI. This allows for integrated operation with a compatible BRAVIA flat-panel LCD HDTV sets and audio/video receivers. With the touch of a button, you can easily power on and synch the inputs of compatible Sony AV devices connected to the players via HDMI for hassle-free enjoyment of high-definition Blu-ray Discs.

The units offer optical and coaxial digital audio outputs, along with 5.1 channel decoding capability for backward compatibility with existing A/V receivers.

The new BDP-S2000ES and BDP-S500 players will be available this fall for about $1,300 and $700, respectively. They will be offered at Sony Style stores, online at sonystyle.com, at military base exchanges, and at authorized retailers nationwide.

Source: Sony Electronics, Inc.

Integrating technology from the original, ultra-premium QUALIA(R) 004 SXRD(R) front home theater projector first introduced in 2004, Sony Electronics today unveiled two full high-definition 1080p BRAVIA(R) projectors (models VPL-VW200 and VPL-VW60) that offer the ultimate in cinema-like performance for the home theater.

The new 1920 x 1080 progressive Silicon X-tal Reflective Display (SXRD) projectors feature 24p True Cinema technology that, when paired with high-definition components like Sony's BDP-S2000ES Blu-ray Disc(TM) player, displays movies more like they are intended by their directors with smooth, film-like images.

"As the front projector home theater market grows, our commitment is to deliver high-quality, feature-rich equipment at all performance levels," said Jeff Goldstein, vice president of television and projector marketing for Sony Electronics. "Features like high frame rate, 24p True Cinema, exceptional contrast and brightness raise the stakes and bring consumers closer to a true movie theater experience in the home."

The VPL-VW200 and VPL-VW60 models feature newly designed SXRD panels with wire grid polarizers and high contrast plates that more than double the previous native contrast ratio. When combined with Sony's Advanced Iris technology, the panels help to deliver a stunning 35,000:1 dynamic contrast ratio. The VPL-VW60 model also features improved brightness of 1,000lm.

Both projectors can accept an external anamorphic lens (sold separately) that, when paired with Sony's Anamorphic zoom mode, allows users to watch movies in their native aspect ratio of 2.35:1. Specifically designed with the custom installation market in mind, the projectors are also equipped with a panel alignment adjustment function that aligns each red, green and blue pixel for precise images.

The VPL-VW200 projector also has new high frame rate SXRD (120 FPS) panels and offers three motion compensation modes. These enable users to adapt performance based on content for the best possible motion reproduction and picture quality with moving images. The model also features a Carl Zeiss(R) Vario-Tesar lens optimized for SXRD, supports x.v.Color(TM) technology via HDMI(TM), and adds a high output pure Xenon lamp that maintains the ideal color temperature characteristics of red, green and blue for accurate color display. Additionally, the unit is equipped with an Ethernet input allowing for set up and control of the projector from a PC through the Internet.

The new VPL-VW200 and VPL-VW60 models feature all-digital video signal processing via the BRAVIA Engine(TM) with its unique algorithms for noise reduction and color enhancement to deliver sharp, vibrant images.

The projectors also feature advanced cooling structures that produce a low fan noise of 22dB. They have 1.8x powered lens zoom, in addition to adjustable lens shift and blanking for flexible home theater installation.

The VPL-VW200 projector will be available in October for about $15,000, while the VPL-VW60 unit will be available in September for about $5,000. Both models will be offered at Sony Style(R) retail stores nationwide, as well as military base exchanges and authorized dealers around the country.

FCMN Contact:

Source: Sony

Sony Pictures Home Entertainment's Total Blu-ray Disc Sales Across Europe Reach the 250,000 Milestone

- North American Sales Nearing 1 Million -

IFA -- Sony Pictures Home Entertainment (SPHE) today announced that the company's Blu-ray Disc(TM) sales across Europe have reached 250,000 while sales in North America are nearing the one million mark approaching the fourth quarter with the Blu-ray launch of the highly anticipated blockbuster SPIDER-MAN 3 and Steven Spielberg's CLOSE ENCOUNTERS OF THE THIRD KIND.

These benchmarks follow last week's announcement that sales of the high-definition format in six emerging markets including Hong Kong, Singapore, Taiwan, Eastern Europe, South Africa and the Middle East now account for 10 percent of SPHE's total business in the growing regions.

Said David Bishop, President, Worldwide, Sony Pictures Home Entertainment: "These sales milestones across the world illuminate the positive reception from retailers and consumers alike for Blu-ray. Our strong fourth quarter line-up will underscore the confidence in this format."

Since the European launch of the PS3 in March, weekly sales of Blu-ray Disc(TM) titles have averaged between two- and five-times the amount of HD DVD sales week over week.**

Blu-ray(TM) High-Def software now accounts for 69% of the total high-definition market in Europe, with SPHE titles making up more than 47% of the total European Blu-ray market. SPHE also holds the #1 best selling high-definition title in Europe -- Casino Royale.

Simon McDowell, Senior Vice President, Europe, Sony Pictures Home Entertainment added: "With the breadth of titles already available on Blu-ray, the format is out-selling HD-DVD by more than 2:1 in Europe. Going into Q4, SPHE has a strong slate on deck and support from retailers, which should further propel momentum for Blu-ray."

As part of the company's fourth quarter Blu-ray Disc(TM) line-up, Spider-Man will be making his way to Blu-ray with the much anticipated release of Spider-Man 3(TM) in Europe from 15 October*. Spider-Man and Spider-Man 2 will also be exclusively available for the first time on Blu-ray(TM) High-Def in the Spider-Man High Definition Trilogy Set.

Steven Spielberg's critically acclaimed classic, Close Encounters of the Third Kind will be released in Europe on Blu-ray Disc(TM) from 12 November. All three versions of the film are included on one 50GB disc through seamless branching.

SPHE was the first studio to release Blu-ray titles in Europe and SPHE has released a broad selection of Blu-ray Disc titles since the format's initial launch including Casino Royale and Black Hawk Down. To date SPHE has released more than 40 Blu-ray(TM) High-Def titles across Europe, with more than 30 titles scheduled for release between now and Christmas in Europe.

SPIDER-MAN 3 & SPIDER-MAN HIGH DEFINITION TRILOGY - from 3 September

The Spider-Man High Definition Trilogy is a three-pack release of all three films on Blu-ray(TM) High-Def allowing fans an exclusive opportunity to collect both Spider-Man and Spider-Man 2 in high definition, along with Spider-Man 3 and the branching elements from Spider-Man 2.1 extended cut. Spider-Man 3 will also be available as a stand-alone two-disc release on Blu-ray(TM) High-Def, with the feature presented on a 50GB dual-layer disc and more than six hours of all-new bonus materials, including a trio of featurettes spotlighting the cinematic creation of the web crawler's greatest nemeses, on a second 25GB disc. Directed by Sam Raimi and starring Tobey Maguire, Kirsten Dunst, James Franco, Thomas Haden Church, and Topher Grace, Spider-Man 3 smashed box office records and grossed more than $885 million worldwide during its theatrical run.

CLOSE ENCOUNTERS OF THE THIRD KIND: 30th ANNIVERSARY ULTIMATE EDITION - from 12 November

Close Encounters of the Third Kind, Steven Spielberg's critically acclaimed classic, will be released on Blu-ray Disc(TM) from 12 November. Celebrating the 30th anniversary of this motion picture, the set incorporates all three versions of the film, including the first-ever home video release of the 1977 Original Theatrical edition, as well as the re-edited 1980 theatrical Special Edition and Spielberg's definitive Director's Cut (released in 1998 as the Collector's Edition). This marks the first classic Spielberg film ever to be released on a pre-recorded high definition disc format.

The stunning high definition presentation of Close Encounters of the Third Kind: 30th Anniversary Ultimate Edition contains all three cinematic versions on just one 50 GB Blu-ray Disc(TM), with bonus material included on a second disc. All three versions are included on one disc through a process known as "seamless branching," made possible with the added interactivity of Blu-ray's software and the robust processing power of the players. This process identifies the differences between each version of the film and segments the footage accordingly. These segments are then encoded and assembled into three unique playlists, thus allowing footage used in all three films to be included on the Blu-ray Disc(TM) only once. Based on the viewer's selection of the Original Version, Special Edition or definitive Director's Cut, each film will be presented seamlessly in its original form by use of its respective playlist.

Added value materials on the Close Encounters of the Third Kind: 30th Anniversary Ultimate Edition high definition Blu-ray Disc(TM) include an exclusive interview with Spielberg created specifically for this release, all-new "Storyboard-to-Scene Comparisons," the original 1977 "Watch The Skies" featurette and an original theatrical preview.

SURF'S UP - from 9 October

Surf's Up goes behind the scenes of the high-octane world of competitive penguin surfing with the vocal talents of Shia LaBeouf, Jeff Bridges, Zooey Deschanel and Jon Heder. Inspired by his hero, the legendary wave rider Big Z, Cody Maverick leaves his family and his town of Shiverpool, Antarctica to travel to Pen Gu Island for the Big Z Memorial Surf Off -- Cody's first pro competition. Cody believes that winning will bring him the admiration and respect he deserves. But when he unexpectedly comes face to face with Geek, a washed up old surfer, Cody begins to understand that the greatest champion isn't always the one who comes in first.

The Surf's Up Blu-ray Disc(TM) will include the all-new animated short "The ChubbChubbs Save XMAS," (featuring the characters from the Academy Award(R)-winning short film) as well as three exciting interactive games -- "Create Your Own Surfboard," "Lava Surf," and "Whale Hopping," a three-part documentary about the technical achievements in making the movie, filmmakers' commentary and much more!

A FEW GOOD MEN - from 17 September

The acclaimed drama about the dangerous dichotomy between following orders and following one's conscience, A Few Good Men features Tom Cruise as a brash Navy lawyer who's teamed with a gung-ho litigator, played by Demi Moore, in a politically explosive murder case. Charged with defending two Marines accused of killing a fellow soldier, the two lawyers are confronted with the complex issues of loyalty and honor, including its most sacred code and its most formidable warrior, played by Jack Nicholson. Special bonus features on the 50GB Blu-ray Disc(TM) include Director's Commentary with Rob Reiner as well as two featurettes: "Code of Conduct" and "From Stage to Screen."

MEMOIRS OF A GEISHA - from 25 September (rights vary across European territories -- excludes UK)

A Cinderella story like no other, Memoirs of a Geisha stars Ziyi Zhang, Ken Watanabe, Michelle Yeoh and Gong Li in a romantic epic about a house servant blossoming against all odds to become the most captivating geisha of her day. The Blu-ray(TM) High-Def version of the film features an extensive array of bonus features on a 50GB disc, including an enhanced high-definition photo gallery, indexing and bookmark capabilities, audio commentary by Rob Marshall and John DeLuca, Audio Commentary, AV pop-up menus, an enhanced Blu-meter(TM) and 11 featurettes: "Sayuri's Journey -- From the Novel to the Screen," "The Road to Japan," "Geisha Bootcamp," "Building the Hanamachi," "The Look of Geisha," "The Music of 'Memoirs,'" "A Geisha's Dance," "The World of the Geisha," "The Way of the Sumo," "Rob Marshall," and "A Day With Chef Nobu Matsuhisa."

UNDERWORLD - from 17 September (rights vary across European territories -- excludes UK)

Kate Beckinsale and Scott Speedman star in Underworld, a futuristic, action-packed tale of ruthless intrigue and forbidden passion set against the dazzling backdrop of a timeless, Gothic metropolis. The 50GB Underworld Blu-ray Disc(TM) offers an assortment of added-value features, including Director and Cast Commentary, a blooper reel, storyboard comparisons, a Finch "Worms of the Earth" music video and eight featurettes: "Fang vs. Fiction," "Making-of 'Underworld,'" "The Visual Effects of 'Underworld,'" "Creature Effects," "Stunts," "Designing 'Underworld,'" "The Look of 'Underworld,'" and "Sights and Sounds of 'Underworld.'"

BRAM STOKER'S DRACULA - from 1 October

Academy Award(R)-winning director Francis Ford Coppola's gothic epic Bram Stoker's Dracula, featuring a sensational all-star ensemble with Academy Award-winner Anthony Hopkins, Gary Oldman, Winona Ryder, Keanu Reeves, and Cary Elwes arrives on a 50GB Blu-ray Disc(TM) starting 1 October, with never-before-seen special features. For the first time, Francis Ford Coppola provides a video introduction and audio commentary for his modern horror classic. Also among the brand-new extras are deleted scenes and four new featurettes: "The Blood is the Life -- The Making of Dracula," "The Costumes Are the Sets -- The Design of Eiko Ishioka," "In-Camera -- The Naïve Visual Effects of Dracula" and "Method and Madness -- Visualizing Dracula."

20 MILLION MILES TO EARTH: 50th ANNIVERSARY EDITION - from 4 December

Sony Pictures Home Entertainment marks the half-century milestone of one of the earliest films by stop-motion animation genius Ray Harryhausen with the debut of 20 Million Miles to Earth: 50th Anniversary Edition, available starting 4 December. This 50GB Blu-ray Disc(TM) includes the pristine, digitally-restored black & white original version of the film along a newly colorized version (supervised by Harryhausen himself) and a wealth of added value material. Bonus features include audio commentary by Ray Harryhausen, visual effects artists Dennis Muren and Phil Tippett, and producer Arnold Kunert, "Remembering 20 Million Miles to Earth," wherein Harryhausen and others discuss the film's production and influence, "Tim Burton Sits Down with Ray Harryhausen," "The Joan Taylor Interview," "Colorization," a video discussion of 20 Million Miles to Earth's 1957 marketing and advertising campaign by producer Arnold Kunert, "Mischa Bakaleinikoff: Film Music's Unsung Hero," and an elaborate still and production art gallery.

* release dates vary by territory

** Gfk, ytd 12th August, 2007.

About Sony Pictures Home Entertainment:

Sony Pictures Home Entertainment is a division of Sony Corporation of America, a subsidiary of Tokyo-based Sony Corporation. Sony Pictures Entertainment's global operations encompass motion picture production and distribution; television production and distribution; digital content creation and distribution; worldwide channel investments; home entertainment acquisition and distribution; operation of studio facilities; development of new entertainment products, services and technologies; and distribution of filmed entertainment in 67 countries. Information on Sony Pictures Entertainment and Blu-ray can be found on the World Wide Web at http://www.sonypictures.com/bluray.

Source: Sony Pictures Home Entertainment

SONY PICTURES HOME ENTERTAINMENT ANNOUNCES

SEPTEMBER BLU-RAY DISC^TM SLATE

THE REPLACEMENT KILLERS, A FEW GOOD MEN, BLACK BOOK, MEMOIRS OF A GEISHA, TEKKONKINKREET AND UNDERWORLD AMONG TITLES

CULVER CITY, CALIF. (August 20, 2007) – Sony Pictures Home Entertainment (SPHE) announced the September debut of two new releases, Black Book and Tekkonkinkreet, and four catalog Blu-ray High-Def^TM titles, The Rep la cement Killers, A Few Good Men, Memoirs of a Geisha and Underworld.  Each of the six Blu-ray releases takes advantage of the format’s 50GB storage capacity, high-definition 1080p picture quality and features uncompressed PCM 5.1 audio. These releases add to Sony Pictures Home Entertainment’s existing library of over 60 high-def titles available on Blu-ray Disc^TM.

Other Sony Pictures Home Entertainment titles coming exclusively to Blu-ray High-Def^TM this fall include Spider-Man3, Close Encounters of the Third Kind, Reign Over Me, Surf’s Up and Hostel: Part II.

THE REPLACEMENT KILLERS – Available September 11^th (CAT)

Oscar® winner Mira Sorvino (1995 Best Supporting Actress, Mighty Aphrodite) and International superstar Chow Yun-Fat (John Woo's Hard-Boiled) star in The Rep la cement Killers, a fierce and explosive action thriller from director Antoine Fuqua (Training Day, Shooter and King Arthur).  This Blu-ray release includes the following bonus features:

·         Featurette: Chow Yun-Fat Goes Hollywood

·         Featurette: “Where The Action Is” (Edited HBO special)

*Bonus material presented in Standard Definition

A FEW GOOD MEN – Available September 18^th (CAT)

The acc la imed drama about the dangerous dichotomy between following orders and following one’s conscience features To m Cruise as a brash Navy la wyer who's teamed with a gung-ho litigator, p la yed by Demi Moore, in a politically explosive murder case.  Charged with defending two Marines accused of killing a fellow soldier, the two la wyers are confronted with the complex issues of loyalty and honor, including its most sacred code and its most formidable warrior, p la yed by Jack Nicholson.  Special bonus features include the following:

·         Director’s Commentary with Rob Reiner

·         Documentary: Code of Conduct

·         Featurette: From Stage to Screen

*Bonus material presented in Standard Definition

BLACK BOOK (2007) – Avai la ble September 25^th (DD)

In the darkest days of World War II, Jewish fugitives attempt to escape occupied Hol la nd – only to face a Nazi ambush.  Rachel Stein (Carice van Houten) alone survives the attack and joins the Dutch Resistance to avenge her family.  Unable to fully trust anyone, Rachel navigates a minefield of deception and becomes an enemy to both sides.  Black Book re la tes an untold story of World War II where the distinctions between good and evil become blurred by the complexities of human nature.  This poignant Blu-ray release offers an assortment of added-value features, including:

·         ‘Making-of’ featurette

·         Director’s Commentary

*Bonus material presented in Standard Definition

MEMOIRS OF A GEISHA – Avai la ble September 25^th (CAT)

A Cinderel la story like no other, Memoirs of a Geisha stars Ziyi Zhang, Ken Watanabe, Michelle Yeoh and Gong Li in a romantic epic about a house servant blossoming against all odds to become the most captivating geisha of her day.  The Blu-ray version of the film features the following:

·         Production Audio Commentary

·         Rob Marshall and John DeLuca Audio Commentary

·         Featurette: Sayuri’s Journey – From the Novel to the Screen

·         Featurette: The Road to Japan

·         Featurette: Geisha Bootcamp

·         Featurette: Building the Hanamachi

·         Featurette: The Look of Geisha

·         Featurette: The Music of “Memoirs”

·         Featurette: A Geisha’s Dance

·         Featurette: The World of the Geisha

·         Featurette: The Way of the Sumo

·         Featurette: Rob Marshall

·         Featurette: A Day With Chef Nobu Matsuhisa

·         Enhanced Photo Gallery (high definition)

·         Index

·         Blu-meter

·         Bookmarks

·         AV pop-up menus

*Except where noted, bonus material presented in Standard Definition

TEKKONKINKREET – Avai la ble September 25^th (DD)

A brutal elegy for our changing times as well as a tour-de-force of visual artistry, Tekkonkinkreet is a deeply resonant story with a heart.  The title Tekkonkinkreet is a p la y on the Japanese words for ‘concrete,’ ‘iron,’ and ‘muscle,’ and it suggests the warring images of

steel and concrete cities amassing against the powers of the imagination.  Added-value features on the Blu-ray version of the film include:

·         The Making of Tekkonkinkreet - Director Michael Arias’ 300-Day Diary

·         A Conversation with Director Michael Arias and British Music Duo Plaid

·         Filmmaker Commentary

·         Blu-meter

·         Bookmarks

·         AV pop-up menus

*Bonus material presented in Standard Definition

UNDERWORLD – Avai la ble September 25^th (CAT)

Kate Beckinsale and Scott Speedman star in this modern-day, action-packed tale of ruthless intrigue and forbidden passion set against the dazzling backdrop of a timeless, Gothic metropolis. Underworld on Blu-ray offers an assortment of added-value features, including:

·         Director and Cast Commentary

·         Blooper Reel: Outtakes

·         Documentary: Fang vs. Fiction

·         Featurette: Making-of ‘Underworld’

·         Featurette: The Visual Effects of ‘Underworld’

·         Featurette: Creature Effects

·         Featurette: Stunts

·         Featurette: Designing ‘Underworld’

·         Featurette: The Look of ‘Underworld’

·         Featurette: Sights and Sounds of ‘Underworld’

·         Storyboard Comparisons

·         Music Video: Finch – “Worms of the Earth”

*Bonus material presented in Standard Definition

Spider-Man(TM) 3, This Year's #1 Box-Office Blockbuster Debuts On Blu-ray(TM) High-Def, DVD & PSP October 30

"Spidey's back and better than ever!" - Scott Mantz, Access Hollywood

" ... solidly entertaining and possesses dazzling special effects ... " - Claudia Puig, USA Today

Tobey Maguire, Kirsten Dunst, James Franco, Thomas Haden Church, and Topher Grace Star in the $888 Million(1) Plus Worldwide Hit Directed by Sam Raimi

Over Six Hours of All-New Bonus Materials Including Bloopers and More Than 10 Featurettes

-- Spider-Man(TM) 3 becomes the home entertainment event of the year when Sony Pictures Home Entertainment (SPHE) releases the international blockbuster on DVD October 30, in time for the holiday gift-giving season. Spider-Man(TM) 3 will be available in several versions for fans to collect including a single-disc release, a two-disc Special Edition release, PSP, and a three-pack DVD release which will include Spider-Man(TM) and Spider-Man(TM) 2 on DVD with collectible O-Ring packaging. Also available is the Spider-Man(TM) High Definition Trilogy, a three-pack release of all three films on Blu-ray(TM) High-Def allowing fans an exclusive opportunity to collect both Spider-Man(TM) and Spider-Man(TM) 2 in high definition, along with Spider-Man(TM) 2.1 and Spider- Man(TM) 3. Spider-Man(TM) 3 will also be available as a stand-alone two-disc release on Blu-ray(TM) High-Def.

Grossing more than $888 million worldwide during its theatrical run, Spider-Man(TM) 3 set numerous records, including the biggest three-day total in box-office history ($151 million), biggest single day gross in box-office history ($59.8 million), and the #1 all-time worldwide opening ($231 million). Tobey Maguire (Seabiscuit, The Ice Storm), Kirsten Dunst (Marie Antoinette, Bring It On), James Franco (Annapolis), Academy Award(R) nominee Rosemary Harris (Best Actress, Tom & Viv, 1995), and J.K. Simmons (Thank You For Smoking) reprise their roles from the first two installments of the franchise under the direction of Sam Raimi (Spider-Man(TM), Spider-Man(TM) 2). Joining the cast are Academy Award(R) nominee Thomas Haden Church (Best Supporting Actor, Sideways, 2005), Topher Grace (In Good Company, Mona Lisa Smile), Bryce Dallas Howard (Lady in the Water, The Village), and Academy Award(R) nominee James Cromwell (Best Supporting Actor, Babe, 1996). The producers are Laura Ziskin (Spider-Man(TM), Spider-Man(TM) 2), Avi Arad (Spider-Man(TM), X-Men), and Grant Curtis (Spider-Man(TM), Spider-Man(TM) 2). The executive producers are Stan Lee, Kevin Feige (Spider-Man(TM) 2, X Men 2), and Joseph M. Caracciolo (Spider-Man(TM) 2, Charlie's Angels(R)).

The two-disc Spider-Man(TM) 3 Blu-ray(TM) High-Def and two-disc Special Edition DVD offer fans more than six hours of all-new bonus materials, including a trio of featurettes spotlighting the cinematic creation of the web crawler's greatest nemeses. Grains of Sand -- Building Sandman details the challenges Sony Pictures Imageworks faced in creating the iconic villain; Re-Imagining the Goblin explores the changes in the New Goblin character from page to screen; and Covered in Black -- Creating Venom follows the cinematic creation of Spider-Man's archrival.

The two-disc's added value also has a trio of features on the creation of the spectacular stunts in the movie: Hanging On ... Gwen Stacy & the Collapsing Floor, where stunt coordinator Scott Rogers explores the logistics of the dangerous stunt performed by Bryce Dallas Howard; Fighting, Flying & Driving -- The Stunts, wherein Stunt Coordinator/2nd Unit Director Dan Bradley and Stunt Coordinator Scott Rogers provide a behind-the-scenes peek at the various "gags" in the film; and Wall of Water where the viewer is taken into the creation of one of the biggest stunts in the film. In addition, the discs offer bloopers, a Snow Patrol music video, and two audio commentary tracks with cast and filmmakers.

About Spider-Man(TM) 3

Columbia Pictures' Spider-Man(TM) 3 reunites the cast and filmmakers from the first two blockbuster adventures for a web of excitement that transports worldwide audiences to thrilling new heights.

In Spider-Man(TM) 3, based on the legendary Marvel Comics series, Peter Parker has finally managed to strike a balance between his devotion to M.J. and his duties as a superhero. But there is a storm brewing on the horizon. When his Spider-Man suit suddenly changes, turning jet-black and enhancing his powers, it transforms Peter as well. Under the influence of the suit, Peter becomes prideful and overconfident and he begins to neglect the ones he cares about the most. As two of the most-feared villains yet, Sandman and Venom, gather unparalleled power and a thirst for retribution, Peter's greatest battle is the one within himself. Spider-Man will need to rediscover the compassion that makes him who he is: a hero.

Columbia Pictures Presents A Marvel Studios/Laura Ziskin Production Spider-Man(TM) 3 starring Tobey Maguire, Kirsten Dunst, James Franco, Thomas Haden Church, Topher Grace, Bryce Dallas Howard, James Cromwell, Rosemary Harris, and J.K. Simmons. The film is directed by Sam Raimi. The screenplay is by Sam Raimi & Ivan Raimi and Alvin Sargent and the screen story by Sam Raimi & Ivan Raimi and based on the Marvel Comic Book by Stan Lee and Steve Ditko. The producers are Laura Ziskin, Avi Arad, and Grant Curtis. The executive producers are Stan Lee, Kevin Feige, and Joseph M. Caracciolo.

Spider-Man(TM) 3 Special Features (Single-Disc DVD)

-- Digitally Mastered Audio and Video

-- Audio: English Dolby True HD 5.1, English PCM 5.1 (Uncompressed),

French, Spanish, Portuguese, Thai 5.1 (Dolby Digital)

-- Subtitles: English, English SDH, French, Spanish, Portuguese, Korean,

Thai, Chinese Mandarin, Chinese Cantonese

-- Bloopers

-- Photo Galleries

-- Snow Patrol Music Video

-- Audio Commentary with Director Sam Raimi and Cast Members Tobey

Maguire, Kirsten Dunst, James Franco, Thomas Haden Church, Topher

Grace, and Bryce Dallas Howard

-- Audio Commentary with Producers Laura Ziskin, Avi Arad and Grant

Curtis, Editor Bob Murawski and Special Effects Supervisor Scott

Stokdyk

-- Closed Captioned

-- Bonus Previews

Spider-Man(TM) 3 Two-Disc Special Edition DVD, Two-Disc Blu-ray(TM) High-Def

Disc One Special Features:

-- Digitally Mastered Audio and Video

-- Audio: English Dolby True HD 5.1, English PCM 5.1 (Uncompressed),

French, Spanish, Portuguese, Thai 5.1 (Dolby Digital)

-- Subtitles: English, English SDH, French, Spanish, Portuguese, Korean,

Thai, Chinese Mandarin, Chinese Cantonese

-- Bloopers

-- Photo Galleries

-- Snow Patrol Music Video

-- Audio Commentary with Director Sam Raimi and Cast Members Tobey

Maguire, Kirsten Dunst, James Franco, Thomas Haden Church, Topher

Grace, and Bryce Dallas Howard

-- Audio Commentary with Producers Laura Ziskin, Avi Arad and Grant

Curtis, Editor Bob Murawski and Special Effects Supervisor Scott

Stokdyk

-- Closed Captioned

-- Bonus Previews

Disc Two Special Features:

-- Digitally Mastered Audio and Video

-- Audio: English, Spanish 5.1 (Dolby Digital). English, Spanish (Dolby

Surround)

-- Subtitles: English, Spanish

-- Featurette: Grains of Sand -- Building Sandman

-- Featurette: Re-Imagining the Goblin

-- Featurette: Covered in Black -- Creating Venom

-- Featurette: Hanging On ... Gwen Stacy and the Collapsing Floor

-- Featurette: Fighting, Flying & Driving -- The Stunts

-- Featurette: Tangled Web: The Love Triangles of Spider-Man 3

-- Featurette: Wall Of Water

-- Featurette: On Location Cleveland -- The Chase on Euclid Avenue

-- Featurette: On Location New York -- From Rooftops to Backstreets

-- Featurette: The Science of Sound

-- Featurette: Inside The Editing Room

-- Theatrical TV Spots From Around the World

-- Closed Captioned

Spider-Man(TM) 3 has a run time of approximately 139 minutes and is rated PG-13 for sequences of intense action violence Spider-Man(TM) 3 DVD single-Disc Spider-Man(TM) 3 PSP

SLP: $28.97 SLP: $28.97

Spider-Man(TM) 3 DVD 2-Disc Spider-Man(TM) 3 Blu-ray(TM)

Special Edition High-Def 2-Disc

SLP: $36.95 SLP: $49.95

Spider-Man(TM) 3 Standard-Def Spider-Man(TM) Blu-ray(TM)

DVD 3-Pack High-Def 3-Pack

SLP: $38.96 SLP: $98.95

About Marvel Entertainment, Inc.

With a library of over 5,000 characters, Marvel Entertainment, Inc. (NYSE:MVL) is one of the world's most prominent character-based entertainment companies. Marvel's operations are focused on utilizing its character franchises in licensing, entertainment, publishing and toys. Areas of emphasis include feature films, DVD/home video, consumer products, video games, action figures and role-playing toys, television and promotions. Rooted in the creative success of over sixty years of comic book publishing, Marvel's strategy is to leverage its character franchises in a growing array of opportunities around the world. For more information visit www.marvel.com.

About Sony Pictures Home Entertainment

Sony Pictures Home Entertainment is a division of Sony Corporation of America, a subsidiary of Tokyo-based Sony Corporation. Sony Pictures Entertainment's global operations encompass motion picture production and distribution; television production and distribution; digital content creation and distribution; worldwide channel investments; home entertainment acquisition and distribution; operation of studio facilities; development of new entertainment products, services and technologies; and distribution of filmed entertainment in 67 countries. Sony Pictures Entertainment can be found on the World Wide Web at http://www.sonypictures.com/.

Source: Sony Pictures Home Entertainment

Web site: http://www.sonypictures.com/

Sony Pictures Television International's Global Animax Brand Goes Mobile

- Launches Flagship Mobile Brand On Bell Mobility In Canada And 3 Mobile in Australia

-- Sony Pictures Television International (SPTI) announced today that it is launching Animax Mobile in Canada and Australia, the first two markets in a global strategy to roll-out a dedicated mobile version of its popular Japanese anime channel currently available on TV via cable and satellite across Asia, Latin America, Central Europe and Germany. The announcement was made today by Marie Jacobson, SPTI's executive vice president, programming and production, international networks.

Animax Mobile is specifically designed for mobile TV viewing using mobile streaming technology. Targeting the 14-34 demographic the channel launched in Australia on 3 mobile on June 12 and will launch in Canada on Bell Mobility in July to users of 3G handsets with mobile video streaming capability.

At launch, Animax Mobile will offer a two-hour loop of four full-length anime series, Blood+, Last Exile, ROD the TV, and The Count of Monte Cristo. In an effort to create a destination mobile channel for a devoted fanbase, the series will be packaged with unique interstitial material, made-for-mobile trivia elements and the award-winning Animax graphic package. Short-form, cult animation series such as Petey and Jadey, relevant regional product such as TechnoMax and ImagineNation from Animax Asia showcasing the hottest new gadgets and real-life creative masterminds behind anime, movie special effects and videogames, and bonus features such as program guides, customized music and graphic ids will seamlessly package a world-class mobile service.

Animax Mobile is a dedicated channel for mobile handsets and is not a rebroadcast, simultaneous co-transmission or cut-down version of an existing television channel. With Animax Mobile, users will be able to enjoy their favorite anime series whenever they want, wherever they want.

Jacobson stated "Animax Mobile is the ideal launch pad for SPTI's multi-platform network strategy. Tailor-made for today's young adult mobile consumer, Animax Mobile builds on the brand loyalty of Animax and extends the consumer experience to a vast and loyal fanbase seeking anytime animé content and culture in current and emerging markets."

Added Bill Sanders, vice president, mobile network programming, "It's not about the big screen vs. the little screen. Often, it's a choice of small screen vs. no screen at all, and with Animax Mobile, we're able to bring some of Animax's most valuable programs to fans new and old at times and in places where they couldn't see them before."

About Animax

Animax is the first-ever channel dedicated to providing highly popular Japanese animation 24-hours-a-day, 7-days-a-week. Animax cable and satellite channels in Japan, South and Southeast Asia, Latin America, Korea, Central Europe and Germany broadcast 24 hours a day to 36 million homes in 38 countries and in 11 languages. Animax is part of Sony Pictures Television International's (SPTI) diverse portfolio of over 40 global networks. SPTI is a Sony Pictures Entertainment company.

About Sony Pictures Television International

Sony Pictures Television International (SPTI) is the division of Sony Pictures Entertainment (SPE) responsible for all television business outside of the United States. SPTI operates three complementary lines of business: 1) distribution of SPE's feature films and television programming to television, mobile and digital content delivery outlets around the world, 2) local television production in key international markets, and 3) international television networks. In addition to being a leader in the distribution of current and classic U.S. and international films and television product worldwide, SPTI produces high profile, locally produced television in local languages. With dedicated offices in France, Germany, Hong Kong, Italy, Miami (Latin America), the People's Republic of China, Russia, Spain and the United Kingdom, SPTI currently oversees production in nine regions of the world and is the leader in international television production among all major Hollywood studios. SPTI's worldwide television networks portfolio is a key strategy in the SPE's long-range commitment to the global marketplace, with over 40 networks in more than 130 countries reaching over 298 million viewers worldwide. SPTI is a Sony Pictures Entertainment company.

Sony Pictures Studios to Offer Twilight Tours

Visitors Can Discover One Of World's Most Famous Studio Lots On Thursday Evenings From June 14 To September 28

- Sony Pictures Studios announced today that beginning June 14, visitors will be able to take Twilight Tours of the historic studio every Thursday through September 28th.
 

"From The Wizard of Oz to Spider-Man 3, this is the lot where dreams are made," said Pam Byrne, Director of Studio Services. "Now people can enjoy warm summer evenings by experiencing the glamour and history of Sony Pictures Studios. Our Twilight Tours offer the perfect opportunity to treat family, friends and out-of-town guests to a one-of-a-kind, unforgettable Hollywood experience."
 

The tours last approximately 90 minutes and begin at 6:30 p.m. in the lobby of Sony Pictures Plaza. Free parking is available under the Sony Pictures Plaza building off Madison Avenue in Culver City, between West Washington Boulevard and Culver Boulevard.
 

"This is a working studio, so people walking the lot during their tour may have a chance to see an actual set for a motion picture or television show or, on occasion, actors and extras on the lot for a shoot," said Byrne. "Our visitors also get to see where real Hollywood history was made, from Stage 15 where the Yellow Brick Road once wound through Munchkin Land to Stage 30 where Esther Williams made a splash in the early 1940's. In addition, guests can see props like the motorcycles from Ghost Rider, the neuralizer from Men in Black, the proton pack from Ghostbusters, and the Cryptex from The DaVinci Code, among many others cinema icons."
 

The Twilight Tour begins with a video about the studio's history. From there guests walk through the Madison Gate, tracing the footsteps of famous stars who made history throughout the lot. Visitors can often see actual Oscar(R) statuettes celebrating a number of Columbia Pictures' "Best Picture" awards, as well as Scoring and Foley stages, and the sets of shows like Wheel of Fortune and Jeopardy.
 

Movies were first made on the site of Sony Pictures Studios back in 1915, when Ince/Triangle Studios set up shop there. It was taken over by famous Hollywood pioneers D.W. Griffith and Mack Sennett and later sold to Samuel Goldwyn. In 1924, MGM Studios began making movies on the lot and continued for nearly sixty years. Sony Pictures acquired the site in 1990 and began a rehabilitation of the studio that was completed in 1997.
 

Sony Pictures Entertainment is currently the #1 studio in Hollywood in domestic box office receipts. Over the past year, it has released such popular films as The Da Vinci Code, Click, Talladega Nights: The Ballad Of Ricky Bobby, Casino Royale, Ghost Rider and Spider-Man 3.
 

For more information about the Twilight Tours, or to make reservations, please call 310-520-TOUR (8687) or 323-520-TOUR (8687). Admission is $25 per person. Discounted rates for group and student tours are available. Children 12 and older are welcome. Dress weather appropriate, and this is a walking tour, so please wear comfortable footwear. Sony Pictures Studios also offers tours during the day, Monday-to-Friday. Sony Pictures Studios is located at 10202 West Washington Boulevard, Culver City, CA 90232. For further information and directions to the studio, visit http://www.sonypicturesstudios.com/.

 

Web site: http://www.sonypicturesstudios.com/

-- Sony Online Entertainment LLC (SOE), a global leader in the online games industry, today announced that registration is open for its annual Fan Faire event being held on August 2-4, 2007 at the Rio Hotel in Las Vegas. The SOE Fan Faire is a real-life social event held annually to allow gamers from around the world the chance to meet in person with other members of their online community. The event is filled with colorful costumes, passionate players and gigabytes of activity, making it the vacation destination of choice for players of SOE's most popular games. Fan Faire attendees will also be treated to the world debut of SOE's new online game.

"Fan Faire is an example of SOE's commitment to our dedicated and passionate fan base of players," said Alan Crosby, Director of Community Relations, Sony Online Entertainment. "A majority of this year's attendees will have been actively playing our titles for many years and this event is a terrific opportunity to provide them with a 'thank you' in the form of a fun-filled and community-driven weekend experience."

In addition to enjoying the game-oriented environment, attendees at SOE's Fan Faire 2007 are scheduled to be treated to a welcome reception at the Rio's famous Voodoo Lounge, a poolside party, the SOE player 'Hall of Fame' inductions and ceremony, and How-To forums, including a special workshop for game enthusiasts interested in breaking into the industry. Fan Faire attendees will also have the opportunity to meet the development teams behind some of the world's most successful online PC games. With special activities being planned for each game, attendees should quickly fill their schedules. For the first time, this year's SOE Fan Faire will feature Vanguard: Saga of Heroes, Star Wars Galaxies and The Matrix Online in addition to EverQuest, EverQuest II, EverQuest Online Adventures and PlanetSide. In addition, Fan Faire plans to showcase a hands-on demo of Gods & Heroes: Rome Rising(TM), the new massively-multiplayer online game being co-published by Platform Publishing and Perpetual Entertainment, scheduled for release this fall.

This year's Fan Faire promises to deliver a weekend packed with activities and adventure for everyone ranging from casual gaming fans to entire guilds of vacationing gamers who bring their whole family along on this quest for excitement. Game-related activities will include tournaments of multiple SOE titles, costume contests, a silent auction for game memorabilia, real-life quests throughout the venue, and exclusive 'sneak peeks' at upcoming products from SOE. With attendance projected to be in excess of 1500 of gaming's most dedicated fans, Fan Faire 2007 will be the vacation destination of choice for online gaming enthusiasts.

For more information on Sony Online Entertainment's Fan Faire 2007 or to register visit: http://www.soe.fanfaire.com/

About Sony Online Entertainment

Sony Online Entertainment LLC (SOE) is a recognized worldwide leader in massively multiplayer online games, with hundreds of thousands of subscribers around the globe. SOE creates, develops and provides compelling entertainment for the personal computer, online, game console and wireless markets. Known for its blockbuster franchises and hit titles including EverQuest(R), EverQuest(R) II, Champions of Norrath(R), Untold Legends(TM), and PlanetSide(R), as well as for developing Star Wars Galaxies(TM), SOE continues to redefine the business of online gaming and the creation of active player communities while introducing new genres on various entertainment platforms. Headquartered in San Diego, CA, with additional development studios in Austin, TX, Los Angeles, CA, Denver, CO, Seattle, WA, and Taiwan, SOE has an array of cutting-edge games in development. SOE is owned by Sony Pictures Digital and Sony Computer Entertainment America.

SOE, the SOE logo, EverQuest and PlanetSide are registered trademarks of Sony Online Entertainment LLC. Untold Legends is a trademark of Sony Online Entertainment LLC.

About Perpetual Entertainment Inc.

Gods & Heroes: Rome Rising, Perpetual Entertainment and the logos for each are trademarks of Perpetual Entertainment, Inc. (C) 2007 Perpetual Entertainment, Inc. All rights reserved. Platform Publishing and the Platform Publishing logo are trademarks of Sony Online Entertainment LLC. All rights reserved. Star Wars Galaxies is a registered trademark of Lucasfilm Ltd. Star Wars Galaxies is a registered trademark of Lucasfilm Entertainment Company Ltd. (C)2002-2007 Lucasfilm Entertainment Company Ltd. or Lucasfilm Ltd. & (R) or TM as indicated. All rights reserved.

THE MATRIX ONLINE, characters, names and all related indicia are trademarks of and (C) Warner Bros. Entertainment Inc.

All other trademarks and trade names are properties of their respective owners.

Source: Sony Online Entertainment

Web site: http://www.soe.fanfaire.com/