Direct-to-video

Several terms redirect here. For other uses, see Direct to Video (Roseanne) and Straight to DVD (album).

Direct-to-video or straight-to-video refers to the release of a film, television series, short or special to the public immediately on home video formats rather than an initial theatrical release[1] or television premiere. This distribution strategy was prevalent before streaming platforms came to dominate the TV and movie distribution markets.

Because inferior sequels or prequels of larger-budget films may be released direct-to-video, review references to direct-to-video releases are often pejorative.[2] Direct-to-video release has also become profitable for independent filmmakers and smaller companies.[3] Some direct-to-video genre films (with a high-profile star) can generate well in excess of $50 million revenue worldwide.[4]

  1. ^ Alvarez, Max J (30 December 1994). "Big Names Look For Bright Lights In Videoland". Chicago Tribune. Retrieved 7 December 2010.
  2. ^ Clements, Jonathan; McCarthy, Helen (9 February 2015). The Anime Encyclopedia, 3rd Revised Edition: A Century of Japanese Animation (Third ed.). Stone Bridge Press. pp. 195–196. ISBN 978-1-61172-018-1.
  3. ^ Lerman, Laurence (17 September 2001). "Independents' 'Bread and Butter'". Video Business. 21 (38). Section: Video Premieres.
  4. ^ DVD Exclusive Online. "Stars, Money Migrate To DVDP (archived)". Archived from the original on 15 May 2006. Retrieved 13 January 2007.