Amazon.com, Microsoft Team for HD DVD Initiative

SEATTLE/REDMOND, July 2: Amazon.com and Microsoft Corp. have
launched the 1,000 HD DVD Indies Project, designed to make it easier for
independent filmmakers to produce and distribute movies in the HD DVD format.

The project will provide free authoring and setup services
for up to 1,000 selected indie titles using CustomFlix DVD on Demand
technology, which produces and ships DVDs as they are ordered. Sundance Channel
will be reviewing the high-definition features for potential broadcast on the
network as well as making its own HD original eco-series, Big Ideas for a
Small Planet, available for purchase
through Amazon's HD DVD program.

"This collaboration with Microsoft is a great
opportunity for independent filmmakers to reach Amazon customers with their
films via the HD DVD format," said Peter Faricy, the VP of music and
movies at Amazon.com. "By working together with Microsoft and leveraging
the proven CustomFlix DVD on Demand model, we can lower the barriers to entry
for independent filmmakers and dramatically increase the selection we offer our
customers."

"Programs like this one from Amazon lower barriers to
entry for independent artists and provide audiences with increased access to
high-quality, high-definition content," added Christian Vesper, the senior
VP of programming, acquisitions and scheduling for Sundance Channel.