Amazon Unveils Video Direct Service

SEATTLE: Amazon Video Direct (AVD) is a brand-new self-service program for creators and storytellers that allows them to make their video content available to Amazon customers, including Prime members.

With AVD, video providers have a range of self-service options for distributing their content. For example, their videos can be included in Prime Video at no additional charge, be made available as an add-on subscription through the Streaming Partners Program, or be offered as a one-time rental price or a one-time purchase price. The content could also be made available to all Amazon customers ad-supported.

AVD launch partners include Samuel Goldwyn Films, Mattel, StyleHaul, Machinima, TYT Network, CJ Entertainment America and Xive TV.

“It’s an amazing time to be a content creator,” said Jim Freeman, the VP of Amazon Video. “There are more options for distribution than ever before and with Amazon Video Direct, for the first time, there’s a self-service option for video providers to get their content into a premium streaming subscription service. We’re excited to make it even easier for content creators to find an audience, and for that audience to find great content.”

Amazon has also kicked off the AVD Stars program, which gives video creators a share of $1 million per month based on customer engagement with their title.

“We are thrilled to bring a selection of our premium original series, including Emmy-nominated Vanity, to one of the premiere ad-free subscription services,” said Mia Goldwyn, the chief content officer of StyleHaul. “We believe Amazon Prime members will enjoy the unique female voices featured in our content and be inspired by the fashion and beauty that our brand embodies.”

“Amazon Video Direct helps us reach fans of our beloved preschool brands, including classic Thomas & Friends, Barney & Friends, Angelina Ballerina, Fireman Sam and Pingu, and get the content in front of Prime members faster than ever and into new territories,” said Andrea Carpenter, the senior director of global content marketing and distribution at Mattel. “The upload and publishing process is easy and fast, and we can directly monitor our streaming performance through our online dashboard.”

“As a major, independently owned and operated motion-picture company, we’re excited to have the ability to distribute our films to Amazon customers around the globe,” said Peter Goldwyn, the president of Samuel Goldwyn Films. “With Amazon Video Direct, we have the control to create the unique distribution strategies that reflect the changing ways in which our audiences discover our films. We can seamlessly make all our movies like Hyena Road, Somm: Into the Bottle and Havana Motor Club available to watch when and where our audiences want them. With Amazon Prime Video we have found an amazing home for films like The Benefactor with Richard Gere and Takeshi Miike’s Yakuza Apocalypse.”