Burbank, Calif., August 6, 2009 — Warner Home Video has announced a moratorium initiative that will see North American sales on three best-selling titles frozen for the last four months of the year. The moratorium begins September 4 and includes Video-on-Demand, Electronic Sell Through and all digital delivery. The titles will then be re-introduced at various dates throughout 2010 in new editions celebrating a confluence of events: anniversaries, stunning remasterings, and spectacular new Blu-ray debuts.
The titles include:
– CADDYSHACK (anticipating the first Blu-ray release for its 30th anniversary) Caddyshack did for golf what Animal House did for college fraternities and Police Academy did for law enforcement. Starring Bill Murray, Chevy Chase, Rodney Dangerfield and Ted Knight, with Harold Ramis directing, the movie was included in the AFI’s lists of top comedies and sports films, and has sold more than 3 million videos, to date.
– THE EXORCIST (anticipating the first Blu-ray release and Special Edition DVD)
The film that reinvented the horror genre, The Exorcist delivered a cultural earthquake that is still felt today, shocking and enthralling audiences. Directed by William Friedkin and written by William Peter Blatty (from his best-selling novel), The Exorcist won two Academy Awardsâ with another 8 nominations and inspired an entire franchise of sequels and prequels.
– DOCTOR ZHIVAGO (anticipating the first Blu-ray release for its 45th anniversary) David Lean’s landmark film, winner of five Academy Awards, represents epic moviemaking at its best and is one of the top ten U.S. grossing films of all time (#8, adjusted for inflation). With its gripping story, brilliant cinematography, magnificent locations, one of the most memorable music scores in history and stellar cast, Doctor Zhivago appeals to movie lovers of all ages. (Doctor Zhivago is currently on moratorium.)
Stated Jeff Baker, WHV’s Executive VP and General Manager, Theatrical Catalog: “As the saying goes, ‘absence makes the heart grow fonder.’ We know film fans will be eagerly awaiting the return in 2010 of these iconic films. And we’re going to make it worth the wait, with beautiful remastered prints, recovered previously lost footage, and exciting new bonus content all with the latest Blu-ray technology.”
