World\'s First Indie UMD Label Launches
The first label devoted exclusively to the release of independent content for UMD has just opened in Venice, CA.* Aptly named Silver Platter, in reference to the shiny optical discs the company distributes, as well as their unique ability - utilizing a diverse network of partnerships - to make the production of content for UMD as easy as possible.
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The label's exclusive focus is to develop, acquire, market and distribute content solely for UMD (Universal Media Disc). Currently, the UMD format is most prevalent in Sony's PlayStation Portable (PSP), however new devices from other manufacturers are in rapid development. Recently, the PSP sold out during the first days of its retail release within the UK. In only 9 months, more than 5 million units have been shipped worldwide.
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Launched by DVD industry veteran and interactive media pioneer Blaine Graboyes, in partnership with his business manager Andrew Cohen, the company brings together a unique set of resources in licensing and acquisitions, design and production, sponsorship, marketing, PR, and proven success in non-traditional sales outlets, that combine to make Silver Platter a strong player in the UMD market.
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Graboyes will personally oversee creative development and production of all titles through an exclusive relationship with DVD and new media production powerhouse Comchoice. Based in Los Angeles, Comchoice has a sterling reputation in the field, and a diverse list of high-profile Hollywood clients. Mr. Cohen will manage business development and sales, and is also developing relationships with the current leaders in International UMD Distribution.
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Silver Platter plans for over 50 UMD releases in 2005-2006, which will be nationally distributed in stores such as Amazon, Barnes & Noble, Best Buy, Blockbuster, Borders, Circuit City, Hollywood Video, Netflix, Target, Tower Records and Video, Virgin Megastore and Wal-Mart.
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The first group of titles will be Action Sports releases and will reach stores on December 27, 2005. Distribution will be in all major retailers and online sites, and will be supported by a range of events, launch parties, marketing partnerships, premiums, and sales in such non-traditional outlets as skate shops, clothing boutiques and specialty stores.
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·** "Teddybear Crisis" - Featuring three perennial X-Games medalist such as Tanner Hall and Simon Dumont
·** Girl Skateboards "Yeah Right" - Co-Directed by Spike Jonze and featuring skits with Owen Wilson
·** 1242 Presents "Community Project Snow" – With the infamous Travis Rice, easily the best rider today
·** DC Shoes "The DC Video"- with footage of Danny Way's historic jumps over the Great Wall of China
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Titles will be released in themed groups of 4 or 5 titles in genres such as Music, Auto, Shorts, Urban, Anime, Girls, Docs, and Travel. In addition, Cohen will tap into his extensive corporate relationships to attach sponsors to existing releases and to create original casual gaming and short form video content through various promotions.
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"The opportunity for content owners on UMD is enormous, if done in a timely and proper manner," says Graboyes who has been involved in DVD since 1996, and has been instrumental in the launch of other new formats and product lines. "The PSP / UMD does everything everyone has always wanted, and it does it all so perfectly – a high-quality digital entertainment experience with Internet connectivity and simple-to-use but powerful interactive capabilities. Sony will guarantee that there are millions and millions of PSP users out there who are eager for exciting independent content – and Silver Platter is here to deliver!"
http://www.PSPHome.com/index.php?do=viewarticle&id=420
World\'s First Indie UMD Label Launches 
