Italy: Sony launching second FTA channel
July 3, 2017
Sony Pictures Television Networks will launch Cine Sony in Italy on September 7th, a new Free-To-Air channel dedicated to the world of cinema airing on LCN 55.
Sony Pictures Television Networks is expanding its FTA footprint and increasing investment in the Italian market with Cine Sony following the launch of kids’ channel, POP on LCN 45 in May.
Cine Sony will launch with the FTApremiere of Captain Phillips, starring the Academy Award Winner Tom Hanks, and offer a slate of both new and classic movies ranging from L’uomo delle Stelle, to Jerry Maguire and Spiderman 3, along with revealing documentaries and specially commissioned programmes exploring the history and culture of cinema.
Cine Sony’s first commissions, La Fabbrica dei Sogni and Cine Classic will be produced by Coming Soon in Rome. La Fabbrica dei Sogni is a programme dedicated to the history of Italian cinema presented by author and web editor Antonio Bracco and film critic Federico Gironi; while Cine Classic delves into the history of the Hollywood movie, presented by the author, radio and TV presenter LaMario.
The Italian expansion also follows key FTA investments in the UK where Sony Pictures Television Networks owns and operates the No.1 commercial kids channel and the No.2 and No 3 FTA film channels in the territory.
“We’re thrilled to launch Cine Sony in Italy as part of our expansion in Free-To-Air and are excited to be adding our second channel as we build our portfolio in this key European market.,” said Kate Marsh, Executive Vice President, Western Europe for Sony Pictures Television Networks. “Cine Sony will be a unique take on the world of cinema combining film, documentary and commentary. It will celebrate the world of cinema in Italy, a country that is rich in cinema heritage.”
Sony Pictures Television Networks also announced today that Viacom International Media Networks Pubblicità & Brand Solutions will represent advertising sales for Cine Sony, with Persidera providing DTT capacity.
Cine Sony replaces Capri Gourmet, which Sony Pictures Television Networks acquired in April 2017.