Netflix, Weinstein Co. Unveil Multi-Year Streaming Deal for Films Including 'The Artist'

NEW YORK -- Netflix and The Weinstein Co. said Tuesday that they have struck a multiyear licensing agreement that will make foreign-language, documentary and certain other movies, including Oscar best picture nominee The Artist, exclusively available for Netflix streaming subscribers in the U.S.

our editor recommends

Michael Moore, Harvey Weinstein Settle 'Fahrenheit 9/11' Lawsuit

The Weinstein Co. and Relativity Settle Legal Battle Over Remake of 'The Crow'

With the deal, whose financial terms weren't disclosed, The Artist "will make its pay TV debut exclusively on Netflix rather than on traditional premium cable," the companies said. It is TWC's first deal with the streaming video powerhouse.

Also making its pay TV premiere on Netflix will be Undefeated. The film about an inner-city high-school football team is nominated for an Academy Award for best documentary feature. 
 
Other TWC specialty films that will appear exclusively on Netflix within one year of their theatrical releases include French-language World War II drama Sarah's Key with Kristin Scott Thomas, French hit The Intouchables, romantic drama W.E., directed by Madonna, and Shakespeare adaptation Coriolanus.

"We couldn't be happier to be working again with Harvey and Bob, who have an unmatched track record of creating critically acclaimed and commercially successful movies," said Netflix chief content officer Ted Sarandos.

"It is a fantastic coup for Netflix to acquire The Artist and the package of additional titles," said TWC co-chairman Harvey Weinstein, "With this deal, a company that loves movies, Netflix, joins forces with a company that is built on that same love. It's exciting that we can offer consumers a supremely convenient way to see the kinds of movies that made us want to be in this business in the first place."

Email: Georg.Szalai@thr.com

Twitter: @georgszalai