HOLLYWOOD — YouTube co-founder Chad Hurley is speaking tonight (photo above) at the YouTube kick-off event for its new film program featuring shortform films from filmmakers from around the globe.
He told the audience of Hollywood insiders gathered at the Henry Fonda Theater a few minutes ago:
"It is about expanding business opportunities for filmmaker… We want to encourage sales of DVDs for filmmakers through external links."
Speaking about the value of an improved player, he added: "With new viewing options through AppleTV, TiVo, etc, the high quality player will fulfill the growing demand for quality content."
Here’s what the company says in a press release about the new player and functionality:
The
YouTube Screening Room will also include a "Buy Now" button, allowing
filmmakers to link to websites selling DVDs and digital downloads of
their films, as well as a High Quality player, which offers users the
best viewing experience possible.
The above quotes of Chad are from notes from our producer who is at the Henry Fonda Theater. We are taping the speeches and several one-on-one interviews. Our videos will be posted on Friday. Stay tuned to the purple channel!
Update: Michael Learmonth at Silicon Alley Insider has an update. Here’s Chris Albrecht’s take over at NewTeeVee.
— Andy Plesser
