pzg

BBC Films

Normally a film is exhibited first in cinemas. After 6 months starts the 'video window'; the film is distributed in video for sale or rent. This window lasts for 6 months normally. After this window, the exhibition rights go to pay-per-view for a maximum of 3 months. After that window there is normally an imposed 'black-out' of between 3 and 6 months. Then starts the 'pay TV windows'. The first pay TV window is for 12 months. After the end of the first window there is a second TV window which lasts a maximum of 6 months. This second window often coincides with the start of the exhibition of the movie on FTA television like the BBC, ITV, C4 and C5.
In the case of european films, the 'video window' can be shortened and the 'black-out' period can be eliminated.

(Source: 1999 IPO of Sogecable (Canal + España Parent company)).