RealNetworks, New Line in Rings Deal
Fraser Rolfe

Web connected Tolkein fans have another resource to help while away the 47 weeks remaining until the first instalment of Lord of the Rings reaches New Zealand theatres.

Seattle-based Web media specialist RealNetworks and New Line Cinema have signed a four-year agreement to promote the trilogy.

The deal will see New Line use RealNetworks video streaming technology on its website to offer film trailers, interviews with cast and crew, and behind-the-scenes footage from the making of the three films.

Visitors will need the RealNetworks' RealPlayer software to see and hear the audio and video clips.

RealPlayer 8 is available for download from the RealNetworks website, and costs US$30 (about NZ$60).

RealNetworks Australia & New Zealand managing director Chris Jacobson says about 3.5 million Australians and New Zealanders use RealNetworks' software.

The Lord of the Rings trailer is already available, and New Line says the website will be updated with new content every week.

The deal extends till 2005, when the trilogy will have finished in theatres and be released on video and DVD.

The new channel is accessible through New Line's official Lord of the Rings website at: www.lordoftherings.net