Front Row to bring new film releases exclusively to digital platforms in the Middle East

Jesse Eisenberg's 'Resistance' is one of the first films to receive a digital release in the region

Jesse Eisenberg in a scene from the new film 'Resistance'.

In light of the coronavirus pandemic, Front Row Entertainment, a regional distributor, has announced it will premiere new cinema releases directly on digital platforms across the Middle East, with Jesse Eisenberg's Resistance being the first to release on Monday, April 13.

The film, which was scheduled to come out in cinemas on Thursday, April 9, is set during the Second World War and tells the untold story of French entertainer Marcel Marceau, who before becoming a famous mime, joined the French Resistance to save thousands of orphaned children from the Nazis. The film also stars Ed Harris.

The film will be available to buy and rent on iTunes, Google Play, beIN On Demand, OSN Store as well as all local platforms including Du, Etisalat E-Vision, Ooredoo, Vodafone, and OmanTel.

“Front Row is strongly committed to theatrical exhibition,” said Gianluca Chakra, founder and CEO of Front Row Entertainment, in a statement. “However, Covid-19 has quarantined Mena moviegoers and, given these uncertain times, it’s useless to stall on releases and deprive moviegoers of fresh premium content. The world hasn’t stopped. It’s changing, and so are viewing habits which dictate new business models.”

Chakra added: “During these past weeks, we have seen the VOD numbers increase by almost 300 per cent.  Premiering what were to be theatrical releases on these same platforms will only increase the demand and eventually solidify the rapport with the consumers. We are ready for this. Our business model has always been prepared for this shift. The phase we are all living in is only speeding this transition.”

Other video-on-demand premieres include The Truth, starring Ethan Hawke, and releases on Tuesday, April 28. Other films to be released include Endings, Beginnings; Misbehaviour; Military Wives and The Assistant, although no dates have been given as of yet.

For information about the latest releases, visit www.frontrowent.com