If you were previously unconvinced that VHX is out to remodel the internet cinema landscape for the better, a recent announcement just may do the trick. The self-distribution provider -- already instrumental in the release of such direct-to-audience success stories as Indie Game: The Movie (a key tale to be told for independent filmmakers) and a proponent of a revolutionary new model of self-release philosophy -- is now offering another first. As of today, December 11, the joint Drafthouse Films and VHX-powered re-release of midnight movie/underground martial arts film Miami Connection (with physical media such as VHS, a first and maybe only for a VHX release) is now underway -- and any non-enthusiasts of Taekwondo, ninjas, B-movie swagger, and what appears to be among the greatest films ever made, need not apply.
Here's the main beef of the scoop, straight from Drafthouse Films:
VHX co-founder Casey Pugh said, “We're thrilled to be working with the Drafthouse team on Miami Connection. We are all huge fans of the film, and are excited to do everything we can to help more people experience this unique treasure containing ninja standoffs, righteous guitar moments, and heartwarmingly sincere friendships. Like Drafthouse, VHX is committed to bringing artists' work to the fans. We strongly believe in the Drafthouse ethos of quality films and awesome audience experience. We are thrilled to help them develop and uphold these values as we continue to work together (and against the ninja).”
“We very greatly impressed with the work VHX did with Indie Game: The Movie,” says Drafthouse Films COO James Emanuel Shapiro, “and we were grateful that they responded so well to Miami Connection. We believe we will be friends for eternity, honesty, loyalty and do great things together with this thunder-raging classic!”
Here's a breakdown from MiamiConnection.org of exactly what the 'pricier' options offer:
That's right -- one of the primary physical media versions you can (yes, physically) own is a limited-edition VHS copy. VHX (not to be confused with... well, I'm sure you get it, by now) has already proven their willingness to help out the distribution of a film in whatever way fits, by supporting what peripheral modes of proliferation work best for the idea of the film in question. To bring up the prime example, again, Indie Game marked the first (and so far, only) film of any kind released on Steam, and in the same vein, it may be a crime not to offer a film like Miami Connection on a home medium such as VHS. Furthermore, the soundtrack is available in various media as well, including vinyl -- the classic-format releases look to be extremely limited, though, so if the trailer for this film made you feel special inside, reach out now and get your "Oh My God!" Edition copy (which comes with free bragging rights) now.
Miami Connection was co-written and co-directed by Y. K. Kim, Taekwondo master and the star of the film. You will continue to have "Against the Ninja" by Dragon Sound stuck in your head for the rest of your day.
What kind of step do you guys think this represents in this era of internet-based distribution? What about the film, are you glad VHX is dedicated to the preservation of such underground classics?
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