Film/TV
Vubiquity Partners With Cuban TV/Digital Network
Story Highlights
By Chris Tribbey
Multiplatform video services company Vubiquity has been tapped by a start-up network that will be the nation’s first to deliver multi-platform content dedicated mostly to Cuba.
CubaNetwork will launch with thousands of hours of exclusive and original programming (in both English and Spanish) from Havana, Cuba, and will be offered as both a linear cable network and as VOD. The channel’s become possible thanks to eased relations between the U.S. and Cuba, according to partner company RTV Comercial of Cuba (RTVC). Vubiquity will provide content preparation services including encoding and storefront delivery, localization from Spanish to English subtitling, and metadata development. Vubiquity will also handle all digital storefront management services.
“The ability to work together to bring what is extremely exclusive content produced in Cuba and previously not made available elsewhere along with new, topical content to be produced in country, is ground-breaking,” said Vubiquity CEO Darcy Antonellis, in a statement. “We plan to use Vubiquity’s ANYVU Cloud platform and OTT user experience to deliver thousands of hours of programming to engage consumers via a comprehensive end-to-end solution.”
CubaNetwork will have its headquarters in Hollywood, Calif., an English-language production location in Havana, and will serve as an exclusive importer of historical, current and new series from the island nation. CubaNetwork and RTVC will co-produce English-language programs, including a live, daily show featuring news, sports and local stories. And some programming will be available on CubaNetwork’s multi-platform offerings — CubaNetwork Everywhere — including VOD and via a new mobile app.
“There’s never been a greater thirst to experience the rich, exotic and vibrant culture of Cuba. That’s why we are launching a new entertainment brand that will serve as a powerful destination for digital video online and on cable with compelling content for the U.S. consumer,” said CubaNetwork CEO Keith Bass. “Right now, Cuba is the coolest, most compelling place on the planet. The moment is ripe for CubaNetwork.”
