Direct-to-video

A film that is released direct-to-video (also straight-to-video) is one which has been released to the public on home video formats first rather than first being released in movie theaters. In recent years, companies have increasingly released movies in DVD format rather than VHS.

Television spin-offs

The popular British soap opera Coronation Street has spawned a number of straight-to-video spin-off productions which were only screened on television after having been available in shops for some time, as an incentive to buyers. The first "exclusive" tape, released in 1995 featuring a storyline aboard the QE2, caused a legal controversy when it was later broadcast. Subsequent releases have included carefully worded statements concerning future television broadcasting.

Related Topics:
British - Coronation Street - 1995 - QE2

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Two other British soaps, Emmerdale and Brookside, have also had spin offs for the home video market. "Unifinished Business" concluded a Brookside storyline after the soap opera ended in November 2003.

Related Topics:
Emmerdale - Brookside - November - 2003

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During its long run, Baywatch also released several of the show's season finales on tape.

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