Digital Cinema Services - Connecting studios to theatres

Workflow Model

There are many steps in the process for getting movies from filmmakers to audiences in theatres. The diagram shown in figure 1 is a graphical representation of the overall workflow process model from a very high-level point of view. There are five layers in the overall system.

 

Workflow Diagram

Filmmakers, Distributors and Exhibitors Marketplace

The first layer, at the center of figure 1, depicts the marketplace where filmmakers, distributors and exhibitors negotiate their deals. This marketplace need not be different from the current marketplace system, although changes might evolve from the introduction of digital cinema technologies. It is in layer one that filmmakers would negotiate the terms of distribution and distributors would negotiate the terms of exhibition.

Contracts

Layer two shows the resulting contract terms and conditions passing along from layer one, and propagating to the necessary modules in layer three. While quite simple in its depiction in figure 1, this layer is a pivotal point in the workflow model. Not only does it drive the operations module in layer three, it also receives data back from layer five to confirm what was actually exhibited in theatres.

Central Operations

Processes shown in layer three are complex, as they involve asset management, scheduling, rights clearances, security and reconciliation, among many other functions. These processes get to the heart of the differences between a film-based workflow and digital cinema-based workflow. While not highlighted in figure 1, the asset management module is crucial to this layer in the workflow process. The process included in layer three can be automated, possibly by adapting automation systems designed for multi-channel television operations.

Transport

The method of delivery for movies is layer four in figure 1. Note that this layer is divided into two parts: media transport and signaling/datatransport. Media transport can be accomplished with physical media or via a broadband network. A TCP/IP data network is shown for control signaling, security and business data transfers. The transport layer is the interface between the central operations in layer three and the exhibition processes in layer five.

Exhibition

The fifth layer of figure 1 includes physical interfaces to exhibition systems in theatres. These interfaces include two separate data network interfaces: one for control, transactions and statistical data transfers; the second for media distribution. There is also an interface to connect a central library of files with local theatre storage systems. Master schedules from layer three are picked up in the local schedule module in layer five. Another key interface supports the theatres' projectors and sound systems. Of particular interest to most movie industry participants is the Security module.

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Last updated: 24 April 2003