VH1 to Be Cool via Sony Deal

VH1, in a deal with Sony Corp. of America, has acquired the network-premiere rights to Be Cool, the Get Shorty theatrical sequel starring John Travolta and Uma Thurman, network officials said.

In fact, VH1 also licensed 1995’s Get Shorty, also with Travolta (and Danny DeVito), and the network will have the first opportunity to show both titles in tandem, according to senior vice president of programming strategy Ben Zurier.

“We licensed Be Cool because it has the fantastic combination of John Travolta, who is an icon for the VH1 audience, and a really fascinating story set in the music business. And terrific cameos from the likes of Steven Tyler,” Zurier added.

VH1’s window comes after premium-channel airings, and it is likely to join the network’s schedule during the fall of 2007, Zurier said.

Be Cool was produced by Metro-Goldwyn-Mayer Inc., Jersey Films and Double Feature Films, and it was in cinemas earlier this year. Get Shorty came from MGM and Jersey Films.