Surf, Browse, Action!
Comcast continues to beef up its digital portfolio, adding Fandango to a cache that includes FearNet.com and U-G content site Ziddio.com. The MSO said it acquired Fandango.com—a site offering movie reviews, news and a ticket purchase option—because of its popularity (4-5mln unique visitors/month) and to complement Fancast.com, a similar property slated for a summer launch. Comcast says Fancast will be a destination where browsers may "learn about, plan for and manage their entertainment experience." Think of it as a melding of services offered by IMBD.com and TVGuide.com, as users will be able to search by favorite film and TV stars for complete credit info and listings of various media featuring the actor. For example, search Robert Duvall to find where clips or movies in which he appears can be viewed online, on TV and even via cable VOD. Movie tickets will also be available for purchase on the site. Comcast Interactive Media will manage both Fancast and Fandango, which will continue to be led by CEO Chuck Davis. Banc of America Securities advised Fandango in the deal, which is expected to close in 2Q.