Israeli satellite broadcaster Yes has launched a new channel dedicated to locally produced feature films.

Israeli filmmakers have long been aware that while their films are often shunned theatrically, they score high ratings when they are broadcast.

They will also benefit from one more, much needed, source of income, though pretty modest for the time being. The Israeli Movie Channel is offering an average of $10,000 per title for a period of 2 years, allowing them 10 to 30 runs, depending on the title.

Since the reservoir of local features produced in the last 50 years is limited to about 450 pictures, the channel will also feature documentaries and TV dramas.

In addition, according to United King Films, which holds now the largest library of local films (160 titles), the channel has pledged annual participation in 5-10 feature film projects.