Hoyts-PolyGram Video (Australia)

Background : Hoyts PolyGram Video was a sell-through joint venture between Hoyts Distribution (also owner of RCA/Columbia Pictures-Hoyts Video) and PolyGram Video to market titles in Australia between 1988 and 1991.

(1988–1991)
Nickname : "The Red Pyramid"

Logo : On a white background, several red outlined squares swing in a spiral pattern, with each one decreasing in size. The bottom one then sticks to the middle and begins to spin around, with the camera tilting upwards to reveal the pieces are forming a striped pyramid. As the pyramid is fully formed, it stops spinning, stopping at a position where it shows both a flat and striped side. "HOYTS POLYGRAM", a red line, and "V I D E O" all slide in from the left one after another. After a few seconds, "PRESENTS" appears below.

FX/SFX : The formation of the pyramid. Pretty cool for an '80s logo!

Music/Sounds: A pop-rock tune with a cowbell, which is actually an APM music piece "The Winning Plan". Composed by Graham Preskett. It sounds very similar to the theme song of Punky Brewster.

Availability : Extremely rare. It can be seen on Footroot Flats: The Dog's Tale, Bloodsport, later Australian VHS releases of My Stepfather is an Alien and Superman IV: The Quest for Peace. Check Ebay.com.au! Was also seen on the NRL highlights tape Road to Glory - 1958-67. Strangely, it appears on the 1995 US Video Treasures VHS of Raw Deal, as this appears after the 1987-1998 Video Treasures logo and the warnings, even though it's sourced from an Australian master.

Editor's Note : None.