With the Sundance debut of Linas Phillip's film Bass Ackwards only days away, a new program at YouTube will allow you to watch his film now. From the press release:

As further commitment to expanding audiences for independent films, Sundance Institute today announced a collaboration with YouTube to make available for rent three world-premiere films from the 2010 Sundance Film Festival.   Beginning today, films will be spotlighted on the YouTube homepage, after which they will also be available until January 31 at YouTube Movies.   Two audience favorites from the 2009 Festival will also be made available for rental. John Cooper, Director of the Sundance Film Festival said, "It has been our goal this year to find opportunities for our filmmakers by linking them to our technology partners and YouTube has been a great sponsor and partner. The You Tube commitment to independent film is aligned with ours at Sundance. This begins a new age of connecting our artists directly to audiences."

It's an interesting development for YouTube to begin monetizing their services and to do so with hiqh quality indie films. Congrats to Linas and team for being one of the featured artists! Rent Bass Ackwards by going here.   (Tip of the hat to The SunBreak)