The controversial “day-and-date” film-release strategy, in which movies hit the big screen and video simultaneously, to the chagrin of theater owners, is getting its next test case.

Comcast Corp. and IFC Entertainment are set to announce a deal Tuesday that will ensure simultaneous distribution for independent films in select theaters and via video-on-demand.

The indie drama “American Gun” will be the first title to get day-and-date treatment, on March 24, in the 9 million homes that comprise Comcast’s digital footprint and in IFC’s own IFC Center theater in New York.

Press release: Comcast and IFC to Offer On-Demand Day and Date Premieres of Independent Theatrical Films