Morad Koufane’s Post

What does KILLERS OF THE FLOWER MOON's theatrical play mean for Apple and other streamer studios going forward? It's a big topic with a lot of unknowns, but one certain trend: more and more companies like Apple and Amazon have abandoned their streaming exclusive plans with high profile films in favor of exclusive theatrical windows as the pandemic and its peak streaming era fall further behind in the rear view mirror. It's always an honor to collaborate with the great Alexandra Canal as she tackles the story in her latest for Yahoo Finance. "This certainly signals a transition period for [Apple] in terms of how they're going to approach content, especially with big prestigious productions and A-plus list talent like Leonardo DiCaprio and Marin Scorsese," Shawn Robbins, chief analyst at Box Office Pro, told Yahoo Finance. The film, which was distributed by Paramount (PARA), notched $44 million in its global debut this past weekend — a lukewarm opening considering its estimated $200 million-plus price tag but still a notable feat given its long run time, coupled with the ongoing actors' strike. The movie will eventually air on Apple TV+ once its theatrical run is complete, although the company has yet to reveal when that will be. "Studios have certainly remembered how valuable that theatrical window is — and that includes new players like Apple," Robbins said. The Boxoffice Company Boxoffice Pro Netflix Paramount Pictures Sony Pictures Entertainment Universal Pictures #killersoftheflowermoon #dicaprio #scorsese #apple #amazon #netflix #paramount #universal #sony #boxoffice #movies #cinema #theaters #film #entertainment #trendingonlinkedin

The significance of a robust independent sector cannot be overstated. Without it, the avenues leading to major blockbusters diminish considerably. The absence of an independent sector means fewer new voices and perspectives in the industry, reducing the opportunities for risk-taking, innovation, and challenging the status quo. Furthermore, the development of the supply chain and the ecosystem at large is hindered, as these rely on a symphony of diverse elements working in harmony. The health of the independent sector is crucial for us all, impacting every facet of the industry. #creativeindustries

#Apple and #AmazonMGM are leading the way in film strategy by investing in high-quality films and distributing them to theaters worldwide. #Netflix should follow suit, as streamers benefit from theatrical releases, and audiences still want to see quality films on the big screen. Executives across the industry should reconsider their decision-making and focus on quality and what audiences want to see, not their own personal biases and tastes. Theatrical experiences are still popular, and people want to see films that aren't just superhero blockbusters. This is good for business and investors, as well as for the art of filmmaking. #filmstrategy #streaming #theatricalreleases #entertainmentindustry #filmdistribution Yahoo Finance https://lnkd.in/d7PixhYT

In today's TV, Film, & Media Industry News Roundup for Thursday, 7 March 2024, the UK Government introduced a 40% indie movie tax relief to bolster local production. BBC Studios secured a substantial debt facility to amplify its investment in programming. Executive movements, including Imagine Entertainment's appointment of Jeb Brody and Ravi Ahuja's role at Sony Pictures, signal a reshuffling of creative leadership. Initiatives like Foxtel's Video Futures Collective and IAG's partnership with Covenant House emphasise collaboration and philanthropy. The closure of Rooster Teeth underlines the dynamic interplay between innovation and tradition. Amidst these changes, new projects, adaptations, and the ever-evolving strategies of streaming giants like Apple and Netflix offer a glimpse into the future of storytelling and distribution.

In a past paradigm shift I was Creative Director at the agency that pioneered DVD Production at scale for the film industry and brought in the first film studio to adopt the technology, Warner Bros. At the time we were combating DVD name calling as inferior tech by some big name filmmakers like Spielberg and Lucas, who swore they would never let their films be put on to DVDs. We approached the problem of overcoming that perception from a different angle and offered a way for the studio's to monetize their dormant film content, which was being stored and falling apart in the studio vaults, as a bright, shiny new product to put on the shelves. Seeing Netflix exit the DVD rental business is the end of an era. It could seem like the final stage for this medium. But perhaps it's really a new opportunity to deliver a high-end limited edition branded product experience. The novelty of owning an iconic piece of content to experience again and again is not going away any time soon. #designthinking #brand #innovation #monetization #businessstrategy

COVID-19 has brought about significant changes in the film industry, some of which may be here to stay. According to Looper, the pandemic has accelerated the industry's shift towards streaming services, with studios releasing new films online and bypassing theaters altogether. This change has impacted how audiences consume content and how movies are monetized, affecting everything from box office receipts to actor salaries. To comply with health regulations, the industry has also seen innovations in production techniques, such as virtual production technologies, which have allowed for safer, more controlled environments. The financial strain has also led to a reevaluation of budgets, with a noticeable shift towards smaller, less risky projects. As the film world navigates these changes, the traditional cinema model is being reimagined, suggesting a future where flexibility and digital integration are key. The pandemic has heightened the call for greater flexibility in work arrangements, reshaping labor relations in the industry. What do you think about the future of cinema and the film industry? Please share your thoughts in the comments below. #FilmIndustry #CinemaEvolution #StreamingRevolution #PINCommunityAdvocate

The Film Industry Isn’t Dying—We’re in a Renaissance Just like the French New Wave, which was born from rebel filmmakers who were shut out of studios operations, we are witnessing a similar shift in the industry today. Many claim the film industry is dying, pointing to the financial struggles of streaming platforms and the decline of traditional cinema revenue. However, many see it differently. This transformation is reminiscent of the Hollywood Renaissance, eras that redefined cinema by shifting power to independent filmmakers. A recent article on the economics of streaming highlights the challenges facing major studios and platforms (https://lnkd.in/gPQDk8aQ). But rather than signaling the industry's demise, these challenges are paving the way for a new era of innovation and creativity. Independent filmmakers, who create genuine stories instead of rinse-and-repeat formulas, are now more connected to their audiences than ever before. With unprecedented access to affordable technology and distribution channels, they can tell unique stories that resonate on a global scale. This democratization of film production is fostering a vibrant ecosystem where diverse voices and fresh perspectives can thrive. The industry isn't dying; it's evolving. We're witnessing a shift that empowers creatives outside the traditional studio system, echoing the revolutionary spirit of past cinematic movements. The future of film lies in the hands of the storytellers. #FilmIndustry #IndependentFilm #CinemaRevolution #StreamingEconomics #CreativeInnovation

Such collaborations between studios and streaming platforms will ensure the swath remains healthy for the corals to thrive. #theatredistribution #mediabuy by studios. #Publicity #marketing by streaming should be a business model to keep the box office trajectory moving upward. #contentwindowing is the(e) recipe to redeem deep investments interred in these productions. https://lnkd.in/gXFhBdh9.

It comes as no surprise that Netflix is scaling back investment in original film and re-evaluating this verticals economics on their service. Moves like this support the thesis that films are best monetized with wide theatrical releases before windowing. While theatrical audiences have been on the decline in recent years, the business is very cyclical and I believe audience's appetite for this type of content is entering a new season. Coming off the heels of multiple production stoppages and a glut of content, stories being told on the big screen present a strong value proposition not seen in years. With the introduction of AMC's A-List and similar programs, the cost to consume theatrical content is lower than ever when compared to the rising costs associated with streaming content at home.