An attempt to mount a sequel to 2001 medieval action-comedy classic “A Knight’s Tale” was scuttled by poor results when Netflix analyzed the concept using its audience data, says a film director involved. Algorithmic data of viewing patterns prompted Netflix to drop the idea. Algorithms are mathematical problem-solving calculations that detect patterns in data. “My … [Read more...] about Algorithm Film Data Sinks Sequel
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Netflix Affirms Film Ambitions
It was thought original streaming films are on the chopping block amid cuts in spending across video streaming. Industry leader Netflix, however, reiterated a full-throated commitment to made-for-streaming films, both big and small, in its quarterly earnings call Thursday. “There is no appetite to make fewer films, but there is an unlimited appetite to make better films … [Read more...] about Netflix Affirms Film Ambitions
‘Civil War’ Cleverly Disguises Its Politics
A24-distributed “Civil War” is a surprise cinema hit over the weekend, defying odds since such topical-political movies are typically boxoffice poison. The R-rated violent drama from distributor A24 posted a hefty $25.7 million over the April 12-14 weekend, exceeding tracking-research expectations. The dystopian action film set in the near future presents the United States … [Read more...] about ‘Civil War’ Cleverly Disguises Its Politics
Imax Shines as Regular Cinema Struggles
The big-format-screen Imax theaters are rebounding nicely from the pandemic and disruptions from Hollywood labor strikes, though the rest of cinema suffers from fewer movies. That snapshot of the cinema business is optimistic. The Imax boom shows audiences are willing to pay a premium for tickets for a premium experience. Consumers want out-of-home entertainment, and not … [Read more...] about Imax Shines as Regular Cinema Struggles
Film Marketing Takes to Streets
The “Star Wars” franchise has mounted a marketing initiative that projects lighted images on a famous New York City building, attracting the attention of street traffic and, more importantly, the press. “Star Wars” imagery gets beamed on the side of the 102-floor Empire State Building at night. This supports licensed movie merchandise and runs of “Star Wars” saga movies on … [Read more...] about Film Marketing Takes to Streets
Tribeca Offers Perks Program
The glitzy Tribeca Festival rolls out a membership program offering events perks, special merchandise offers and benefits from sponsors. Membership costs $100 a year, reflecting that flat-fee subscriptions offerings in media continue to multiply. It’s a type of loyalty program from the fest’s parent, Tribeca Enterprise. “Tribeca Membership offers year-round access to … [Read more...] about Tribeca Offers Perks Program
Streamers’ Billboards a Sign of the Times
Video streamers have elbowed alongside movies for visibility in greater Hollywood’s outdoor billboard scene for awards consideration, joining films seeking to turn heads of industry voter for Oscars and other accolades. This season, video streaming services Hulu, Paramount+ and Netflix are particularly visible. Dotting the fabled Sunset Strip canyon are film awards … [Read more...] about Streamers’ Billboards a Sign of the Times
Film Marketer Banks on Crowd Funding
Emerging independent film company Legion M will test its crowd-funding capability to support the cinema release of a theatrical documentary on “Star Trek” icon William Shatner. The Shatner biography, “You Can Call Me Bill,” is a PG-13 rated documentary set for March 22 theatrical release. It’s Legion M’s first time going in-house for a cinema release. The documentary … [Read more...] about Film Marketer Banks on Crowd Funding
‘Dune 2’ Blasts Off With Global PR Tour
Big-budget “Dune: Part Two” basks in the glow of copious good press after distributor Warner Bros. Pictures mounted an extensive six-country, whistle-stop publicity tour of talent. The “Dune 2” publicity parade made stops earlier this month at New York City, Mexico City, Paris, London, South Korea and Abu Dhabi. That press tour covered the world because each stop became a … [Read more...] about ‘Dune 2’ Blasts Off With Global PR Tour
Film Blurbs Engulf Pricey Super Bowl
Movies from three of Hollywood’s five major studios played during Sunday’s Super Bowl, with advertisers reportedly paying $7 million for each 30-second spot. Nine movie, film branding and streaming platform spots were televised in-game, at the high end of the four-to-eight range typical for Hollywood fare in the NFL finale. Another handful of film-related commercials ran in the … [Read more...] about Film Blurbs Engulf Pricey Super Bowl