Universal Pictures

Posted on April 8, 2013 by Kayla Bressi

by Kayla Bressi

Universal Pictures

http://www.nbcuni.com
http://www.universalpictures.com

A Brief History:

Universal Studios Inc, or Universal Pictures, is one of 6 major movie studios. It is owned by Comcast and is a division of NBC Universal. Some of their most notable films include E.T: The Extra Terrestrial, Jurassic Park, Meet the Fockers, How the Grinch Stole Christmas, and Jaws. [1]

In addition to theatrical film, Universal Pictures has also produced direct to DVD and classic films, as well as the broadway hits Wicked and Billy Elliot: The Musical. [3]

Key Executives

Brian Roberts is the chairman and CEO for Comcast Corporations. His company is the majority owner of NBC Universal. [2]

Eddie Cunningham, president of Universal Pictures International Entertainment, joined the company in 1994. He currently overseas distribution in international countries and looks for opportunities for international business opportunities. [2]

Jimmy Horowitz

Jimmy Horowitz is the president of Universal Pictures. He has worked for the studio for 18 years, and has helped oversea and lead Universal Stage Productions to success.[2]

Cindy Gardner is the Senior Vice President of Internal Communications and NBC Universal & Corporate Affairs. Cindy overseas corporate media relations, philanthropy, and organizes special events. [2]

Recent Releases

Jurassic Park 3D
Release Date- April 5th, 2013
http://www.jurassicpark.com

While the original debut in 1993 saw blockbuster results, there are mixed reviews on whether or not a 3D version of Jurassic Park was necessary.

Since the 3D release was set around the time of the movie’s 20th anniversary, some have said it seems like a celebration. Alicia Loots from Hollywood.com says, “a 3D re-release feels like an interesting way to pay homage to a film that was way ahead of its time technologically.” [4] However, some seem to disagree, calling it a “gimmick.”

Many fans asked a popular youtube channel, “Screen Junkies” to make a spoof regarding the conversion of this classic blockbuster into 3D.

Originally opening with $47 million in 1993, Jurassic Park made $7 million on Friday and is expected to make $18 million over the weekend. These results put it behind Evil Dead, which made close to $11.5 million. According to CinemaBlend.com, “The huge blockbuster opening this weekend was made 20 years ago, and the horror film is a remake of a classic from the 80s, but the box office is humming as if both of them were brand new.” [5] With a production budget of only $10 million, Jurassic Park 3D should prove to be profittable for Universal Pictures. [6]

Identity Thief
Release Date- February 8th, 2013
http://www.identitythiefmovie.com

Identity Thief, featuring Jason Bateman and Melissa McCarthy, was the #1 film during its opening weekend, racking in $34.5 million. [7]

As of April 7th, Identity Thief had an estimated domestic total of $131,254,000 and a worldwide total of $157,054,000. It is also currently rotten, with only a 20% approval rating on RottenTomatos.com. It is set to release on DVD and Blu-Ray on June 4th, 2013.

Les Miserables
Release Date: Dec 25, 2012
http://www.lesmiserablesfilm.com

Les Miserables all-star cast helped put this movie in the top of Universal Picture’s most recent accomplishments in film. With famous actors and actresses, including Hugh Jackman, Russell Crowe, Anne Hathaway, Sacha Baron Cohen, Amanda Seyfried, and Helena Bonham Carter, Les Miserables started out strong. On opening day, Les Miserables made $18.1 million, putting it in first place for a musical on opening day. [8]

In an interesting move, the actors of Les Miserables sang live during filming, instead of along to a pre-recorded rendition. Some support this, however according to Sandy Schaeffer on Screenrant.com, theatre die-hards tend to prefer “dedicated singers, rather than performers who are actors first and singers second.” [9]

Les Miserables was nominated for 8 Oscars, and won 3 of them: Actress in a Supporting Role, Makeup and Hairstyling, and for Sound Mixing. [10] It has a domestic total of $148,809,770, and a worldwide total of $435,809,770, meaning this film had more foreign success. [11] It also currently has a fresh rating of 70% on RottenTomatoes.

Despicable Me 2
Release Date: July 3rd, 2013
http://despicableme.com

Fan Art of Despicable Me

Following the success of Despicable Me, which gathered a worldwide total of $543,113,985, ( Putting it at #6 on Universal Picture’s top grossing films), Universal Pictures decided to create a sequel that is set to release this summer.

On the official movie website for Despicable Me 2, you can find a collection of pictures, items, and gifs from loyal fans and other websites, such as Tumblr.

To promote the film, Universal Pictures has launched a large “Despicablimp.” TheDespicablimp will cross over the United States 3 times, set to make its first appearance at the Nickelodeon’s Kid’s Choice Awards in March. [12]
Fans are able to visit the “Despicablimp Command Center.” They can share sightings on twitter, instagram, and flickr using the hashtag #despicablimp. Fans can also enter a sweepstakes for a trip to the premiere, and a ride in the Despicablimp. There is an interactive map that allows fans to see fan sightings as well as future tour stops. [13]

Important Future Releases:

Jurassic Park 4

Universal Pictures recently named Colin Trevorrow to direct the future Jurassic Park 4. Trevorrow has previously directed “Safety Not Guaranteed” and two other films. [14]

In Other News:

Backed by Universal Pictures, Prima Cinema is offering a box that will allow viewers to watch theatrical releases at home. For a price, ($35,000), you can get a box in your home that allows the newly-released films to play on your television. There is also an additional cost of $500 per movie. So far, Universal Pictures is the only film studio to offer its titles, including Les Miserables, Jurassic Park 3D, and Identity Thief. The worry that this might affect theatre sales is lessened by Prima’s hefty price tag. Prima also insures that the home viewing of these theatrical releases will not be viewed by more than 25 people in a single home theatre. [15]

[1] Top Universal Films- http://www.boxofficemojo.com/studio/chart/?studio=universal.htm

[2] NBC Universal Corporate Site- http://www.nbcuni.com/corporate/

[3] NBC Universal Pictures History- http://www.nbcuni.com/film/universal-pictures/

[4] Jurassic Park Poster Reavealed- http://www.hollywood.com/news/movies/43830315/jurassic-park-3d-the-bigger-the-dinosaur-the-better-poster?page=all

[5] Katey Rich on Friday’s Box Office- http://www.cinemablend.com/new/Both-Evil-Dead-Jurassic-Park-3D-Bring-Big-Friday-Box-Office-36808.html

[6] Jurassic Park 3D Financial Figures- http://www.boxofficemojo.com/movies/?id=jurassicpark3d.htm

[7] Identity Thief Opening Weekend- http://www.bloomberg.com/news/2013-02-11/-identity-thief-is-weekend-s-no-1-film-34-5-million.html

[8] Opening Day for Les Mis-http://boxofficemojo.com/news/?id=3593&p=.htm

[9] Live Music Performances in Les Mis- http://screenrant.com/les-miserables-music-songs-featurette/

[10] Oscar Nominees – http://oscar.go.com/nominees

[11] Les Mis Box Office Info- http://boxofficemojo.com/movies/?id=lesmiserables2012.htm

[12] The Despicablimp- http://www.prnewswire.com/news-releases/universal-pictures-and-illumination-entertainments-despicable-me-2-despicablimp-takes-flight-on-march-23-199574591.html

[13] Despicablimp Website- http://www.despicablimp.com

[14] Jurassic Park 4 Director- http://www.salon.com/2013/03/15/universal_pictures_names_jurassic_park_4_director/

[15] Prima Cinema- http://www.bizjournals.com/losangeles/news/2013/04/05/universal-films-available-in-home.html

Comcast/NBCUniversal

Posted on April 8, 2013 by Zachary Eisen

by Zach Eisen

NBCUniversal Media, LLC

30 Rockefeller Plaza

New York, NY 10112

212.664.4444

www.nbcuni.com

About the Company [1]:

A snapshot of what NBCU owns

NBCUniversal is a major media company owned by the Comcast Corporation. With headquarters in world-famous Rockefeller Center, NBCU owns and operates a variety of media outlets across many different platforms, including broadcast and cable television, film, and digital media. NBCU’s content is distributed around the world.

Television

NBCUniversal has a variety of holdings in both broadcast and cable television. It owns the NBC broadcast network and the Telemundo network, airing popular programs such as NBC Nightly News, Today, Saturday Night Live, and The Office. NBC also owns and operates TV stations in some of the largest markets in the country, including New York, Los Angeles, and Chicago. NBCU’s cable holdings include the NBC Sports Network, MSNBC, CNBC, USA, E!, Bravo, and The Weather Channel. NBC also owns the broadcast rights to the Olympics, NHL and NFL games, and many other major sporting events.

Film

NBCU owns Universal Pictures, one of the Big Six major film companies. Universal is famous for movies such as E.T.: The Extra-Terrestrial, Jurassic Park, Jaws, and the Bourne series [2]. The company also owns Focus Features, which is Universal’s art, foreign, and independent film division. NBCU also owns Universal Parks and Resorts, with full ownership of the parks in Los Angeles and Orlando and part ownership of locations in Japan and Singapore.

Online

NBCUniversal owns multiple digital and online companies, including NBC.com, Fandango, and iVillage. It also is part of a joint-venture in Hulu, the online streaming service.

Key Executives [3]:

Stephen B. Burke – CEO, NBCUniversal

Stephen B. Burke

Stuart J. Epstein – Executive VP and CFO, NBCUniversal

Stuart J. Epstein

Robert Greenblatt – Chairman, NBC Entertainment

Robert Greenblatt

Brian Roberts – Chairman and CEO, Comcast Corporation

Brian Roberts

For more information on NBCUniversal’s executives, click here.

Competitors:

In the broadcast television market, NBC’s main competitors are the other Big Four major networks, which are ABC, CBS, and FOX. However, cable viewership is quickly growing, which means NBC also competes with basically every television station for viewers and advertising dollars.

Ownership History [4]:

NBCUniversal was officially founded in 2004, when NBC and Universal merged into one company. At the time of the merger, Vivendi and GE shared ownership of the company. In 2009, GE and Comcast announced plans to create a joint venture out of NBCUniversal’s companies and Comcast’s cable holdings. The plan was finalized in early 2011, with Comcast taking a majority stake in the company. In early 2013, Comcast announced it would buy GE’s 49% minority stake, a $16.7 billion deal which allowed them to assume 100% ownership of NBCUniversal [5].

Financial Information [6]:

2012 was a successful year for NBCUniversal across the board. The company earned $23.8 billion in total revenue, an increase of nearly $2.7 billion, or 12.7%, from 2011. NBCU’s revenue in all four of its divisions (Broadcast Networks, Cable Networks, Film, and Theme Parks) saw increases in 2012.

The largest gains were made in the Broadcast Television division, which jumped 27.4% from the previous year. The broadcast numbers were aided by the network’s airing of the 2012 London Olympics and Super Bowl XLVI. Excluding these events from the numbers, the Broadcast division’s revenue still saw a 4.8% increase, driven by political advertisements on its Owned & Operated stations. The increased revenue from the political ads also helps explain the Broadcast division’s 7.9% increase in the fourth quarter of 2012 from the same period in 2011.

NBCU’s Cable Networks division accounted for the company’s smallest increases in 2012 (3.3%), but generated the most revenue for the company ($8.8 billion). The NHL lockout hurt ratings for the NBC Sports Network during that time, which boasts NHL coverage as its key selling point. However, ratings for that network reached all-time highs once hockey returned [15]. Advertising revenue decreased by 1.5% in the fourth quarter for NBC’s cable networks.

News:

• GOODBYE, GE

On March 19, Comcast completed its purchase of GE’s 49% stake in NBCUniversal [7]. The $16.7 billion deal also included the sale of GE’s headquarters at the famous 30 Rockefeller Plaza building to Comcast. The deal brings to an end GE’s involvement with NBC, which began in 1919 when the company helped found the Radio Corporation of America, which started the National Broadcasting Company in 1926 [8]. Since then, NBC has been owned by GE, RCA, Westinghouse, Vivendi and now Comcast. Watch Wall Street Journal Live’s analysis of the deal below (video courtesy of YouTube).

• ADIÓS, NBC

For the first time ever, NBC fell out of the top four networks during a sweeps period conducted by Nielsen [9]. Univision, the Spanish language network, moved ahead of NBC as the fourth most watched network among adults ages 18-49 during the month of February. NBC struggled during that month, as its new show Do No Harm was cancelled after just two episodes, and the new comedy 1600 Penn struggled as well [10].

• THE TONIGHT SHOW WITH…

Jimmy Fallon (right) will take over for Jay Leno (left) as host of “The Tonight Show”.

…Jimmy Fallon? NBC announced in April that the Late Night host will replace Jay Leno on The Tonight Show starting in 2014 [11]. Leno, who has hosted The Tonight Show for 22 years, took over for Johnny Carson in 1992. Leno was replaced by Conan O’Brien in 2009 [12], but returned only seven months later [13] after a feud with the network over a time for his new show. It is being rumored that Saturday Night Live head writer and “Weekend Update” host Seth Meyers will replace Fallon as host of Late Night.

• USA! USA!

NBCU’s USA Network earned the best primetime ratings for a cable network in the first quarter of 2013, its eighth year in a row earning that honor [14]. Popular programs such as Suits and WWE Raw helped the network win the quarter, defeating rivals with popular programs such as AMC and its hit The Walking Dead. USA averaged over 3 million viewers during the primetime slots. Another NBCU network, Bravo, also improved, making the top ten networks among viewers ages 25-54.

• NHL COVERAGE SCORES FOR NBC SPORTS NETWORK

The NBC Sports Network is posting record numbers this year for its NHL coverage [15]. The network, formerly Comcast’s Versus, is averaging 448,000 viewers per game, up from its previous high of 348,000 viewers. The numbers may have gotten a boost because of the lockout that cut the season down to 48 games. National games airing on NBC’s broadcast network are also doing better, averaging 1.7 million viewers,just ahead of its previous tally of 1.6 million.

• ‘THE VOICE’ NEARS IN ON ‘IDOL’

The popular singing competition show, The Voice, has returned to NBC’s lineup, and has outperformed FOX’s American Idol so far [16]. Although Idol‘s first two episodes earned stronger ratings than The Voice‘s, NBC’s program is gaining momentum, while FOX’s is seeing its lowest ratings in the 12-year history of the show. The show’s performance in the ratings for the remainder of the season may tell whether it will replace Idol as America’s favorite singing show.

• USING THE SECOND SCREEN

In March, USA allowed fans of its series Psych to choose the ending of the show’s 100th episode [17]. The vote was part of a new online and mobile feature called USA Sync, an attempt by the network to use new media to add interactivity to its programming [18]. The program allows fans to post about the shows, connect with each other, and play interactive games. On the mobile platform, the service is available as an app that gives users access to more content through other applications.

• A DELICIOUS PREMIERE

The much anticipated new series Hannibal premiered on NBC on April 4. The series, about fictional evil genius Hannibal Lecter, serves as a prequel to the 1991 classic film The Silence of the Lambs. The show earned praise from Internet critics, with some calling it “riveting” [19], and others saying it was “beautifully shot and…surprisingly thoughtful” [20]. Watch a promo for Hannibal below (video courtesy of YouTube).

• FOR E!, OLDE IS NEW

Jeff Olde

In March, E! named former VH1 executive Jeff Olde head of its programming [21]. Olde will be in charge of the development of E!’s shows, including Keeping Up With The Kardashians, The Soup, and Chelsea Lately. Olde will begin his new job this summer.

Sources:

[1]: http://www.nbcuni.com/corporate/about-us/

[2]: http://www.boxofficemojo.com/studio/chart/?studio=universal.htm

[3]: http://www.nbcuni.com/corporate/management/

[4]:http://www.nbcuni.com/corporate/about-us/history/

[5]: http://mediadecoder.blogs.nytimes.com/2013/02/12/comcast-buying-g-e-s-stake-in-nbcuniversal-for-16-7-billion/

[6]: http://www.marketwatch.com/story/comcast-reports-4th-quarter-and-year-end-2012-results-2013-02-12

[7]: http://www.deadline.com/2013/03/comcast-completes-acquisition-nbcuniversal/

[8]: http://www.gereports.com/its-a-wrap/

[9]: http://tvbythenumbers.zap2it.com/2013/02/27/univision-sets-milestone-as-no-4-network-in-february-sweeps-ahead-of-nbc-in-key-demos/171192/

[10]: http://www.deadline.com/2013/02/nbc-sweeps-ratings-lastloses-to-univision/

[11]: http://www.thedailybeast.com/articles/2013/04/02/source-jimmy-fallon-to-take-reins-of-tonight-show-from-jay-leno.html

[12]: http://www.nytimes.com/2009/05/30/arts/television/30leno.html?em&_r=0

[13]: http://www.accesshollywood.com/jay-leno-heading-back-to-late-night-conan-obrien-weighing-options_article_27490

[14]: http://variety.com/2013/tv/news/usa-suits-ratings-amc-walking-dead-1200332772/

[15]: http://www.sportsbusinessdaily.com/Daily/Issues/2013/03/19/Media/NHL-Ratings.aspx

[16]: http://mediadecoder.blogs.nytimes.com/2013/03/29/in-ratings-race-the-voice-gains-on-idol/

[17]: http://www.nbcbayarea.com/entertainment/entertainment-news/NATL-Viewers-to-Choose-Psych-Ending–200075821.html

[18]: http://www.thefutoncritic.com/news/2013/04/01/usa-network-launches-the-next-phase-of-usa-sync-first-live-second-screen-content-syndication-platform-625513/20130401usa01/

[19]: http://www.hitfix.com/whats-alan-watching/review-nbcs-hannibal-a-riveting-silence-of-the-lambs-prequel

[20]: http://www.hollywoodreporter.com/review/hannibal-tv-review-433109

[21]: http://www.hollywoodreporter.com/news/jeff-olde-named-es-head-431347

Clear Channel Communications

Posted on April 8, 2013 by Sarah Arlotto

by Sarah Arlotto

Clear Channel Communications’ logo- courtesy of clearchannel.com

Company Information

http://www.clearchannel.com

Address: 200 East Basse Road, San Antonio, Texas, 78209

Telephone: (210) 822-2828

A Brief History and Overview

Clear Channel Communications, Inc. was founded in 1972 with the purchase of its first FM radio station in San Antonio, Texas. After expanding throughout Texas, and then globally, Clear Channel has become one of the world’s largest media and entertainment companies. Besides Clear Channel’s Media & Entertainment sector, it also has an outdoor advertising division called Clear Channel Outdoor. Clear Channel Outdoor has over one million displays in over 30 countries. Clear Channel aims to be America’s only radio company that offers local presence with national reach and to develop innovative and dynamic campaigns for advertisers.[1]

Clear Channel Media and Entertainment

With 850 radio stations broadcast to over 150 markets, Clear Channel reaches over 243 million listeners every month and has a greater reach than any other radio or television outlet in the United States. They deliver a variety of content including music, news, talk, sports, and comedy, on a number of platforms such as AM/FM stations, in-vehicle satellite radio, HD radio, and online radio. Clear Channel also offers a digital music service called iHeartRadio. It is free and can be accessed through online internet streaming and through a mobile app. iHeartRadio gives listeners access to over 1,500 live radio stations and the opportunity to create customized stations based on their artist and song and genre preferences. Clear Channel also offers live music events such as their annual iHeartRadio Music Festival.[1]

What Is iHeartRadio? [13]

Key Executives

Bob Pittman [2]

Bob Pittman is Clear Channel Communications’ Chief Executive Officer.[2]

Tom Casey [2]

Tom Casey is Chief Financial Officer and Executive Vice President of Clear Channel Communications.[2]

Wendy Goldberg [2]

Wendy Goldberg serves as Chief Communications Officer and Senior Vice President for Clear Channel Communications. She oversees and executes strategic communications for all of the Clear Channel Brands.[2]

Robert H. Walls, Jr. [2]

Robert H. Walls, Jr. is General Counsel and Executive Vice President of Clear Channel Communications. He oversees the legal and government affairs departments within the company.[2]

John Hogan [2]

John Hogan is the Chairman and Chief Executive Officer of Clear Channel’s Media and Entertainment Division. He oversees the development and organization of Clear Channel’s radio stations.[2]

John Skyes [2]

John Skyes is the President of Entertainment Enterprises for Clear Channel. He helps to develop new business for Clear Channel Communications. He is also on the board of many organizations including Syracuse University’s Newhouse School of Public Communications.[2]

Financials

Clear Channel Communications is a privately traded company. Shares of their parent company, CC Media Holdings, Inc. are traded under the ticker symbol CCMO. Clear Channel Outdoor Holdings, Inc. is traded separately under the ticket symbol CCO.[3]

CCMO’s revenues have been increasing slowly since December 31, 2009. The recorded revenues for December 31, 2012 were $6,246.9 million. Operating expenses have also been on a steady increase. Since December 31, 2009 CCMO has also been experiencing a net loss of income every year. The net income recorded for December 31, 2012 was $424.5 million. This loss of income can be explained by rising operating expenses and only a very small increase in revenues.[4]

In the News

January: On January 7^thClear Channel Media and Entertainment updated their iHeartRadio app. They added a “Perfect For” feature that will allow users to choose a playlist based on their current mood or activity. They have also added an alarm clock and a sleep timer feature to the application, making it so iHeartRadio can be the first thing that listeners hear when they wake up in the morning and the last thing they hear before they fall asleep at night.[5]

Clear Channel’s iHeartRadio app “Perfect For” feature [15]

Clear Channel also announced that iHeartRadio will be made compatible in Chrysler Group and General Motors Company vehicles. The new made-for-driving application will be called “iHeartAuto” and will make it easier and safer for users to listen to their favorite radio stations and artists straight from their car.[6]

February: On February 11^th Clear Channel Media and Entertainment released their findings from recent research study that concluded that by reallocating a small amount of money to radio advertising can help companies increase their brand’s reach. These findings are explained by the notion that radio reaches an audience that is more receptive and open to marketing ideas and suggestions.[7] On February 13^th Clear Channel announced that they have a new partnership with Robbins Entertainment, a music label. As part of the deal, Clear Channel will be sharing all of its radio revenues as well as its digital broadcast revenues with the artists under the Robbins Entertainment label. Clear Channel has closed similar deals over the past few months with other record labels.[8]

March: On March 11^th Clear Channel unveiled an “Add-Ins” feature to their iHeartRadio app. This feature will allow listeners to insert local news, weather, and traffic to their custom stations. This innovation will allow Clear Channel to grow as a national radio provider while still localizing and personalizing their services.[9] On March 15^th Clear Channel announced their partnership with Target to promote Justin Timberlake’s new album: “The 20/20 Experience.” Together, Target and Clear Channel will host an iHeartRadio album release party on March 18^th. 120 lucky winners will be flown to Los Angeles for the event.[10]

“The 20/20 Experience” album release party [16]

On March 28^th Clear Channel announced that their annual iHeartRadio Music Festival will be held at the MGM Grand in Vegas for its third year. Part of the festival includes the Macy’s iHeartRadio “Rising Star Campaign” where 25 new artists compete for a spot in the festival alongside big names in the industry. Clear Channel also puts on a “Road to Vegas” campaign to promote the event, where hundreds of listeners will be awards trips to the concert. The event will take place September 21 and 22, 2013.[11]

Voting page for Macy’s Rising Star Campaign [13]

April: On April 1^st Clear Channel Media and Entertainment announced a partnership with Big Machine Label Group. Together the two companies will release The Band Perry’s second album, called PIONEER. The idea of the campaign is to increase audience awareness through an on-air Artist Integration Program to introduce the new album to listeners. The campaign will also include on-air interviews with the artists and a live performance.[12]

The Band Perry [17]

References

[1] http://www.clearchannel.com/Corporate/Pages/about.aspx

[2] http://www.clearchannel.com/Corporate/Pages/our-team.aspx

[3] http://www.clearchannel.com/Investors/Pages/faq.aspx

[4] http://investing.businessweek.com/research/stocks/financials/financials.asp?ticker=CCMO

[5] http://www.clearchannel.com/Pages/IHeartRadio-Unveils-New-“Perfect-For”-Feature—Now-Users-Can-Listen-To-Stations-Based-On-Their-Moods-And-Activities.aspx

[6] http://www.clearchannel.com/Pages/iHeartRadio-Expands-Its-Reach-Across-The-Automotive-Industry-With-Integrations-in-Chrysler-Group-and-General-Motors-Vehicle.aspx

[7] http://www.clearchannel.com/Pages/Research-Shows-That-Mix-Of-Radio-And-Tv-Gives-Advertisers-Bigger-Bang-For-Their-Buck.aspx

[8] http://thenextweb.com/media/2013/02/13/clear-channel-will-share-digital-radio-revenues-with-robbins-entertainments-music-artists/

[9] http://finance.yahoo.com/news/iheartradio-introduces-local-news-traffic-130000770.html

[10] http://www.webwire.com/ViewPressRel.asp?aId=171678

[11] http://www.billboard.com/biz/articles/news/branding/1554919/clear-channels-iheartradio-music-festival-announces-return-to

[12] http://www.clearchannel.com/Pages/Clear-Channel-Media-and-Entertainment-and-Big-Machine-Label-Group-to-Launch-Artist-Integration-Program-Around-The-Band-Perr.aspx

[13] http://macys.iheart.com/macys/

[14] http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=ZhQSr2SugXA

[15] http://www.allaccess.com/net-news/archive/story/113908/iheartradio-unveils-perfect-for-feature-based-on-l

[16] https://www.facebook.com/iheartradio

[17] http://www.countrymusicislove.com/category/the-band-perry

Cox Media Group/Cox Enterprises

Posted on April 7, 2013 by Autumn Boatner

Autumn Boatner

http://www.coxmediagroup.com/

Headquarters Contact Info: 6205 Peachtree Dunwoody Rd.
Atlanta, GA 30328
(678) 645-0000

Overview [1]

Cox Media Group is an integrated broadcasting, publication, direct marketing, and digital media company which is a part of Cox Enterprises that includes Cox Target Media. Cox Target Media operates two leading American companies which are Valpak (direct marketing), and savings.com (online savings). The company’s operations currently include 19 broadcast TV stations, one local cable station, 87 radio stations, eight daily newspapers and more than 100 digital services. CMG’s reach includes more than 30 media markets and 52 million Americans weekly, which includes 18 million radio listeners, 32 million TV viewers, and more than four million print and online newspaper readers.

2012 Key Metrics [2]

Revenue: 1.9 Billion
TV Stations: 19
Local Cable Channels: 1
Television Markets: 11
TV Viewer Reach: 30+ million
AM Radio Stations: 15
FM Radio Stations: 72
Radio Markets: 20
Combined Weekly Radio Listeners: 18 million

The Business of Communications

A duopoly is a specific type of oligopoly where only two producers exist in one market. In context, Cox Media Group is a duopoly due to the fact that it is one of two firms with dominant control over the communications market. Cox Media Group is in the process of changing its structure as part of a new business strategy to sell off their stations in smaller markets. The broadcast realignment was announced in July 2012 by CMG President Doug Franklin following the purchase of duopolies in larger markets — Jacksonville, Fla., and Tulsa, Okla. — from Newport Television . [3] CMG’s strategy is focused on larger markets, cross-media collaboration, and heightened reach in fewer markets. “This simplified structure will enable CMG to capitalize on continued growth and synergies, while retaining its size financially,” said Franklin.

Simultaneously, CMG is realigning leadership structure to fit the new broadcast portfolio. Leadership changes in 2013 are as followed:

January 11th – Romeo Solomon Named General Sales Manager at KICU-TV
January 14th – Cox Media Group Appoints Matt Dalton as National Sales Manager of Long Island’s 106.1 WBLI-FM and 102.3 WBAB-FM
January 30th – CMG Orlando Tammie McGrath promoted to Director of Sales for six stations [4]
February 7th – CMG Tulsa Radio Promotes Matt Ledbetter to Director of Sales for Its Five Station Cluster [5]
March 1st – Tom Calococci Joins CMG Miami as New Program Director East Coast
March 8th – Cox Media Group Atlanta Names Adam Wolfson New General Sales Manager
March 11th – Greg Bilte named general manager, Suzanne Nadell named News Director for CMG Tulsa
March 13th – CMG Jacksonville Named Eric Lauer GSM, CMG San Antonio Names Jeff Garrison as New Program Director of Y100 [6]
April 1st – Lee Rothenthal named News Director at KUTV in Indianapolis [7]

Consolidation

On February 12th, Cox Media Group announced the sale of radio stations in six markets to SummitMedia – a Birmingham, Ala.-based ownership group which includes David DuBose, Cox Media’s Birmingham Vice President and market manager.

Source: http://www.freepress.net/

Cox Media Group also sold three Southern Connecticut radio stations and contract rights for an additional station to Connoisseur Media based in Conn. Four stations were sold to Connoisseur and 21 stations were sold to Summit. In southern Connecticut, Cox sold WPLR-FM, WEZN-FM, WFOX-FM, and contract rights for WYBC-FM to Connoisseur Media for $40 million. SummitMedia paid $66.25 million for a number of stations in Birmingham, AL, Greenville, SC, Louisville, KY, Richmond, VA, and Hawaii, according to documents filed with the FCC. [8] As part of the broadcast realignment, Cox recently added four TV stations to its broadcast portfolio: WAWS-TV (fox) and WTEV-TV (CBS) in Jacksonville, Fl, and KOKI-TV (fox) and KMYT-TV (MyNetwork) in Tulsa, OK. [9]

Source: www.sbgi.net/

Sinclair Broadcast Group had the opposite strategy, and acquired four COX small television stations for $99 million on February 25^th, 2013; the purchase was part of a string of over thirty acquisitions over the past year and a half. [10] They also purchased 18 stations from Barrington Broadcasting Group for 370 million. [11] Sinclair Broadcast Group Inc. is a Hunt Valley, Maryland-based diversified television broadcast company. The four stations Sinclair purchased from Cox were:

KFOX (Fox) El Paso, Texas DMA 91

WJAC (NBC) Johnstown-Altoona, Pa. DMA 102

KRXI (Fox) Reno, Nev. DMA 108

WTOV (NBC) Wheeling, W.Va.-Steubenville, Ohio DMA 158

FCC rules prohibit ownership of two stations in markets as small as Reno, Nev., therefore Sinclair plans on getting past this loophole by operating MNT affiliate KAME Reno under contract with a third-party licensee, Deerfield Media. [12] Sinclair said it expects to finance the deal through a bank loan, the deal will close in the second quarter and is pending FCC approval. Sinclair is arguably taking this strategy because there are less medium-sized stations for sale, but small stations provide large profits through local advertisements. [13] “Over the past 18 months, we have led the industry’s consolidation efforts in the mid-sized markets, purchasing 30 TV stations and creating over $400 million of equity value,” said David Smith, Sinclair President and CEO.

On March 4th, 2013, Broadcast stock analyst Marci Ryvicker and Wells Fargo Securities approved the Sinclair buy. “We like SBGI’s scale, leverage and opportunistic approach to M&A and anticipate there is more to come,” stated in an investor’s note. According to the note, Sinclair is paying a reasonable 4.6 times cash flow for Cox and 5.2 times for Barrington while maintaining a healthy debt profile of 5.1 times projected for the end of 2013. [14]

Other news concerning COX

Source: RadioInk.com

On January 18th, Cox Media Group made radio history with Tampa 97X by giving local listeners total control of the music by utilizing social media. Listeners chose songs they wanted to hear by selecting from over 1,800 songs listed on 97X app and website. The app gave listeners the ability to interact with an ‘Open Mic’ feature which enabled them to record and upload themselves introducing songs. [15]

On March 6th, Cox Media Group was accepted into the Google AdWords (TM) Premier SMB partner program. This partnership allows CMG to be a leading provider in digital marketing solutions for local and regional advertising clients. Premiere SMB partners meet Google’s highest criteria for qualification, transparency and customer service, which include completing extensive Google product and account management training to provide businesses with the most effective AdWords advertising solutions. In addition to in-depth AdWords knowledge, PSP partners provide campaign management, detailed reporting, one-on-one customer support, and broad marketing guidance to help advertisers make the most of their advertising campaigns. [16]

Sources

1 & 2. http://www.coxmediagroup.com/about/
3. http://articles.baltimoresun.com/2013-02-26/business/bs-bz-sinclair-acquires-cox-stations-20130226_1_sinclair-plans-station-owner-stations-in-mid-sized-market
4. http://www.coxmediagroup.com/news/2013/jan/
5. http://www.coxmediagroup.com/news/2013/feb/
6. http://www.coxmediagroup.com/news/2013/apr/
7. http://www.coxmediagroup.com/news/2013/may/
8 & 9. http://www.mediapost.com/publications/article/193537/cox-sells-25-radio-stations.html#axzz2PoUSjKxl
10. http://articles.baltimoresun.com/2013-02-26/business/bs-bz-sinclair-acquires-cox-stations-20130226_1_sinclair-plans-station-owner-stations-in-mid-sized-markets
11. http://www.bizjournals.com/baltimore/print-edition/2013/03/08/sinclair-broadcast-group-tuning-into.html?page=all
12.http://www.tvnewscheck.com/article/65729/sinclair-buys-four-cox-tvs-for-nearly-100m
13. http://www.bizjournals.com/baltimore/print-edition/2013/03/08/sinclair-broadcast-group-tuning-into.html?page=all
14. http://www.tvnewscheck.com/article/65893/ryvicker-gives-thumbs-up-to-sinclair-buys
15. http://www.coxmediagroup.com/news/cmg-press-releases/tampa-bays-97x-does-it-again/nTzz2/
16. http://www.marketwatch.com/story/cox-media-group-selected-as-google-adwords-premier-smb-partner-2013-03-06

CBS Films

Posted on April 7, 2013 by Nicholas Ferreiro

by Nicholas Ferreiro

CBS Films logo [1] CBS Films, is a film studio company that handles many areas of development, including film production, distribution, financing and marketing. It is owned by CBS Corp. and was founded by Les Moonves in 2007. Since its creation, CBS Films has released ten films, including “The Woman in Black,” “The Back-Up Plan,” and “The Mechanic” [2][3][4].

Executives

Terry Press, Co-President

Terry Press, Co-President of CBS Films [5]

Terry Press was named Co-President of CBS Films in April 2012. As Co-President, she oversees creative aspects of the company including initial development, marketing, production and distribution. Before joining the company, Press worked at 7570 Marketing Inc. where she worked as a marketing consultant on many CBS Films [5]. She also had success working as a consultant on both “The Social Network” and “The Hunger Games” [6].

Wolfgang Hammer, Co-President

Wolfgang Hammer, Co-President of CBS Films [7]

Wolfgang Hammer was also named Co-President of CBS Films in April 2012, in conjunction with Terry Press. As Co-President, Hammer uses his “savy” negotiating skills in acquisitions and also oversees the company’s business, finance and legal affairs [6]. Before working at CBS Films, Hammer was Executive Vice President at Lionsgate [7].

Finance

CBS Corp. reported record numbers for the fourth quarter of 2012. Since the fourth quarter of 2011, revenue rose 2% ($3.7 billion), operating income rose 12% ($726 million) and adjusted EPS rose 14% ($0.64). Les Moonves, CEO of CBS Corp., has even higher expectations for next year [8].

Both of CBS Films’ most recent films, “Seven Psychopaths” (October 2012) and “The Last Exorcism Part II” (March 2013), earned back their respective production budgets. “The Last Exorcism Part II” actually brought in over three times its original production budget ($15 million made versus $5 million budget) [9].

New Releases

The Last Exorcism Part II

CBS Films released its horror-film, “The Last Exorcism Part II,” on March 1st, 2013. It took in over $7.7 million on its first weekend (2,700 theaters) and grossed over $15 million in its remaining five weeks [10]. Despite earning back its production budget, the film was poorly received, having just a 13% critic rating and 35% audience rating on Rotten Tomatoes [11].

Trailer for “The Last Exorcism Part II”

Awards

“Salmon Fishing in the Yemen” was nominated for three Golden Globes, including best musical or comedy, best actor in a musical or comedy and best actress in a musical or comedy [12]. However, the film lost in all three categories [13].

On January 9th, 2013, it was announced that Colin Farrell was nominated in the Irish Film & Television Academy Awards for his role in CBS FIlms’ “Seven Psychopaths” [14]. He has since lost to Jack Reynor [15].

Upcoming Releases

The Kings of Summer

Nick Robinson, Gabriel Basso and Moises Arias in “The Kings of Summer”[16]

On January 22nd, 2013, CBS Films acquired the domestic rights to the coming-of-age comedy “Toy’s House.” The movie premiered at Sundance, where it received great reviews, prompting CBS Films’ move to make a deal. It has since been retitled as “The Kings of Summer,” and is slated for a May 31st release date. The film is directed by Jordan Vogt-Robert, written by Chris Galleta, and stars Nick Robinson, Gabriel Bosso, Moises Arias and Nick Offerman. “The Kings of Summer” focuses on a group of friends who attempt to move into the woods and live off the land, and is being compared to “Stand By Me,” “Superbad,” and “The Goonies” [16][17].

Trailer for “The Kings of Summer”

Last Vegas

Morgan Freeman, Kevin Kline, Robert DeNiro and Michel Douglas in “Last Vegas” [18]

On February 6th, 2013, CBS Films set a new release date for their new buddy-comedy, “Last Vegas.” The film was originally slated for December 20th, an attempt to play into the Christmas movie market, but has since changed to November 1st. It is directed by Jon Turteltaub, written by Dan Fogelman, and produced by Laurence Mark and former CEO and president of CBS Films, Amy Baer [18]. The film was produced by CBS Films and had been in talks since before September, 2011 [19].”Last Vegas” stars Morgan Freeman, Robert DeNiro, Kevin Kline and Michael Douglas, and focuses on a group of old friends who throw a bachelor part in Las Vegas [18]. There is no trailer available for this film yet.

The To Do List

Scene from “The To Do List” [20]

“The To Do List,” starring Aubrey Plaza, is set to be released on August 16th, 2013. It had previously been set for February 2013 [20].

Trailer for “The To Do List”

Gambit

Promotional poster for “Gambit” [21]

“Gambit,” a Coen Brothers comedy starring Colin Firth, will be released sometime in late 2013 [22]. The film has already been released in Ireland [23].

Trailer for “Gambit”

7500

Theatrical poster for “7500” [24]

The horror-thriller “7500” is set to be released sometime in 2013. It was originally slated for release in August 2012 [25].

Trailer for “7500”

Acquisitions

Inside Llewyn Davis

Oscar Isaac in “Inside Llewyn Davis” [26]

On February 19th, it was announced that CBS Films had acquired the domestic rights to distribute the new Coen Brothers film, “Inside Llewyn Davis” for around $4 million. Studio Canal financed the movie itself and is holding onto some foreign distribution rights. The film centers around the Greenwich Village music scene in the 1960s and stars Oscar Isaac, Carey Mulligan, John Goodman and Justin Timberlake, among others. There has been no release date set for CBS Films’ newest acquisition [26].

Trailer for “Inside Llewyn Davis”

Production

On January 24th, CBS Films announced it will be developing “Olivia Twisted,” a debut screenplay from stuntman Brian Roberts. “Twisted” is a fictional adaptation on the classic novel, “Oliver Twist,” and revolves Olivia, a member of a metropolitan teenage gang at war with a rival gang. Michael De Luca and Alyssa Phillips are set to produce the film [27].

Sources

[1] http://aroundthenetworks.com/wp-content/uploads/2012/01/CBS-Films-Logo-wide3.jpg

[2] http://www.cbsfilms.com/about_us/

[3] http://latimesblogs.latimes.com/entertainmentnewsbuzz/2012/04/wolfgang-hammer-and-terry-press-named-heads-of-cbs-films.html

[4] http://articles.latimes.com/2010/jan/11/business/la-fi-ct-cbsfilms11-2010jan11

[5] http://www.cbsfilms.com/principals/terry_press

[6] http://latimesblogs.latimes.com/entertainmentnewsbuzz/2012/04/wolfgang-hammer-and-terry-press-named-heads-of-cbs-films.html

[7] http://www.cbsfilms.com/principals/wolfgang_hammer

[8] http://investors.cbscorporation.com/phoenix.zhtml?c=99462&p=irol-newsArticle&ID=1785372&highlight=

[9] http://www.boxofficemojo.com/studio/chart/?view2=allmovies&view=company&studio=cbsfilms.htm

[10] http://www.boxofficemojo.com/movies/?id=lastexorcism2.htm

[11] http://www.rottentomatoes.com/m/the_last_exorcism_part_ii_2013/

[12] http://www.cbsfilms.com/news/cbs_films_salmon_fishing_in_the_yemen_scores_three_golden_globe_nominations

[13] http://www.goldenglobes.org/2012/12/nominations-2013/

[14] http://www.cbsfilms.com/news/seven_psychopaths_scores_multiple_irish_film_and_tv_academy_award_nominatio

[15] http://ifta.ie/winners/index.html

[16] http://www-deadline-com.vimg.net/wp-content/uploads/2013/01/greym__130123024752.jpg

[17] http://www.deadline.com/tag/toy-house/

[18] http://www.deadline.com/2012/11/first-photo-last-vegas-robert-de-niro-michael-douglas-cbs-films/

[19] http://www.deadline.com/2011/09/jon-turteltaub-in-talks-to-direct-last-vegas/

[20] http://collider.com/popeye-hotel-transylvania-2-release-date/211652/

[21] http://www.heyuguys.co.uk/images/2012/10/Gambit-UK-Poster.jpg

[22] http://blogs.indiewire.com/theplaylist/cbs-films-move-seven-psychopaths-up-to-october-12th-delay-gambit-to-winter-2013-20120803

[23] http://www.imdb.com/title/tt0404978/

[24] http://welcomefrnds.com/wp-content/uploads/2012/12/7500-movie.jpg

[25] http://www.deadline.com/2012/05/cbs-films-shifts-dates-for-gambit-7500/

[26] http://www.deadline.com/2013/02/inside-llewyn-davis-cbs-films-acquisition-coen-brothers/

[27] http://www.hollywoodreporter.com/heat-vision/olivia-twisted-picked-up-by-415147

AMC Networks

Posted on April 7, 2013 by Elan Schoonmaker

by Elan Schoonmaker

11 Penn Plaza
New York, NY 10001
Main Phone #: (212) 324-8500

Profile

AMC Networks is a company with a focus on delivering top quality entertainment to households all around the United States. Through its variety of cable channels IFC, Sundance Channel, WE tv, IFC Films and AMC, AMC Networks is able to reach out to audiences of all shapes and forms. These channels air anything from wedding shows (WE tv), to zombie thrillers (AMC). This network knows what its audience likes to watch. Reaching 95 million households, its no wonder why AMC Networks is home to multiple award winning television shows. AMC Networks is the only network to have won the Emmy for Outstanding Drama series for four consecutive years. [1] Adding to its list of awards, the network also roped in a three straight Golden Globe Awards for Best Television Series Drama.

AMC Network Channel Thumbnails

AMC: is devoted to airing past theatrical releases and original series television shows. AMC is most commonly known for its big three shows; Breaking Bad, Mad Men and The Walking Dead.

Sundance Channel: known for airing independent films, world cinema, documentaries, short films and original programming.

WE tv: is a tv channel targeted at women specifically. This channel is home to famous shows like; Bridezillas, My Fair Wedding and The Golden Girls.

IFC: is a channel that airs movies and tv shows with a certain indie aspect to them. Well known tv shows from this channel are; Maron, Out There, and Portlandia

Brief History

Once known as Rainbow Media Holding, AMC Networks got its start 32 years ago. It only became known as a private business in 2005. AMC Networks has always been somewhat successful, but never as much as it has been now.

Anti Dish Network

AMC Network made an enemy back in 2008 when it decided to sue Dish Network over a channel carriage dispute. Skipping ahead four years, in 2012 Dish decided to change its home channel without any notice. Shortly after AMC was removed entirely from Dish. Dish claimed that it didn’t want to carry AMC anymore due to the channels that came packaged with it, like WE tv and The Sundance Channel. After many years and court sessions, the only thing AMC has to show is its 2.4 billion dollars in damage [2]

Key Figures

Josh Sapan

Josh Sapan, also known as President of AMC Networks has been crucial in the networks rise to stardom [3]. Before Sapan came into play, AMC was just a cable channel that played classic movies all day. Once he came along, he helped turn AMC into a channel that would produce leading entertainment originals such as The Walking Dead. He also helped the network reach out to a wider ranged audience. With the introduction of cable channels like WE tv and Sundance Channel, Sapan helped the network gain the viewership of more women.

Ed Carroll

Ed Carrol began his role of Chief Operating Officer back in 2009. It is no mere coincidence that AMC Networks has seen its greatest increase of viewership since then. He oversaw shows like The Walking Dead, Breaking Bad, and Mad Men [4]. Near the top of his list of accomplishments is his work with The Sundance Channel. After a lot of time and hard work, he was able to expand the reach of the Sundance Channel to both Europe and Asia.

Financials

In the Fourth Quarterly report in 2012, the net Income for AMC Networks was up by 13.9%. Nationally, the network had a 15.9% increase from last year, but internationally net income dropped 8.8% [5]

Operating income for AMC Networks increased 11.1% since 2011. Just like the net income, this was due to national numbers. Nationally there was a 16.8% increase in operating income [5]. The network suffered though with an international loss of $27 million dollars.

AMC Networks Stock

In the long term stock wise, AMC Networks has been seen a sharp increase in value. Exactly one year ago from this date (April 5, 2012), the stock price was $43.53 per stock. Today they are $63.24 a share, which is a 31% increase [10]. If AMC Networks continue at this rate, there will be no limit to its success.

The national business model for the network is the reason why it is profitable today. The international model however keeps losing money. Things need to change internationally if the network plans on continuing its growth.

Recent Activity

February 26, 2013: Sundance Channel will be experiencing a lot of changes over the next few months. This channel as a whole doesn’t reach out to enough viewers. As of now, AMC is the jewel of AMC Networks. That is why starting March 4, all four seasons of Breaking Bad were scheduled to air on Sundance Channel [6]. Also starting April 22 Sundance Channel will air the pilot to its new original series Rectify. This show will follow a man who been discharged of a rape conviction after 19 years. Following its debut, Rectify will also be rerun on AMC to promote the show.

March 1, 2013: AMC Networks announces two major changes in a press release. The first announcement was that AMC will renew the contract it has with Rogers Comm. Rogers Comm. is a leading Canadian communications company. This renewal will deliver HD access to all of AMC’s TV shows [7]. It will also allow customers to access AMC original series on multiple platforms. Whether that means viewing AMC on an Xbox or an Iphone, it is entirely up to the customer.

YEAH!

March 12, 2013: AMC Announces YEAH!, a movie service like Netflix in that it provides movies to customers on a streaming platform. Unlike Netflix, YEAH! provides interactive features to pre-existing movies [8]. If someone wants to watch Pulp Fiction they can watch it with never before seen interviews. They can also get fun facts throughout the film, as well as quiz questions every now and then.

April 1, 2013

The AMC channel announces its ratings for the following night, March 31. The Walking Dead alone gained the viewership of 12.4 million people [9]. These ratings mark a new record for AMC. The Walking Dead was the most viewed show on TV that night. This came as no surprise to AMC though. Since late September, The Walking Dead remained on top in the ratings, beating shows like American Idol and even The Big Bang Theory. On top of the record ratings with 5.2 million viewers, AMC’s Talking Dead talk show reached a new record as well.

Works Cited

[1] AMC Network “About Us”

[2] AMC Versus Dish Network

[3] Josh Sapan Information

[4] Ed Carroll Information

[5] Quarterly Report

[6] Sundance Channel New Format

[7] Rogers Communications Renewal

[8] Yeah!

[9] The Walking Dead Audience

[10] AMC Networks Stock

Columbia/TriStar Pictures

Posted on April 7, 2013 by Bailey Garno

Bailey Garno

http://www.sonypictures.com/movies/index.html

CONTACT:

10202 West Washington Boulevard

Culver City, CA 90232

The TriStar Building

United States

Phone: 310-280-7700

Originally formed as Columbia Pictures Corporation by Jack Cohn, Harry Cohn, and Joe Brandt, Columbia TriStar Motion Pictures has evolved into one of the most accredited motion picture libraries worldwide. The group is a division within Sony Pictures Entertainment, and encompasses Columbia Pictures, TriStar Pictures, Sony Pictures Classics, and Screen Gems. [1]

Columbia/TriStar operations are situated in six other countries worldwide: Columbia Pictures Producciones Mexico functions in Mexico City; Columbia Pictures Film Production Asia functions in Hong Kong; Columbia Pictures Producciones Espanolas functions in Madrid; and additional divisions are in the United Kingdom, Brazil and Japan. [2]

SENIOR MANAGEMENT TEAM: [3]

Michael Lynton – CEO, Sony Entertainment, Inc.; Chairman and CEO of Sony Pictures Entertainment

Amy Pascal – Co Chairman, Sony Pictures Entertainment; Chairman, Sony Pictures Motion Picture Entertainment Group

The Columbia TriStar Motion Pictures Group is a highly valued operation within Sony Corporation of America (SCA). Distributing around 22 films a year in the United States alone, Columbia TriStar includes a production studio, film labels, and global motion picture production operations. The film company is consistently producing the most popular pictures at the box office.

RECENT RELEASES:

The Call (2013): “The Call” stars Halle Berry as a 911 operator destined to meet the killer of her past. Directed by Brad Anderson, this story will have you on the edge of your seat.

Release Date: March 15, 2013

Production Budget: $13 million

Opening Weekend: $17,118,745 [4]

Zero Dark Thirty (2012): Director Kathryn Bigelow’s historical drama/thriller chronicles the hunt for al-Qaeda terrorist leader Osama Bin Laden in this Oscar-winning film starring Jessica Chastain and Jason Clarke.

Production Budget: $40 million

Release Date: December 19, 2012

Opening Weekend: $417,150 (limited); $24,428,936 (wide)19, 2012 (limited); January 11, 2013 (wide) [5]

Skyfall (2012): Daniel Craig stars once again as 007, otherwise known as James Bond, in this action flick directed by Sam Mendes.

Release Date: November 9, 2012

Production Budget: $200 million

Opening Weekend: $88,364,714 [6]

Evil Dead (2013): Frede Alvarez has, according to critics, directed the scariest movie of all time. A remake of the original 1981 film, “The Evil Dead,” this horror film stars Jane Levy.

Release Date: April 5, 2013

Production Budget: $17 million

Opening Weekend: $26,000,000 [7]

The films mentioned above are Sony/Columbia’s highest grossing films in 2013; however, “The Call” and “Evil Dead” are the only films released by the studio this year to date (April 7). There were seven films (three additional films not seen above) that have grossed from Sony/Columbia this year. A breakdown of the studios’ first quarter grossing this year will reveal that the January-March quarter was at its lowest since 2000, with a -60.2% drop in grossing compared to last years numbers. [8]

For a better look at the studio’s statistics, follow the link here.

Future Releases:

After Earth: Set 1,000 years into the future after the demise of planet Earth, this sci-fi action film starring Jaden Smith and his father Will Smith will take audiences on a journey. After crashing onto the destroyed and unrecognizable planet, the characters must fight to stay alive and recover their rescue beacon. This film was directed by M. Night Shyamalan and has not yet been rated. Scheduled release date: June 7, 2013. Click here for a peek at this exhilarating story of survival. [9]

This is the End: A hilarious depiction of real celebrities reacting to the apocalypse. While attending James Franco’s house party, a group of unlikely celebrities come together–and are torn apart–in the wake of the end of the world. Directed by Evan Goldberg and Seth Rogen, “This is the End” presents an impressive and hilarious cast for audiences. Schedule release date: June 14, 2013. Click here to find the trailer. [10]

White House Down: Starring Channing Tatum and Jamie Foxx, this action/drama will remind audiences of the recent release, “Olympus Has Fallen.” While touring the White House, Tatum must save his daughter and the President as the capital falls to armed invaders. Director Roland Emmerich and screenwriter James Vanderbilt will have audiences on the edge of their seat. Scheduled release date: June 28, 2013. Click here to see a preview of the trailer. [11] Additional future releases for the year include Grown Ups 2, The Smurfs 2, Elysium, The Moral Instruments: City of Bones, One Direction: This is Us, Battle of the Year, Cloudy With a Chance of Meatballs 2, Captain Phillips, Carrie (2013), David O. Russell Untitled, and Monuments Men.

Recent News:

On March 28th this year, Sony Pictures announced on Twitter (@SonyPictures) that the company has launched a new beta site for easy viewing on your desktop, mobile device or tablet. Perusing this new launch, users will visibly see an update compared to the older site, which is still currently functioning. Content is same across both sites; however, the recent revamp was done for accessibility in response to the rapidly growing use of smart phones and other portable devices. Following the trend of this transition, this has certainly been a wise business move for the entertainment company. [12]

Sony Picture’s co-chairman, Amy Pascal, was honored in late March at the L.A. Gay and Lesbian gala event. Pascal received the organization’s Icon Award as an avid advocate for gay and lesbians in Hollywood. Pascal’s speech focused on continuing to include lesbians and gays in Hollywood, but not in the stereotypical roles that the past may have assigned them too. After commenting on how influential Sidney Poitier and Will Smith’s roles as black man have become, Pascal says, “Wouldn’t it be great if we didn’t have to wait another 40 years for a character to save the world who just happens to be gay?” [13]

Sony Pictures Entertainment had a successful 2013 awards season! At the 2013 Oscars, SPE took home 7 awards including: Best Supporting Actor (Christopher Waltz in Django Unchained); Best Foreign Film (Armour); Best Original Screenplay (Quentin Tarantino for Django Unchained); Best Original Song (“Skyfall” in Skyfall); Best Documentary (Searching for Sugarman); and Best Sound Editing (a tie!–between Hallberg & Landers for Skyfall, and Ottoson for Zero Dark Thirty). Congratulations to all winners and nominees! [14]

Sony Pictures studio blog released an article on February 26th this year announcing Screen Gems and Rainforest Films were honored with the Cinema Vangaurd Award at the 2013 African American Film Critics Association Special Achievements Awards ceremonies. Screen Gems received recognition for its continued support of positive portrayals of African Americans around the world [15]

Works Cited:

[1] “Sony Pictures Timeline.” Sony Pictures Entertainment Museum. N.p., 2006. Web. 04 Apr. 2013. http://www.sonypicturesmuseum.com/studio/timeline

[2] “Divisions | Sony Pictures.” Divisions | Sony Pictures. Sony Pictures Digital Productions Inc., 2013. Web. 04 Apr. 2013.

[3] “Senior Management Team.” Sony Pictures. Sony Pictures Digital Productions Inc., 2013. Web. 04 Apr. 2013.

[4] “The Call (2013) – Box Office Mojo.” Box Office Mojo. IMDB, n.d. Web. 04 Apr. 2013.

[5] “Zero Dark Thirty (2012) – Box Office Mojo.” Box Office Mojo. IMDB, n.d. Web. 04 Apr. 2013.

[6] “Skyfall (2012) – Box Office Mojo.” Box Office Mojo. IMDB, n.d. Web. 04 Apr. 2013.

[7] “Evil Dead (2013) – Box Office Mojo.” Box Office Mojo. IMDB, n.d. Web. 04 Apr. 2013.

[8] “Box Office by Studio | Sony/Columbia.” Box Office Mojo. IMDB, n.d. Web. 04 Apr. 2013.

[9] “After Earth.” IMDb. IMDb.com, 15 Oct. 2012. Web. 04 Apr. 2013.

[10] “This Is the End.” IMDb. IMDb.com, 22 July 2012. Web. 04 Apr. 2013.

[11] “White House Down.” IMDb. IMDb.com, 11 Nov. 2012. Web. 04 Apr. 2013.

[12] SonyPictures. (2013a, March 28). Visit the new SonyPictures.com and our hottest titles on your desktop, tablet or mobile device! pic.twitter.com/tUfxBa2AHD [Twitter post] Retrieved from https://twitter.com/SonyPictures

[13 ] Brittany. “Amy Pascal Receives Icon Award.” Sony Pictures. Social Central Moderator, 22 Mar. 2013. Web. 04 Apr. 2013.

[14] “Sony Pictures at the Oscars.” Sony Pictures. Social Central Moderator. N.p., 25 Feb. 2013. Web. 04 Apr. 2013.

[15] “Screen Gems and Rainforest Films Honored by African American Film Critics Association.” Sony Pictures. Social Central Moderator. N.p., 26 Feb. 2013. Web. 4 Apr. 2013. http://www.specentral.com/2013/02/screen-gems-and-rainforest-films-honored-by-african-american-film-critics-association.php

CBS Films

Posted on April 7, 2013 by Anjela Latcheva

by Anjela Latcheva

Official Logo of CBS Films

11800 Wilshire Blvd

Los Angeles, California 90025

Telephone: (310) 575-7000

www.cbsfilms.com

About

CBS films is an American studio that handles the development, financing, marketing and production of motion pictures [1]. CBS films is a division of the CBS Corporation. Established in 2007, CBS Films has released nine motion pictures to date. CBS Films also plans to release about four to six movies a year including a variety of genres that will be distributed globally as well as in the United States.

Background

CBS Films originally shortly made an appearance in 1979 under the name CBS Theatrical Films. When CBS Corporation launched the new theatrical films division it was in a joint venture with Columbia Pictures and HBO called Tri-Star Pictures. CBS eventually dropped out of the venture in 1985 and CBS Theatrical Films ended its existence.

However, CBS was bought by Viacom in 2000, which also owned Paramount Pictures at that time. In March 2007, when Viacom and Paramount announced their split, CBS Corporation decided to launch CBS Films. This division was originally created to make content for CBS’s cable movie channel.

CBS Corporation then signed with SONY Pictures for a three year deal where they agreed to distribute internationally. The studio released its first film Extraordinary Measures on January 22, 2012. CBS then released its second film, the romantic comedy The Back Up Plan was released in April 2010. The divisions third release was a movie opening for the Thanksgiving Day weekend, Faster, featuring Dwayne Johnson made $12 million at the box office to start.

After the release of five films and grossing over $30 million, CBS Films’ revenue was lower than expected. CBS decided to freeze their film production for now and decided to plan on acquiring films at film festivals such as the Sundance festival. Management also changed in April 2012 which is predicted to provide interesting changes for CBS FIlms.

The pay-cable rights to the new CBS Films’ titles are held by CBS’s premium cable network SHOWTIME. SONY Pictures also has international theatrical rights as well as home entertainment distribution rights for the many CBS Films titles [1].

CBS Films: The Principles

Photo courtesy of CBS Films

Wolfgang Hammer

Co-President of CBS Films. He manages business, finance, legal affairs, and acquisitions for CBS Films [1]. Before working at CBS FIlms, Hammer was Executive Vice President of the Motion Picture Group at Lionsgate. He studied at the University of Vienna Law school and earned his master’s at Stanford University.

Photo courtesy of CBS Films

Terry Press

Co-President of CBS Films. She oversees creative, distribution, marketing and physical production for CBS Films [1].

Photo courtesy of CBS Films

Steven Friedlander

Executive Vice President, Theatrical Distribution for CBS Films. He manages the domestic theatrical acquisitions and distribution [1].

Photo courtesy of CBS Films

Ried Sullivan

Chief Financial Officer for CBS Films.

Photo courtesy of CBS Films

Rik Toulon

Executive Vice President and General Counsel of CBS Films. He manages all legal activities for the company and performs certain business functions in connection with the company’s distribution, finance, acquisition, key vendor and strategic alliance arrangements [1].

Photo courtesy of CBS Films

Maria Faillace

The Executive Vice President of Production for CBS Films. She manages production for the divisions home grown titles [1].

SOCIAL MEDIA

Like Their Page!- Facebook

Tweet CBS Films – Twitter

Check out Latest News –Tumblr

Past Releases

Courtesy of CBS FIlms

Extraordinary Measures – Co-produced with Double Feature Films. Gross: $15,134,168

Courtesy of CBS FIlms

The Back-Up Plan -Co-produced with Escape Artists. Gross: $77,477,008

Courtesy of CBS FIlms

Official Website: Faster – Co-produced with Tri-Star Pictures. Gross: $35,542,923

Courtesy of CBS FIlms

Official Website: The Mechanic – Co-produced with Millennium Films. Gross: $51,070,807

Courtesy of CBS FIlms

Beastly -Gross: $28,834,009

Courtesy of CBS FIlms

Official Website: The Woman in Black – Co-produced with Alliance Films. Gross: $127,730,736

Courtesy of CBS FIlms

Official Website: Salmon Fishing in the Yemen – Co-produced with Lionsgate. Gross: $34,564,651. Nominated for three golden globe awards including best picture [5]! Acquiring this film was a huge step for CBS Films, starring Emily Blunt alongside Oscar Nominee Kristen Scott Thomas this film was popular amongst many.

Courtesy of CBS FIlms

Official Website: The Words – Co-produced with Animus Films. Gross: $13,231,461

Courtesy of CBS FIlms

Official Website: Seven Psychopaths – Co-produced with Blueprint Pictures. Gross: $23,492,318. Voted best Ensemble Cast by The Boston Society of FIlm Critics [5] !

Courtesy of CBS FIlms

Official Website: The Last Exorcism: Part II

Future Releases

The Kings of Summer

The official selection of the 2013 Sundance Film Festival. This coming of age comedy, previously known as Toy’s House, will be in theaters May 31st 2013. Directed by Jordan Vogt-Robert and written by Chris Galletta, this film follows three friends as they decide to spend their summer building a house in the woods and living off the land [4]. Watch the trailer here!

7500

From the director of The Grudge, this Sci-Fi thriller is about a group of passengers that encounter what appears to be a supernatural force while on a transpacific flight. Directed by Takashi Shimizu, Flight 7500 was originally scheduled to be released in August 2012 but has been delayed until sometime in 2013. 7500’s cast includes Ryan Kwanten, Jerry Ferrara, and Amy Smart [4]. Watch the trailer here!

The-To-Do-List

Directed and written by Maggie Carey, this comedic film is about a girl’s list of things to accomplish before hitting college campus in the fall. The film follows her experience and exploits the pressure to become more sexually experienced during high school. The To-Do list cast includes Rachel Bilson, Christopher Mintz-Plasse from Superbad, and Connie Britton from ABC’s Nashville [4]. Watch the trailer here!

Last Vegas

Another comedy schedules to be released in December 2013, this film is about three friends in their mid thirties who decide to take a break from their day-to-day lives and throw a bachelor party in Las Vegas for their last remaining single bud. An amazing famous cast including Robert De Niro, Michael Douglas, Morgan Freeman, and Jerry Ferrara [4].

courtesy of entertainment weekly

Inside Llewyn Davis

CBS Films announced that it has acquired the US rights to Inside Llewyn Davis which is written and directed by academy award winners Joel and Ethan Coen. The film follows an aspiring singer-songwriter as he navigates in the 1960’s folk-music scene in New York City. Cast includes Justin Timberlake, Carey Mulligan and John Goodman. Sneak Peak of the trailer below!

Inside Llewyn Davis trailer

What’s Next for CBS Films?

Being that CBS Films is a relatively young and upcoming division, it has been doing extraordinary well at the box office. I predict we will be seeing more of CBS Films since CBS Films recently announced that they had acquired the rights to the movie Inside Llewyn Davis, this just might be an enormous breakthrough for CBS Films. The movie’s directors have made it to the festival in previous years and have actually had some success. There is word from a previous screening during February that now created tremendous hype for Inside Llewyn Davis which has already been suspected as a possible candidate for the Cannes Films Festival competition. The Cannes Film Festival is still the most prestigious and definitely the most important event in our cinematic calendar, which kicks off May 15th 2013 [3].

Contact [6]

Grey Munford

Vice President of Communication, CBS Films

(310) 575-7435

E-mail: Grey.Munford@cbs.com

SOURCES

[1] www.cbsfilms.com – Official website of CBS Films

[2] www.cbscorporation.com – Official website of CBS Corporation

[3] http://insidemovies.ew.com – Entertainment Weekly, Inside Movies, Announcement about new CBS film acquisition

[4] www.imdb.com – Movie and film information

[5]http://www.cbsfilms.com/news/seven_psychopaths_voted_best_ensemble_cast_by_the_boston_society_of_film_cr – Recent News on CBS Films

[6] http://www.cbspressexpress.com/cbs-films/ – Lastest press on CBS Films

SiriusXM Radio

Posted on April 7, 2013 by llehman

Address:

1221 Avenue of The Americas

36^th Floor

New York, New York

10020

Telephone:

212-584-5100

Overview:

Sirius XM Radio is a radio broadcasting company that offers two satellite radio services called XM Satellite Radio and Sirius Satellite Radio. Sirius XM was born after Sirius Satellite Radio and XM Satellite Radio merged in 2007. Sirius has numerous channels that broadcast weather, news, comedy, traffic, talk, sports, music and entertainment. The company has over 23,900,336 subscribers as of December 31, 2012. Liberty Media Corporation owns over 50 percent of the shares of stock in Sirius. As of December 2012 Jim Meyer is the CEO. [2]

History before the merger:

The company was originally incorporated on May 17, 1990 in Delaware. It was called Satellite CD Radio Inc. IT changed its name to CD Radio Inc. on December 7, 1992. The company changed its name again on November 18, 1999 from CD Radio Inc. to Sirius Satellite Radio Inc. In July 2008 a subsidiary of Sirius, Vernon Merger Corporation merged with XM Satellite Radio Holdings Inc. The name Sirius Satellite Radio Inc. was then changed to Sirius XM Radio Inc. on August 5^,2008. In April 2010 XM Satellite Radio Holdings merged with XM Satellite Radio Inc. XM Satellite Radio Inc. merged with Sirius XM Radio Inc. in January 2011. (where it says Sirius radio make it lead to this clip or the company [3]

Key Executives: [5]

James E. Meyer: James E. Meyer, age 58 replaced Mel Karmazin as the CEO of the company in December 2012. Mr. Karmazin had been CEO since 2004. Mr. Meyer’s position was president of sales and operations from May 2004 to December 2012. His previous jobs included being the president of Aegis Ventures Inc. and a special advisor and a senior executive vice president at Thomson S.A. a consumer electronics company. [4]

Scott Greenstein: The president and chief content officer. His previous jobs included being senior vice president at Miramax Films, co president of October Films, chairman of USA Films and chief executive officer of the Greenstein Group.

Dara Altman: The executive vice president and chief administrative officer. Altman was originally an attorney with the law firm Willkie Farr and Gallagher. She later became senior vice president and general council of Reiss media enterprises. From 1997 to 2005 she was the executive vice president of business affairs for Discovery Communications. January 2006 through September 2008 Altman was the executive vice president, business and legal affairs of XM.

Steven Cook: The executive vice president, sales and automotive. Prior to filling this position, Cook was the group vice president and general manager, automotive division from July 2008 through January 2013. He held various positions with XM from February 1999 to July 2006 including executive vice president, automotive, executive vice president, sales and marketing and senior vice president, sales and marketing.

Patrick L. Donnelly: The executive vice president, general counsel and secretary. Donnelly originally began his career as a lawyer for Simpson Thacher & Bartlett. He has been in his current position at Sirius since May 1998.

David J. Frear: The executive vice president and chief financial officer. Early in his career, he worked at Bear, Sterns & Co, Inc. and Credit Suisse. Frear has been at Sirius since June 2003 acting as its executive vice president and chief financial officer.

Enrique Rodriguez: The executive vice president, operations and products. Rodrigues worked for Microsoft Corp., Xbox Partnerships for Microsoft as well as Cisco System Inc. prior to joining Sirius in October 2012.

Financials: [6]

Subscription fees are Sirius’ main source of revenue. The company has over 23,900,336 subscribers. Most customers subscribe to Sirius either yearly, semiannually, quarterly or monthly. The company offers discounts if a customer prepays or has a long-term subscription. Sirius generates revenue from the sale of advertising on non music channels, by selling satellite radios, components and accessories as well as from the sale of additional services related to internet radio, backseat TV, traffic and weather. In 2012 Sirius XM and its subsidiaries had total revenue of $3.4 billion. Its total operating expenses are $2.5 billion. The net income for 2012 was $3.4 billion.

Sirius XM Program Offerings: [2] [6]

Star Power: Sirius is well known for using stars to lure its customers to purchase subscriptions. For example Oprah Winfrey, Howard Stern, Martha Stewart, Bob Dylan and Jimmy Buffet are some of the many stars who are contracted with Sirius.

Music Programs: The company has numerous music channels, which are commercial free. Various genres including classical, country, rock and hip hop are offered. (Link of a music station or music video). Artist Confidential where customers of Sirius can listen to interviews and performances of the biggest names in musical talent is one of many special features offered. Sirius also hosts a Town Hall special feature where listeners can hear live audiences in the area of sports, talk and music.

Sports: Sirius is known for its select sports talk channels such as ESPN Radio, Sirius XM NASCAR Radio, Sirius XM NFL Radio and MLB Network Radio. The company is known for providing its listeners with live play-by-play sports (SU BASKETBALL GAME BROADCASTER) in the professional and college arena.

Talk and Entertainment Programs: Customers can listen to talk radio programs with hosts including doctors from NYU Langone Medical Center, Howard Stern, Oprah Winfrey, Dr. Laura Schlessinger, Opie and Anthony and Senator Bill Bradley. Comedy channels featuring Jamie Foxx’s The Foxhole, Blue Collar Comedy and Raw Dog Comedy are also presented. Entertainment channels including playboy radio, road dog trucking, kids place live and radio Disney attract thousands of listeners. Sirius customers can also enjoy religious programs including family talk and the catholic channel.

News: Sirius offers local traffic reports for 22 cities throughout the United States. Information and news programs from around the world can be heard at HLN, CNN, CNBC, Fox News, BBC World Service News and Bloomberg Radio. A variety of political talk shows are offered including Sirius’ POTUS channel.

Access to Sirius: Satellite radios are mainly distributed when a consumer purchases or leases a new vehicle. Every major automaker provides satellite radio in their vehicles as per contracts between Sirius and the automakers. Automakers pay Sirius in advance for the subscription to Sirius included in the sale or lease of the automakers vehicle. Sirius also sells satellite and Internet radios through its website to consumers.

March Madness: [7]

To lure back 50 million ex subscribers, Sirius XM activated satellite receivers from March 19^th through March 24^th for the first six days of NCAA Men’s Basketball Championship. The company is hoping that the fans who are no longer subscribers will pay to get service through the Final Four which occurs in early April.

Sources:

[1] http://www.siriusxm.com/ – Sirius XM Radio Website

[2] http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Sirius_XM_Radio – Sirius XM Radio Wikipedia

[3] http://www.sec.gov/Archives/edgar/data/908937/000090893713000004/siri-20121231x10k.htm – Sirius XM Radio Security Government

[4] http://www.huffingtonpost.com/huff-wires/20121219/us-sirius-xm-ceo/?utm_hp_ref=sports&ir=sports) (http://www.sec.gov/Archives/edgar/data/908937/000090893713000004/siri-20121231x10k.htm – James E. Meyer Huffington Post

[5] http://www.siriusxm.com/bios -Sirius XM Radio Bios

[6] http://www.sec.gov/Archives/edgar/data/908937/000090893713000004/siri-20121231x10k.htm#sC183289BF5206A53B1AFDC965946148E – Sirius XM Radio Security Government Financials

[7] http://www.fool.com/investing/general/2013/03/16/this-week-in-sirius-xm-radio-22.aspx – Sirius XM Radio Fool.com Investing

[8] http://njbrideau.com/wp-content/uploads/2013/03/2013MarchMadness.jpg – March Madness 2013 picture

DreamWorks Animation

Posted on April 7, 2013 by alwenner

by Alex Wenner

1000 Flower St.
Glendale, CA, 91201, United States
(818) 695-5000
dreamworksanimation.com

Origins:

DreamWorks’ Steven Spielberg, Jeffrey Katzenberg and David Geffen on the cover of Time Magazine, March 27, 1995. Coutesy of malibucomplete.com

Co-founded in 1994 by entertainment veterans Stephen Spielberg, Jeffrey Katzenberg and David Geffen, DreamWorks Animation SKG has released a total of twenty-six animated feature films that have grossed over $10 billion worldwide (as of 2012). In 1995, DreamWorks embarked on a co-production venture with Pacific Data Images. This new unit was created to produce computer-animated motion pictures, beginning with 1998’s Antz. In 2005, Viacom purchased the live-action division of DreamWorks, only to end this partnership in 2008. Reliance Entertainment now acts as its parents company. 20th Century Fox took over international marketing and distribution for SKG in 2012, and the SKG studio now handles its own domestic distribution. In addition to feature films, DreamWorks produces television programming and other family entertainment. [1] [2]

Key Executives:

Spielberg, Courtesy of static-I3.org

Jeffery Katzenberg, Courtesy of hollywoodreporter.com

Jeffrey Katzenberg – CEO and Director: Directed Disney‘s animation unit to successes like The Little Mermaid (1989), Beauty and the Beast (1991), Aladdin (1992), and The Lion King (1994) before co-founding DreamWorks Animation in ’94. Heavily involved in early SKG animation hits.

Lew Coleman – President and CFO: Spent 37 years in the banking industry before joining SKG in 2007.

Stephen Spielberg– Principal Partner: One of Hollywood’s most recognizable names and

Lew Coleman, Courtesy of dreamworksanimation.com

talents, Steven Spielberg co-founded the studio. From 1997 to 2008’s Indiana Jones and the Kingdom of the Crystal Skull , all Spielberg films were released through DreamWorks live-action division. [3] [4]

Financials: [5]

Revenue: $749 million (2012)

Operating Income: -$65 million (2012)

Animation Portfolio:
DreamWorks has enjoyed considerable success, both commercial and critical, with its large library of animated films. SKG’s films boast a $430 million gross average, an astounding number second to only Pixar. Four of DreamWorks films rank amongst the fifty highest-grossing films of all time, and the studio can lay claim to sixteen of the fifty highest-grossing animated features of all time. Though the studio has a history of traditionally-animated films (The Road to El Dorado, Sinbad), SKG has confirmed that all future films will be computer-animated. [6]

Chicken Run (2000)

Courtesy of impawards.com

Co-financed and distributed by DreamWorks for Aardman Animation, the stop-motion animated Chicken Run marked one of the company’s first forays into animated motion pictures. It was a decisive success, grossing nearly $228 million worldwide with a $42 million budget.

Shrek (2001)

DreamWorks found solid gold with the release of Shrek, a box-office smash-hit that

Courtesy of traileraddict.com

catapulted the studio to the forefront of film animation alongside studios like Pixar and Disney. The green ogre grossed $485 million worldwide and earned the Academy’s first award for Best Animated Feature. The computer animation used in Shrek was different from the traditional animation methods used in previous DreamWorks features, and the film’s release marked a subtle change in direction for the studio; now it would focus its efforts almost entirely on computer animation. Its sequel, Shrek 2, would go on to shatter box-office records in 2004 ($920 million worldwide gross).

Madagascar (2005)

Courtesy of impawards.com

Following the computer-animated tradition of Shrek, Madagascar continued the string of massive success for SKG, taking in $530 million worldwide in ’05.

Kung Fu Panda (2008)

impawards.com

Jack Black stars in this computer animated comedy that marked DreamWorks biggest opening for a non-sequel, and the highest grossing animated feature of the year ($632 million worldwide).

Rise of the Guardians (2012)

Expected to launch a new franchise, Guardians (featuring a re-envisioning of classic characters Santa Claus, the Tooth Fairy, etc.) was considered a flop despite being well-received critically and grossing over $300 million worldwide. It also received a Golden Globe nomination for Best Animated Feature Film. [7]

Courtesy of yodale.org

Recent Activity:

February 26, 2013 – DreamWorks Animation reported a quarterly loss of nearly $83 million, mainly due to the disappointing performance of Rise of the Guardians (which still brought in over $300 million to an estimated $145 million budget, excluding marketing costs). CEO Jeffrey Katzenberg attributes Guardians lackluster performance to poor marketing. Another film in production, Me & My Shadow, was sent back into development, accruing more losses for the studio. As a result of the studios reset setbacks, SKG announced a series of layoffs that will see around 350 employees lose their jobs by the end of the year. This resulted in a small drop in SKG stock.[8]

March 13, 2013 – Despite watching its stock price drop in the wake of its 4th quarter earnings report, DreamWorks Animation SKG stock experienced an 8% rise after an analyst predicted the studio’s new release, The Croods, will exceed box office expectations. As of April 7th, The Croods has earned over $330 million worldwide in two and a half weeks. [9] [10]

March 20, 2013 – DreamWorks Animation releases the theatrical trailer for its upcoming summer 2013 animated feature, Turbo. Starring voice talent such as Ryan Reynolds, Snoop Dogg, Paul Giamatti and Luis Guzman, the film chronicles a snail’s dream of becoming a racing legend, and will be distributed by 20th Century Fox. [11]

Upcoming Projects- Even with the recent theatrical release of The Croods and the summer release of Turbo, DreamWorks Animation SKG has a full slate of movies set for production. Two sequels to SKG’s acclaimed How to Train Your Dragon (2010) are set for release in 2014 and 2016. In fall 2013, SKG plans to release Mr. Peabody & Sherman, a Rocky & Bullwinkle spin-off. With five planned releases including new films from the Madagascar and Kung Fu Panda franchises, 2015 figures to be a huge year for Animation SKG. [12]

Sources:

[1] http://animation.about.com/od/industryprofiles/p/dreamworks.htm

[2] http://www.dreamworksanimation.com/company

[3] http://quotes.wsj.com/DWA/company-people

[4] http://www.forbes.com/companies/dreamworks-animation/

[5] http://quotes.wsj.com/DWA?mod=DNH_S_cq

[6] http://animation.about.com/od/industryprofiles/p/dreamworks.htm

[7] http://www.the-numbers.com/movies/series/DreamworksAnimation.php

[8] http://mediadecoder.blogs.nytimes.com/2013/02/26/dreamworks-reports-82-7-million-loss/

[9] http://www.hollywoodreporter.com/news/dreamworks-animation-stock-surges-8-428424

[10] http://www.boxofficemojo.com/movies/?id=croods.htm

[11] http://www.firstshowing.net/2013/watch-dreamworks-animations-speedy-theatrical-trailer-for-turbo/

[12] http://screenrant.com/dreamworks-animation-lineup-2013-2016/all/1/

30 Rockefeller Plaza

New York, NY 10112

212.664.4444

Television

Online

News:

• GOODBYE, GE

• ADIÓS, NBC

• THE TONIGHT SHOW WITH…

• USA! USA!

• NHL COVERAGE SCORES FOR NBC SPORTS NETWORK

• ‘THE VOICE’ NEARS IN ON ‘IDOL’

• USING THE SECOND SCREEN

• A DELICIOUS PREMIERE

• FOR E!, OLDE IS NEW

Overview [1]

2012 Key Metrics [2]

The Business of Communications

January 11th – Romeo Solomon Named General Sales Manager at KICU-TV

January 14th – Cox Media Group Appoints Matt Dalton as National Sales Manager of Long Island’s 106.1 WBLI-FM and 102.3 WBAB-FM

January 30th – CMG Orlando Tammie McGrath promoted to Director of Sales for six stations [4]

February 7th – CMG Tulsa Radio Promotes Matt Ledbetter to Director of Sales for Its Five Station Cluster [5]

March 1st – Tom Calococci Joins CMG Miami as New Program Director East Coast

March 8th – Cox Media Group Atlanta Names Adam Wolfson New General Sales Manager

March 11th – Greg Bilte named general manager, Suzanne Nadell named News Director for CMG Tulsa

March 13th – CMG Jacksonville Named Eric Lauer GSM, CMG San Antonio Names Jeff Garrison as New Program Director of Y100 [6]

April 1st – Lee Rothenthal named News Director at KUTV in Indianapolis [7]

Consolidation

KFOX (Fox) El Paso, Texas DMA 91

WJAC (NBC) Johnstown-Altoona, Pa. DMA 102

KRXI (Fox) Reno, Nev. DMA 108

WTOV (NBC) Wheeling, W.Va.-Steubenville, Ohio DMA 158

Other news concerning COX

Sources

Executives

Terry Press, Co-President

Wolfgang Hammer, Co-President

Finance

New Releases

The Last Exorcism Part II

Awards

Upcoming Releases

The Kings of Summer

Last Vegas

The To Do List

Gambit

Acquisitions

Inside Llewyn Davis

Production

Sources

Past Releases