Category Archives: Film Companies

film companies

MGM

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By Jillian Davis

Mgm-logo[1]

MGM Studios Inc.
245 N Beverly Dr.
Beverly Hills, CA 90210 [16]

Overview [2]

Metro-Goldwyn-Mayer is an American film production and distribution company. It also makes and distributes content for television. MGM has long been considered one of the most glamorous film production companies, winning over 200 Oscars since it was founded, and contributing to the Golden Age of Hollywood bragging that it had, “more stars than there are in the heavens.” As of April 2014, MGM has been celebrating its 90th year as a company with DVD and digital release promotions of its most popular film releases. The company has taken on a major role in the global market for making and distributing films and television.

Brief History [3]

MGM began in 1924 as the consolidation of Metro Pictures Corporation, Goldwyn Pictures, and Louis B. Mayer Productions at the hands of Marcus Loew; who never lived to see the glittering company of stars that later unfolded. Over the past ninety years, MGM has roped in hundreds of Oscars, including Best Picture awards like Gone With the Wind, Midnight Cowboy, West Side Story, and The Silence of the Lambs.
MGM was one of the first film companies formed in Hollywood when motion pictures became a lucrative business, and for about thirty straight years, it was the most dominating, dazzling force in Tinsel Town. The famous Leo the Lion logo has always been the face of MGM, and the emblem received its roaring sound in August of 1928 [8].

Executives

Gary Barberrrrr  Gary Barber– Chairman and Chief Executive Officer [4]

 

Ken Schapiro

Ken Schapiro– Chief Strategic Officer [5]

 

Jonathan Glickman

Jonathan Glickman– President, Motion Picture Group [6]

 

DeneDene B. Stratton– Chief Financial Officer [7]

Financials [9] [13] [25]

Skyfall

Poster of Skyfall, the most financially successful Bond film, helped bring MGM out of debt. [10]

MGM is a privately owned company. Although the company’s numbers are stable at the moment, MGM has suffered during the transition of the Digital Age in film distribution. It had to declare Chapter 11 bankruptcy in 2010 after digitalizing many of its most popular films, and putting them on iTunes. The company acquired too much debt to pay off, so companies like Spyglass Entertainment and Lions Gate stepped in to alleviate the financial burden. MGM’s debt was also a result of its lack of DVD sales. MGM had a revenue of $464 million last quarter, which is down from $903 million the previous year (a 49% drop). The company is currently making its way out of debt, trying to mirror the successes of films like Skyfall, The Girl with the Dragon Tattoo, Red Dawn, and Cabin in the Woods. While MGM is currently a privately owned company, it intends to be publicly traded once it buys up Investor Carl Icahn’s $590 million shares of the company.

Current Projects…

Screen Shot 2014-04-19 at 10.43.40 PM

Fargo airs on FX every Tuesday at 10pm. [12]

…in television

Fargo (television series): the premier of Fargo on FX this year marked a prosperous project for MGM Television. The series is based off of the Coen Brothers’ classic 1996 dark comedy film about a no-good drifter that rolls into a small town in Minnesota and negatively influences the innocent town. The first season is so far very successful, earning a positive rating of 9.4 out of 10 on IMDb [11]. Starring Billy Bob Thornton, Allison Tolman, Colin Hanks, and Martin Freeman, this series began on April 15, 2014 and is keeping the original creators (the Coen Brothers) on as executive producers. The series is being produced alongside FX Productions.

RoboCop-2014

RoboCop is a remake of the 1987 film that eventually became a successful franchise. [14]

…in Film

Robocop: this remake of the 1987 science fiction action film stars Joel Kinnaman, Gary Oldman, Michael Keaton, and Samuel L. Jackson. The film is set in 2028 Detroit, and is about a top-notch cop, husband, and father who is brutally injured in a car bombing incident. The only way he can survive is by fusing his body with a computer-generated robot body suit that makes him an efficient investigating and killing machine for the corporation that built the suit. He must find a balance between the computer that he’s become, and the human soul deep inside of himself. The film has so far exceeded its budget, but is proving to be a bust for film ratings, receiving a 48% on Rotten Tomatoes [15]. The film is being produced alongside Columbia Pictures.

Screen Shot 2014-04-20 at 11.22.39 PM

The Hobbit: The Desolation of Smaug became a successful blockbuster release, and is now out on blu ray. [17]

…in digital release

The Hobbit: The Desolation of Smaug was a blockbuster success during the holiday season of 2013. Starring Ian McKellen, Martin Freeman, and Richard Armitage, this film is the second in a three part trilogy for the franchise of The Lord of the Rings.
Hobbit Bilbo Baggins and his team of other magical friends from Middle Kingdom go on an adventure to save the land from Smaug, while discovering the power of a mysterious yet magical ring.  The film franchise has proved to be a major success since it began, and continues the financial prosperity on high-tech mediums such as blu ray, 3D, and digital quality [18] [19]. The film was distributed alongside Warner Brothers Entertainment.

What’s Next

Screen Shot 2014-04-21 at 8.22.36 AM

22 Jump Street is the sequel to the popular film from 2012 “21 Jump Street” [20]


22 Jump Street is set to be released on June 13, 2014. Starring Channing Tatum and Jonah Hill, this will be the sequel to the smash hit 21 Jump Street, which was based off of the 1987-1991 television show. The film will be about sending two low level cops undercover at a local college to find the source of a major drug deal. This film is not yet rated. [21][22] This film will be distributed alongside Columbia Pictures.

 

 

Screen Shot 2014-04-21 at 8.38.59 AM

If I Stay comes out August 22, 2014 and is based off of the book by Gayl Forman. [23]

 

 

If I Stay is an upcoming drama film  about a gifted young cellist who has to make the most difficult decision of her life: attend Julliard and follow her dreams, or stay with the love of her life. Her decision gets even more difficult when she and hew family are in a car accident and her very life hangs in the balance, and she must decide whether to live a difficult life, or not live at all. The film stars Chloe Grace Moretz, Mireille Enos, and Jamie Blackley, and is set to be released August 22, 2014. [24] This film will be distributed alongside Warner Brothers Entertainment.

 

Sources

[1] MGM logo http://movies.wikia.com/wiki/Leo_the_Lion_%28MGM%29– accessed 4/14/14

[2] MGM overview http://mgm.com/#/about/mgm-history– accessed 4/14/14

[3] MGM brief history http://mgm.com/#/about/mgm-history– accessed 4/15/14

[4] Gary Barber Image http://www3.pictures.zimbio.com/gi/Gary+Barber+National+Multiple+Sclerosis+Society+-tV_OXFJT_il.jpg– accessed 4/15/14

[5] Ken Schapiro image http://latimesblogs.latimes.com/entertainmentnewsbuzz/2011/02/new-mgm-taps-ken-schapiro-as-chief-operating-officer.html– accessed 4/15/14

 [6] Jonathan Glickman image http://voices.washingtonpost.com/reliable-source/2011/02/dc_native_jonathan_glickman_da.html– accessed 4/15/14

[7] Dene B. Stratton image http://www.hollywoodreporter.com/news/mgm-names-dene-b-stratton-237849– accessed 4/15/14

[8] Leo the Lion sound http://movies.wikia.com/wiki/Leo_the_Lion_%28MGM%29– accessed 4/15/14

[9] MGM financial information http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Metro-Goldwyn-Mayer#Consortium_ownership_and_financial_troubles– accessed 4/15/14

[10] Skyfall image http://insidepulse.com/2012/09/17/daniel-craig-stars-in-new-skyfall-poster/– accessed 4/15/14

[11] Fargo information http://www.imdb.com/title/tt2802850/– accessed 4/19/14

[12] Fargo image http://www.fxnetworks.com/fargo– accessed 4/19/14

[13] MGM financial information http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Metro-Goldwyn-Mayer#Post-bankruptcy– accessed 4/19/14

[14] RoboCop image http://www.mirror.co.uk/tv/tv-news/robocop-poster-shows-joel-kinnaman-2691724– accessed 4/19/14

[15] RoboCop information http://www.rottentomatoes.com/m/1200731-robocop/– accessed 4/19/14

[16] MGM address http://www.mgm.com/#/about/contactus– accessed 4/15/14

[17] The Hobbit image http://images3.static-bluray.com/movies/covers/24829_front.jpg– accessed 4/20/14

[18] The Hobbit information http://www.imdb.com/title/tt1170358/– accessed 4/20/14

[19] The Hobbit information (more) http://mgm.com/#/our-titles/2949/The-Hobbit:-The-Desolation-of-Smaug– accessed 4/20/14

[20] 22 Jump Street image http://cdn.fansided.com/wp-content/blogs.dir/229/files/2014/01/22-Jump-Street-Poster.jpg– accessed 4/20/14

[21] 22 Jump Street information http://www.imdb.com/title/tt2294449/– accessed 4/20/14

[22] 22 Jump Street information (more) http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/22_Jump_Street– accessed 4/20/14

[23] If I Stay image http://24.media.tumblr.com/bcf5e3d0a80a258f9db59f8dde77b49c/tumblr_mvmmqs02OM1r287ebo1_500.jpg– accessed 4/20/14

[24] If I Stay information http://www.imdb.com/title/tt1355630/– accessed 4/20/14

[25] MGM financial information http://www.latimes.com/entertainment/envelope/cotown/la-et-mgm-posts-net-income-of-12-million-in-fourth-quarter-20140326,0,4027940.story#axzz2zU6f10Ab– accessed 4/21/14

 

 

Weinstein Company

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By Roxy Silver
[1] The Weinstein Company Logo

[1] The Weinstein Company Logo

HISTORY

Brothers Bob and Harvey Weinstein founded Miramax Films in 1979 and sold it to Disney in 1993. In 2005, they launched The Weinstein Company, TWC, a multimedia and distribution company that encompasses Dimension Films, a genre-label founded in 1993 by Bob Weinstein [2]. TWC and Dimension Films have released mainstream genre and specialty films [3]. Recently the company has made a huge push in its television division.

KEY EXECUTIVES

Harvey

[4] Harvey Weinstein, Co-Chairman TWC

[5] Bob Weinstein, Co-Chairman TWC & Dimension Films

[5] Bob Weinstein, Co-Chairman TWC & Dimension Films

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

FINANCIALS

TWC is privately held. Box office wise, currently TWC is ranked 9th with 2.5% of the market share, grossing $69.1 million from its 8 films [6]. This marks a decrease from the prior year in which TWC ranked 8th with 4.5% market share, grossing $491.7 million while releasing 21 films [7].

IN THEATERS

[7]

[8] Lee Daniels’ The Butler captures the story of a White House butler who served seven presidents through dramatic and changing times in American history.

“Lee Daniels’ The Butler”

The drama starring Forest Whitaker and Oprah Winfrey “was expected to do well, but we didn’t expect to do this well,” shared Erik Lomis, President of Distribution for TWC. “The Butler” is the company’s first No. 1 debut since 2009 [9] with an opening weekend of $24.6 million on August 16, 2013 [10]. The film has accumulated grosses of $116.6 million domestically and grossed $146.5 million internationally [11].

 

 

 

 

 

[12]

[12] Vampire Academy is based on a best selling series about two “mortal vampires” who attend a boarding school and have to protect each other from the terrible forces.

“Vampire Academy”

The highly anticipated fantasy film was a flop for TWC. In attempt to imitate the success of box office hits like “Twilight” and “The Hunger Games,” this young-adult adaption didn’t compliment the best-selling book series as the box office sales attest: It premiered in theaters on February 7, 2014, reeling in $3.9 million during its opening weekend [13]. The film has accumulated grosses of $7.79 million domestically and $7.6 million foreign, totaling $15.3 million worldwide [14].

 

 

 

 

 AWARDS SEASON

TWC had an extremely successful year leading up to The Academy Awards, but fell short with only 11 nominations compared to the 17 from the year before [15]. Regardless, the three films nominated received wide recognition.

[21]

[16] 20 Feet From Stardom

“20 Feet From Stardom”

“Millions know their voices, but no one knows their names”- “20 Feet From Stardom” is a documentary that told the story of Darlene Love who backed up idols, Stevie Wonder, Frank Sinatra, Luther Vandross and Elvis Presley. The film shared her story of struggle of being feet away from the spotlight, but never making it [17]. This film was TWC’s only Academy Award winner for Best Documentary Feature [18].

 

 

 

[24]

[19] Philomena

“Philomena” 

Philomena captures the story of a mother searching for her son but instead finding his gay lover. The drama was nominated for Best Picture, Best Original Score, Best Actress, and Best Adapted Screenplay, but didn’t win any awards at the Oscars [20]. With an opening weekend of $128,435, to date the film combines $37.5 million domestic with $62.4 million foreign, netting TWC $87.9 million [21].

 

 

 

[25]

[22] August: Osage County

“August: Osage County”

The dark comedy based on a Pulitzer Prize winning play portrays a dysfunctional family coming together after a death. Starring Meryl Streep and Julia Roberts, it was nominated for two Oscars[23]. The film had a limited opening weekend of $179,302 in December 2013 and a wide opening of $7.1 million [24]. The film has accumulated $37.7 million domestically and $34.7 million foreign, netting TWC $52.4 million [24].

 

 

 

STRATEGICALLY TWC TAKES ON TV 

A $370 million line of credit from Union Bank helped TWC enter the television market in 2013 [25]. TWC’s COO David Glasser explained, “We’ve invested a lot in TV because we see it as a big part of our future.”[26] Now in 2014 the future is here. Having TV under TWC’s belt is an asset creating versatile operations, revenue, and a presence in the TV industry.

Source: Add Letters

TWC acquired the U.S. distribution rights to the Sky Italia drama series, ‘Gomorra’ from Beta Film, an international distributor [27]. Stefano Sollima directed this series based on a bestselling novel about the Neapolitan crime administration Camorra, and is set for release in 2015 [28]. Harvey Weinstein shares “This project caught our eye a while back for its world-class acting talent, as well as Sollima’s abilities to craft a thriller like none other.” [29] This acquisition benefits TWC with new innovative programming, and Beta Film providing ‘Gomorra’ access into American homes.

Source: Add Letters

With the buzz generated from “Netflix Original Series,” TWC is jumping in. The highly anticipated Weinstein Company drama ,“Marco Polo”, is in production for Netflix and will premiere nearing the end of 2014 [30]. Harvey Weinstein reported, “We are proud to present a series that rivals some of the most successful films we’ve ever made. We are excited to introduce him (Marco Polo) to the world.” [31]

Source: Add Letters

TWC‘s recent partnership with media company Gannett gives TWC an advantage with exclusive access to use Gannett’s expansive media library and retain distribution rights from Gannett’s television stations, newspapers, and digital assets [32]. Weinstein’s President of Television Maryam Banikarim, told Street Insider, “This groundbreaking venture will allow us to discover and explore rich new narratives for a wide array of audiences.” [33]

COMING SOON TO THEATERS NEAR YOU

TWC is continuing their Oscar worthy slate of films this summer, staying true to their demographics and genres of past films. These soon-to-be hit films with A-list names will hopefully yield them success at the 2015 Oscar’s and in the box office.

“The Giver”

The Giver Trailer [34]

“The Giver”, a science-fiction film, directed by Phillip Noyce stars Oscar winners Meryl Streep, Katie Holms, Jeff Bridges, and singer Taylor Swift [35]. The film, which various companies attempted to produce previously, is loosely based on the classic 1993 Lois Lowry novel. Jeff Bridges called it “your next favorite movie.” [36] The story, set to release in August, illustrates a utopian society in which a boy is chosen to learn from an elder the true pains and pleasures of the real world [37]. 

“Sin City: A Dame to Kill For”

Sin City Trailer [38]

The drama/thriller film directed by Robert Rodriguez [39], is a sequel to the successful 2005 Weinstein film “Sin City” which domestically grossed $74 million [40]. The black and white, 3D-esque thriller will be hitting the screens in August. The star packed cast includes Joseph Gordon-Levitt, Lady Gaga, Jeremy Piven, Jessica Alba, and Bruce Wills to name a few [41]. Considering the triumph the original picture had and the megastar cast “Sin City: A Dame to Kill For” will likely attract crowds to the box office.

“Begin Again”

Begin Again Trailer [42]

The romantic-comedy film from writer-director John Carney is set to release on July 4th [43]. “Begin Again” follows a distressed ex-recrod label executive, Mark Ruffalo, fall in love with a young singer-songwriter, Kira Knightley, after her boyfriend, Adam Levine, dumped her [44]. At the Tribecca Film Festival Carney explained, “Begin Again is a true New York story about magical opportunities.” [45] This classic summer “romcom” will catch movie goers attention from the star studded cast, to the simple yet entertaining plot.

FUTURE OF TWC

The future for TWC is positive and optimistic. Prior to last year TWC was a dominant player in Oscar awards. Presuming this year was a fluke, TWC should bounce back stronger next Oscar season. Additionally, the significant infusion of cash into its TV segment, will bolster the company’s position in the industry, while likely improving its bottom line.

 Sources

[1] Weinstein Company Logo, Ramascreen.com, RT: 4/12/2014

[2] “About The Weinstein Company”, Weinsteinco.com, RT: 4/11/2014

[3] “Dimension Films”, Disney.Wika.com, RT: 4/11/2014

[4] Harvey Weinstein, Co-Chairman, Time, RT: 4/10/2014

[5] Bob Weinstein, Co-Chairman TWC & Dimension Films, Zimbo.com, RT:4/10/2014

[6] Studio Market Share 2014, BoxofficeMojo.com, RT: 4/15/2014

[7] Studio Market Share 2013, BoxofficeMojo.com, RT: 4/15/2014

[8] Lee Daniels’ The Butler Movie Poster, IMBD, RT: 4/12/2014

[9] “The Butler’ Serves Up Box-Office Sucess at No. 1”, Fox News, 8/18/2013, RT: 4/12/2014

[10] “Weekend Box Office: ‘Lee Daniels’ The Butler Wins Again”, Movie Fone, 8/25/2013, RT: 4/12/201

[11] Lee Daniels’ The Butler (2013), BoxofficeMojo.com, RT: 4/13/2014

[12] Vampire Academy Movie Poster, themidnightgarden.com, RT: 4/14/2014

[13] “BOX OFFICE: Vampire Academy’ Has No Bite”, Yahoo Movies, 2/10/2014, RT: 4/14/2014

[14] Vampire Academy (2014), BoxofficeMojo.com, RT: 4/14/2014

[15] OSCARS: Nominations By Studio & Distributor, Deadline Hollywood, RT: 4/12/2014

[16] 20 Feet From Stardom Movie Poster, Filmberg.com, RT: 4/13/2014

[17] “20 Feet From Stardom Synopsis”, 20feetfromstardom.com, RT: 4/12/2014

[18] “Oscars 2014: ’20 Feet From Stardom’ wins for documentary”, Los Angles Times, 3/02/2014, RT: 4/12/2014

[19] Philomena Movie Poster, impawards.com, RT: 4/14/2014

[20] Oscar Nominations By Picture, Deadline Hollywood, RT: 4/14/2014

[21] Philomena (2013), Boxofficemojo.com, RT: 4/14/2014

[22] August: Osage County Movie Poster, broadyway.com, RT: 4/15/2014

[23] “Harvey Weinstein on disappointing Oscar showing for ‘Osage County’ have only myself to blame”, Entertainment Weekly, 2/21/2014, RT: 4/15/2014

[24] August: Osage County (2013), Boxofficemojo.com, RT: 4/15/2014

[25] “The Weinstein Co. Finalizing $370 Million Credit Facility: Report”, Deadline Hollywood, 9/19/2013, RT: 4/16/2014

[26] “The Weinstein Company: stirring drama”, ScreenDaily.com, 4/02/2014, RT: 4/16/2014

[27] “TWC Closes Deal for U.S. Rights to Italy’s ‘Gomorrah’ Skein”, Variety, 4/07/2014, RT: 4/16/2014

[28] “Weinstein to build Gomorra in US”, c21media.net, 3/08/2014, RT: 4/17/2014

[29] Weinstein Co Acquires Italian Crime Drama Series ‘Gomorra’ , Deadline Hollywood, 4/08/2014, RT: 4/15/2014

[30] Marco Polo (TV Series 2014), IMBD, RT: 4/18/2014

[31] “‘Marco Polo’: Production underway for Weinstein Company’s Netflix Show”, Entertainment Weekly, 4/08/2014, RT: 4/16/2014

[32] “Gannett (GCI) and The Weinstein Co. Enter First Look Film And Television Deal”, Streetinsider.com, 4/02/2014, RT: 4/16/2014

[33] “Gannnett Co., Ince And The Weinstein Company Enter Into A Unique First Look Film And Television Development Deal”, PR News Wire, 4/02/2014, RT: 4/16/2014

[34] The Giver Trailer, YouTube, 3/19/2014, RT: 4/14/2014

[35] “Weinstein Dates ‘The Giver’ Starring Meryl Streep and Jeff Bridges for August 2014”, IMBD, 9/21/2013, RT: 4/16/2014

[36] “Jeff Bridges Talks About Your Next Favorite Movie”, Moviepilot.com, 2/12/2014,  RT: 4/16/2014

[37] “‘The Giver’ trailer: Meryl Streep! Jeff Bridges! Color?!”, Entertainment Weekly, 3/19/2014, RT: 4/17/2014

[38] “Sin City 2″ Trailer Release”, Weinsteinco.com, 3/17/2014, RT: 4/16/2014

[39] Sin City: A Dame To Kill For Trailer, YouTube, 4/06/2014, RT: 4/16/2014

[40] Sin City (2005), Boxofficemojo.com, RT: 4/17/2014

[41] “5 Reasons you should be excited for Sin City: A Dame To Kill For”, Metro, 3/07/2014, RT: 4/16/2014

[42] Begin Again Trailer, YouTube, 3/28/2014, RT: 4/16/2014

[43] “‘Begin Again’ Movie 2014 Official Trailer Released Starring Adam Levine and Keira Knightley”, Hallels.com, 4/01/2014, RT: 4/16/2014

[44] “Trailer and Poster for Begin Again Starring Keira Knightley, Mark Ruffalo”, Movienewz.com, 4/03/2014, RT: 4/16/2014

[45] “Begin Again To Close Tribeca Film Festival”, Triebcaflim.com, 3/20/2014, RT: 4/16/2014

Warner Bros. Pictures

Posted on by 
By Ken Kawada

Courtesy of Deadline

Brief Overview

The Warner Brothers Pictures was founded on April 4, 1923, and it is one of the major studios in Hollywood. The studio handles production and distribution of films, and finances or co-finances their films. They collaborate with other studios such as Village Roadshow Pictures, Castle Rock Entertainment and RatPac-Dune Entertainment. The studio is known for producing  award winning films such as The Dark Knight, Inception and Argo. [1]

Key Executives

Greg Silverman

Courtesy of Deadline

Silverman is the President, Creative Development and Worldwide Production for Warner Brothers Pictures. Appointed in June 2013, he oversees the studio’s development activities, global production and budget. He also works with the studio’s senior management to seek opportunities for the company. [2]

Steven S. Spira

Courtesy of Variety

Spira is the President, Worldwide Business Affairs for Warner Brothers Pictures. Promoted on January 2004, he is responsible for overseeing the business aspects of the studio’s operations that include development, production and distribution of films. [3]

Sue Kroll

Courtesy of Film Independent

Kroll is the President, Worldwide Marketing and International Distribution for Warner Brothers Pictures. She oversees the strategic creation and marketing campaigns for the studio’s international releases. [4]

Recent Releases

The Hobbit: The Desolation of Smaug

Courtesy of Movie Wallpapers

 

Continuing the success of Peter Jackson’s epic fantasy, The Hobbit: An Unexpected Journey, Warner Brothers Pictures released its latest sequel on December 2, 2013, just in time for the award season. The film follows the titular character, Bilbo Baggins as he continues his journey with the dwarves to reclaim their homeland from the dragon Smaug. Based on J. R. R. Tolkien’s fantasy novel of the same name, this anticipated sequel is the second film in the The Hobbit franchise. [5]

The film’s release was the fourth best opening weekend for the month of December, slightly behind the first Hobbit film. On Metacritic, the film received an average review score of 66 out of 100, which indicates generally favorable reviews from critics. Many critics have highlighted the overall improvement from the first film in the series, but still criticized the length. [7]

It has grossed over $950 million at the worldwide box office to this date, making it the fourth highest-grossing film of 2013. The Desolation of Smaug received 3 nominations at this year’s Academy Awards, including best visual effects.  [6]

The LEGO Movie

Courtesy of Forbes

 

This 3D animated film is this year’s unexpected hit. Starring the voices of Christ Pratt, Will Ferrell, Elizabeth Banks, Liam Neeson, Morgan Freeman and Will Arnett, the film tells the story of an ordinary LEGO construction worker, mini-figure who joins a quest to stop an evil tyrant from destroying their world. [8]

The film’s mass appeal to both children and adults contributed to the film’s success at the box office. The studio has already announced a sequel for the film, potentially starting a new franchise for Warner Bros. As of now, the sequel is set to be released in 2017. Jared Stern and Michelle Morgan were hired to pen the script for the sequel, but it is still unknown whether writer/director of the first film, Phil Lord and Chris Miller will return. The plot is also still yet to be determined. [9]

The film received an average review score of 82 out of 100 on Metacritic, indicating an universal acclaim from critics. The film’s release was the second best opening weekend for the month of February, behind Mel Gibson’s The Passion of the Christ. Grossing over $400 million to this date on a $60 million budget, the film is projected to continue its success in Blu-Ray and DVD sales. [10] [11]

300: Rise of an Empire

Courtesy of Nerdlocker

 

7 years after the release of their blockbuster film, 300, the studio finally released the long anticipated sequel on March 7 of this year. The film was initially scheduled to be released last August, but due to unknown circumstances, the film was pushed back to March of this year. Based on Frank Miller’s yet to be published graphic novel Xerxes, the film tells a story of Greek general Themistokles, and his charge against the Persian forces led by Xerxes and Artemisia. Zack Synder, who directed the first film in the series, served as the writer and producer for this film. [12]

As of April, the film has grossed over $300 million on a $110 million budget. 67.9% of the total gross comes from the international market. Compared to its predecessors, the film is not as successful, but still on a good track thanks to the international market. On the critic side, the film had a similar average review score with its predecessor, scoring 48 out of 100 on Metacritic, indicating mixed or average reviews. Fans of the first film have criticized the storyline, but praised the visual style. [13] [14]

86th Academy Awards

Courtesy of International Business Times

In addition to the financial success for Warner Brothers Pictures, the studio also collected 21 nominations at the 86th Academy Awards, personal best for Warner Brothers. Gravity, which was released last October, tied with American Hustle for most nominations. By the end of the night, Gravity won seven awards, including Best Director for Alfonso Cuaron, who was the first Hispanic director to ever win in the category. Spike Jonze’ Her also received 5 nominations, including Best Picture. The film eventually won Best Writing for an original screenplay. The studio won a total of 10 Oscars by the end of the night. [15]

Financial

In 2013, Warners Brothers Pictures had the most successful theatrical year in company history, taking the number one spot in domestic, international and worldwide box office. The studio cumulated $1.893 billion in domestic box office, and $3.145 in international box office, surpassing the $5 billion mark, which is the first for the studio and only the second time that the feat has been achieved by any studio in Hollywood. Bolstered by the successes of films like The Hobbit: The Desolation of Smaug, Gravity, and Man of Steel, Warners Brothers was able to beat other major competitors like Disney. [1] [16] [17]

Coming Soon…

Warner Brothers Pictures will be releasing Transcendence, starring Johnny Depp, and directed by cinematographer, Wally Pfister, making his directional debut. Pfister is a usual collaborator of Christopher Nolan, known for The Dark Knight and Inception. As of now, the critical reception has mostly been negative, which can greatly impact the box office result. Hoping to continue their success from last year, they will be releasing more blockbusters as we approach the summer season. Godzilla, Edge of Tomorrow and Jupiter Ascending are other films that are slated to be released later this year. [18]

 

Sources

[1] Warner Bros. Pictures

[2] Greg Silverman

 [3] Steven S. Spira

[4] Sue Kroll

[5] The Hobbit IMDB

[6] The Hobbit Box Office Mojo

[7] The Hobbit Metacritic

[8] The LEGO Movie IMDB

[9] Cinema Blend, The LEGO Movie Sequel 

[10] The LEGO Movie Metacritic

[11] The LEGO Movie Box Office Mojo

[12] 300: Rise of an Empire on IMDB

[13] 300: Rise of an Empire Box Office Mojo

[14] 300: Rise of an Empire Metacritic 

[15] The Hollywood Reporter Oscar Coverage

[16] Warner Bros. Leads Global Market Share

[17] Comingsoon.net Warner Bros. Pictures  2013 Box Office

[18] Deadline Hollywood coverage on WonderCon

Universal Pictures

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By Debora Kaya

ABOUT

Universal Pictures is a division of NBC Universal that is responsible for the production and/or distribution of theatrical and non-theatrical filmed entertainment for a global audience [1].  The mother company, NBC Universal has several divisions, including Universal Television, Universal Studios Home Entertainment, Universal Parks & Resorts, Focus Features, Working Title Films, Illumination Entertainment, and Universal Animation Studios. With these numerous divisions, NBC Universal is able to cater various entertainments to its vast audience [2].

Universal Pictures also offers services for television episodes, commercials, and films. Universal Pictures has studios that include restaurants, theaters, shops, boutiques as well as entertainment venues.

HISTORY

Universal began in 1906 with Carl Laemmle, a German immigrant who opened his first nickelodeon theater. He then established the Independent Moving Pictures Company of America and was involved in production, distribution, and exhibition. This made the company vertically integrated. Universal Pictures is known for its diverse films. Hit films released by Universal Pictures have been Jaws, E.T. The Extra-Terrestrial, the Jurassic Park series, and the more recent Despicable Me 2 and The Purge [3].

POPULAR & RECENT FILM RELEASES

Les Misérables

A very popular film Universal Pictures co-produced with Working Title Films, Relativity

Les Misérables (2012) – courtesy of imdb

Media and Cameron Mackintosh Ltd. is Les Misérables. Les Misérables is based on a musical of the same name (by Alain Boublin and Claude-Michel Schonberg). The movie stared a few well known actors including High Jackman, Russell Crowe, Anne Hathaway, and Amanda Seyfried. Coming out in 2012, this movie was nominated for a myriad amount of awards and won several. It won Best Production Design and Best Sound among others at the British academy Film Award. It also won Best Motion Picture Golden Globe Award along with an Academy Award for Best Sound Mixing and Best Makeup and Hairstyling. Overall, this movie was very well received grossing $441,809,770 in the box office [4].

47 Ronin

Released December 25, 2013, 47 Ronin was co-produced with Relativity Media, H2F Entertainment, Mid Atlantic Films, Moving Picture Company and Stuber Productions. Featuring the actor Keanu Reeves, this movie tells the tale of Ronin in 18th century Japan who seek to avenge the death of their lord [5].

COMING SOON

Universal Studios Japan – [6]

Universal Pictures has been known to open theme parks to bring to life movies and television productions. Projects for new attractions are in the works including Universal Studios Japan’s Wizarding World of Harry Potter that is due to open July 15th. This project, which has taken $500 million to construct is similar to the attraction at Universal Orlando resort that opened in 2010.

The Purge: Anarchy (2014)

 Universal Pictures doesn’t only act as a theatrical distributor but also produces a number

The Purge: Anarchy movie cover – courtesy of imdb

of films. Universal Pictures is producing a sequel of the very popular movie The Purge (2013), a science fiction horror thriller. The Purge was a huge hit in theaters making $89, 328, 627 with a budget of $3 million. This sequel, The Purge: Anarchy is set to be released worldwide on July 18th, 2014. Unlike the first movie that took place within the confines of a suburban home, The Purge: Anarchy will focus on a couple on the outside, who find themselves in the middle of the purge commencement after their car breaks down. This movie is expected to be yet another box office hit [7].

 

 

Lucy (2014)

Lucy follows the story of yet another memorable female action hero brought to life by Luc Besson (writer/director for both La Femme Nikita and  The Fifth Element among others). In this story, the protagonist Lucy finds herself involved in a dark deal by accident and is able to eventually break free from her captors using her newly found abilities.

Lucy (2014) – courtesy of imdb

This movie, which features both Scarlett

Johansson and Morgan Freeman, is set to be released on August 8th 2014 in the United States. Universal Pictures is responsible for its distribution worldwide except for France, Benelux and China. [8]

 

 

 

 

Get On Up (2014)

Another film Universal Pictures is responsible for distributing is Get On Up. This movie, is about the life of James Brown. It is directed by Tate Taylor who is also responsible for his four-time Academy Award-nominated blockbuster The Help. Get On Up chronicles the rise of James Brown from his living in extreme poverty to becoming a very influential musician. This movie is set to be released on the first of August in 2014. Universal Pictures will distribute in the United States while Universal Pictures International (also referred to as UPI) will distribute in France and the Netherlands (2015) [9].

Get On Up – courtesy of imdb

 

SOURCES

[1]-http://www.google.com/finance?cid=2848820

[2]-http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/NBCUniversal

[3]-http://www.nbcunicareers.com/our-businesses/universal-pictures

[4]-http://www.imdb.com/title/tt1707386/

[5]-http://injapan.gaijinpot.com/work/work-tips/2011/01/24/foreigners-in-business-working-at-universal-studios-japan/

Relativity Media

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www.relativitymedia.com

–Relativity Media Logo–

Relativity Media, LLC

9242 Beverly Blvd.
Suite 300
Beverly Hills, CA 90210
310.724-7700

History

Founded in 2004, Relativity Media began as a mediator between studios and investors to arrange film deals. Since then, it has become a full-scale film studio that has produced critically acclaimed films such as “The Fighter”, and “The Social Network.”  In addition to being involved in the production, financing and or distribution of over 200 films, Relativity has divisions in television, sports, music fashion and digital media–truly establishing the company as a next-generation studio. [1]

LEADERSHIP

Ryan Kavanaugh--CEO, Relativity Media

Ryan Kavanaugh–CEO, Relativity Media

Ryan Kavanaugh founded Relativity in 2004, and has had an active role in its transition into a film studio and beyond. Kavanaugh began his career in Hollywood aiding in the finance for companies such as Universal, Sony and Warner Bros. His experience in film finance has allowed Relativity to produce well-performing films on lower budgets [2]. Under his leadership,Relativity Media has produced over 200 films for a return of over $17 billion in revenue and 60 Oscar nominations [3].

Tucker Tooley, President-Relativity Media

Tucker Tooley, President-Relativity Media

Happy Walters, Co-Chief Operating Officer-Relativity Media

Happy Walters, Co-Chief Operating Officer-Relativity Media

Robbie Brenner, President of Production-Relativity Media

Robbie Brenner, President of Production-Relativity Media

FINANCIALS

Relativity Media is a privately owned company, however its current projects and investments indicate its financial success. As stated before, the company has earned over $17 billion dollars through film productions. With this revenue, Relativity has been able to establish itself in other sectors that have contributed to its financial standings. In September of 2013, Relativity announced it would be creating a fashion division called M3/Relativity [4], in which Relativity would act as a representative for various members of the fashion industry from designers to make up artists. The company also has a sports division [5], in which it represents athletes such as Dwight Howard and David Ortiz.

On March 26th, 2014 Relativity acquired a share of Downtown Records [6] in which Relativity would invest in Downtown to sign new artists and expand their label, as well as to help the record label to share in Relativity’s global success. Most recently on April 14th, 2014, Relativity put in a bid of $500 million to acquire Maker Studios, and nearly $1.1 billion in stock. Founded in 2009, Maker Studios is a short form, online video platform and production company that targets younger audiences and the demand for online content [7]. Though Maker Studios had already approved a merger with Disney, executives at Relativity continue to show their eagerness to create new, exciting forms of content that further enforces Relativity’s brand not only creatively but monetarily as well.

TELEVISION

Relativity Media has also begun to break the mold by establishing a television branch in 2008 called RelativityREAL, which was recreated as Relativity Television in 2013.The television division led by CEO Tom Forman had originally produced exclusively unscripted content, but is now in the development stages of producing comedies and dramas [8]. Amongst its programming is one of the most wildly popular reality series on television, “Catfish.” “Catfish” follows Nev Shulman, producer of Catfish: The Movie, on his quest to help those who are in online relationships find the truth behind the computer screen. The third season of Catfish is set to premiere May 7th, 2014 on MTV, and is expected to do as well in ratings as “Catfish: Season 2”, which reached the number one spot in the 12-34 demographic in June 2013 [9].

Nev Shulman: Host and Executive Producer of MTV's "Catfish"

Nev Shulman: Host and Executive Producer of MTV’s “Catfish”

FILM

Relativity Media’s film division is the largest sector of the company, and is responsible for films such as the Nicholas Sparks penned-hit “Safe Haven” and war-time drama thriller “Act of Valor” both of which earned about $70 million each in the domestic box office [10].

"Oculus" In Theatres Now

“Oculus” In Theatres Now

For 2014, Relativity has done well in the box office. “Oculus”, the horror thriller, has earned over $21 million with a $5 million budget since its April 11th release [11]. Considering its low budget and competition with blockbusters such as “Rio 2” and “Captain America: The Winter Soldier”, “Oculus” is receiving immense success this spring season.

In addition to “Oculus”, Relativity was moderately successful with “3 Days to Kill” which earned about $36 million world wide on a $28 million budget and stars Academy Award winner Kevin Costner [12].

The future of Relativity’s Film division is rather promising. On April 25th 2014, Relativity will release “Brick Mansions”, a dystopian action thriller starring late Paul Walker in one of his last performances, and has been much anticipated by viewers.

DIVERSITY IN FILM [13]

Relativity Creative Executive Josh Reinhold believes the upcoming projects will establish them as a main competitor in the entertainment industry. He believes that Relativity is on the forefront of producing films with diverse casts whom tell a story that more than just the majority can enjoy and relate to.

Discussing plans for Relativity to establish its own “arthouse” film division 278 Films (name in development), Reinhold believes this will open the doors for stories that “hasn’t been told before.” One of these stories takes the form of an upcoming film titled “Desert Dance”, which tells the story of a young Iranian man whom is threatened by his government for doing the thing he loves, which is to dance. Reinhold believes the value in films such as “Desert Dance” (undated), is that there are many other audiences to reach that will fall in love with the characters and make a meaningful connection with them.

Another film Reinhold feels will break the mold is “Blackbird”, which is set for a November 14th 2014 release. The film depicts the struggle of a young African-American woman as she begins her career in the music industry, and was written by Gina Prince Blythewood (author of “Love & Basketball”). Of “Blackbird” and “Desert Dance”, Reinhold said: “Seeing how Hollywood will have to shift in the way they cast actors and diversify stories is inspiring” [13].

SOURCES:

[1] http://www.relativitymedia.com/About.aspx                                                              DATE ACCESSED: April 12th, 2014.

[2] http://www.forbes.com/sites/dorothypomerantz/2013/04/17/why-ryan-kavanaugh-is-now-the-most-watched-man-in-hollywood/   DATE ACCESSED: April 18th, 2014

[3] http://www.relativitymedia.com/About.aspx (Ryan Kavanaugh CEO Bio)                    DATE ACCESSED: March 31st, 2014

[4] http://www.hollywoodreporter.com/news/relativity-media-moves-fashion-representation-625951                                                                                                         DATE ACCESSED: February 19th, 2014

[5] http://www.relativitysports.com/                                                                               DATE ACCESSED: April 20th, 2014

[6] http://www.billboard.com/biz/articles/news/record-labels/5944964/relativity-media-acquires-stake-in-downtown-records                                                                            DATE ACCESSED: April 12th, 2014

[7]  http://variety.com/2014/biz/news/relativity-offers-up-to-900-million-for-maker-studios-in-bid-to-outflank-disney-1201156736/    DATE ACCESSED: April 15th, 2014

[8] http://www.relativitymedia.com/RelativityTV.aspx                                                      DATE ACCESSED: April 15th, 2014

[9] http://www.realitytvworld.com/news/mtv-announces-premiere-for-third-season-of-catfish-tv-show-16155.php  DATE ACCESSED: April 15th, 2014

[10] http://boxofficemojo.com/

DATE ACCESSED: April 20th, 2014

[11] http://boxofficemojo.com/movies/?id=oculus.htm                                                  DATE ACCESSED: April 20th, 2014

[12] http://boxofficemojo.com/movies/?id=threedaystokill.htm                                         DATE ACCESSED: April 20th, 2014

[13] Personal Phone Interview with Creative Executive at Relativity Media Josh Reinhold  DATE OF INTERVIEW: March 25th, 2014

Lionsgate Entertainment

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By Ali Koskoris

Lionsgate Entertainment

Photo Courtesy of destructoid.com[i]

Contact Information:[ii]

2700 Colorado Avenue, Suite 200, Santa Monica,CA 90404

1-310-449-9200

www.lionsgate.com

 

About Lionsgate Entertainment: 

Founded in 1997 in Canada [iii], Lionsgate Films is an independent international entertainment company and segment of the Lionsgate Entertainment Corporation.  It produces and distributes motion pictures, television programming and syndication, animation, and digital media. [iv]  In 2003 the company merged with Artisan Entertainment and in 2012 it purchased Summit Entertainment for approximately $413 million. [v]

Lionsgate has gained momentum by creating blockbuster film franchises based on books, including Twilight, The Hunger Games, and Divergent. [vi] With a focus on cost discipline, Lionsgate releases approximately fifteen feature films and six to eight specialty films a year through its sister company, Roadside Attractions. The company television section also has close to thirty television series distributed through multiple mediums, including Mad Men and Orange is the New Black, and holds contracts with Hulu, Netflix, and Amazon. [vii]

 

Key Executives:

Joe Feltheimer   Michael BurnsSteve BeeksBrian Goldsmith

Photos and info Courtesy of: http://www.lionsgate.com [viii]

 

Financials:
In 2013 Lionsgate Entertainment earned $2.7 billion dollars – a 70.58% growth from 2012- and had a gross income of $1.3 billion dollars- a 95.22% gross income increase from 2012. [ix]  Thus far in 2014 (through April 13), Lionsgate has grossed approximately $232 million domestically, led by recent release, Divergent and followed by The Hunger Games: Catching Fire, which is no longer in theatres. [x] The company stays small, with just 636 employees worldwide. [xi]

 

What’s Happening Now?
In 2014, Lionsgate Entertainment released eight films, and five are still in theatres.  Divergent, The Hunger Games: Catching Fire, and I, Frankenstein lead 2014 in gross so far respectively (with the latter two out of theatres). [xii]  

 

Divergent
The third of Lionsgate’s novel-to-film franchises, Divergent tells the story of a young woman who finds out she does not fit into the confined factions of her world and is “Divergent.” She must find out the truth about what it means to be Divergent when she uncovers a plot to destroy her faction. The film, directed by Neil Burger, is based on the Veronica Roth novel and features rising star Shailene Woodley. [xiii]

Photo Courtesy of http://themoviemash.com/ [xvi]

Photo Courtesy of themoviemash.com [xiv]

In its opening weekend (21-23 March 2014), Divergent topped the box office charts, grossing approximately $54.6 million domestically to its $85 million budget. Currently in its fourth week in theatres, the film has grossed $178.4 million worldwide. [xv] Like Harry Potter and the Twilight Saga, Lionsgate announced on 15 April 2014 that Allegiant, the third and final book of the series, will be split into two films. Part one will be released on 18 March 2016 and Part 2 will be released on 24 March, 2017. [xvi]

 


                                                                                                                 

Draft Day
Draft Day tells the story of an NFL general manager who works to rebuild his team by trading for the number one pick. The film is directed by Ivan Reitman and it stars American sportscaster Chris Berman and actress Jennifer Garner. [xvii]

Photo Courtesy of IMDb

During its opening weekend (11-13 April 2014), the film ranked number four in domestic weekend gross, making about $9.7 million.  As of 18 April 2014, it has grossed $15.8 million domestically. [xviii]

Tyler Perry’s The Single Moms Club
Tyler Perry’s The Single Moms Club is about a group of five single moms who overcome problems through their support group. Written and directed by Tyler Perry, the film stars Nia Long and Wendi McLendon-Covey. [xix]

Photo Courtesy of IMDb

Photo Courtesy of IMDb

For its opening weekend, the film ranked number five in domestic gross with $8 million. In week five (as of 17 April 2014), the film has grossed $15.8 million domestically. [xx]

 

Photo Courtesy of IMDb

Photo Courtesy of IMDb [xxv]

Joe                                                                                              In addition to these three films, Lionsgate is boasting Joe, a film distributed by Roadside Attractions.  The film, starring Nicolas Cage and directed by David Gordon Green, tells the story of an ex-con who befriends a teenaged boy. [xxi]  The film is different from Lionsgate’s other recent films because it was released On Demand on the same day it was released in theatres (11 April 2014). [xxii] The film was released in just 48 theatres domestically and, as of 20 April 2014, has grossed about $330 thousand at the domestic box office. [xxiii]  The film has received positive reviews, with an 84% rating from Rotten Tomatoes and a 79% rating from audiences. [xxiv]

 

In Other News:
Photo Courtesy of rocketjump.com

Photo Courtesy of rocketjump.com [xxvii]

On 14 April 2014, Lionsgate announced that it has created a multi-year partnership with video creator RocketJump Studios, which gained fame through its web series Video Game High School. RocketJump has 6.8 million subscribers and shows its content through multiple platforms.  The partnership gives Lionsgate access to RocketJump’s digital content and gives RocketJump access to Lionsgate’s international marketing resources. [xxvi]

 

Photo Courtesy of Yahoo!

Photo Courtesy of Yahoo! [xxix]

On 20 March 2014 Lionsgate extended its contract with producer Grindstone Entertainment Group through a multi-year agreement. The team has been successful in the past with films like Empire State and Frozen Ground. Lionsgate Co-COO Steve Beeks said that Lionsgate is excited about the extension. [xxviii]

 
 
 

What’s to Come:
Lionsgate will release its newest film, The Quiet Ones, on 25 April 2014.  The film, based on a true story, directed by John Pogue, and starring Jared Harris and Sam Claflin, tells the story of a professor and a group of students who uncover terrible secrets when they experiment on a young girl.[xxx]
Photo Courtesy of IMDb

Photo Courtesy of IMDb [xxxi]

Reviews from critics on Rotten Tomatoes seem to be mixed, so it should be interesting to see how the film does in theatres. [xxxii]

 

 

 

Photo Courtesy of IMDb [xxxiv]

 

On 25 July 2014, Lionsgate will release Step Up: All In, the fifth installment of the Step Up series.  The film tells of a dancer and his dance crew who work to win an LA dance competition.  The film is directed by Trish Sie and stars Ryan Guzman and Briana Evigan. Multiple stars from the previous films are featured as well.  There are not yet any reviews for the film. [xxxiii]

 

 

 

 

 

Photo Courtesy of IMDb

Photo Courtesy of IMDb [xxxvi]

 
 

Lionsgate will also be releasing The Expendables 3 on 15 August 2014.  Directed by Patrick Hughes and starring Sylvester Stallone and Jason Statham, the third film in the series tells of the conflict between The Expendables and the founder’s new, younger group of Expendables.  The film also has not received any reviews. [xxxv] 
 
 
 
 
 

Photo Courtesy of itk.ua

Photo Courtesy of itk.ua [xxxix]

In addition to releasing three new films, Lionsgate will be recognized as the Company of Distinction for 2014 at the Banff World Media Festival (8-11 June 2014). [xxxvii] Lionsgate will be receiving this award because of its success, its diverse programming, and its “visionary approach to the global television business.” [xxxviii]

 
 
 
 
 

[i] Lionsgate Logo  From 26 July 2009. Retrieved 18 April 2014.
[ii] Lionsgate Contact  Retrieved 18 April 2014.
[iii] Founded From 24 Jan 2014. Retrieved 18 April 2014.
[iv] What Liongate does Updated 17 April 2014. Retrieved 18 April 2014.
[v] Merging with Artisan and Summit From 24 Jan 2014. Retrieved 18 April 2014.
[vi] Blockbuster Film Franchises Retrieved 18 April 2014.
[vii] Distribution Retrieved 18 April 2014.
[viiii] Key Executives Retrieved 18 April 2014.
[ix] 2013 Gross Income Retrieved 18 April 2014.
[x] 2014 Income Until April 13. Retrieved 18 April 2014.
[xi] Employees Retrieved 18 April 2014.
[xii] 2014 Films Retrieved 18 April 2014.
[xiii] Divergent Synopsis Retrieved 18 April 2014.
[xiv] Divergent Poster Retrieved 18 April 2014.
[xv] Divergent Financials As of 17 April 2014. Retrieved 18 April 2014.
[xvi] Divergent’s Future From 15 April 2014. Retrieved 18 April 2014.
[xvii] Draft Day Synopsis Retrieved 18 April 2014.
[xviii] Draft Day Opening Week As of 17 April 2014. Retrieved 18 April 2014.
[xix] Tyler Perry’s the Single Moms Club Synopsis Retrieved 18 April 2014.
[xx] Tyler Perry Financials As of 17 April 2014. Retrieved 18 April 2014.
[xxi] Joe Synopsis Retrieved 20 April 2014.
[xxii] Joe On Demand Retrieved 20 April 2014.
[xxiii] Joe Financials As of 20 April 2014. Retrieved 20 April 2014.
[xxiv] Joe Ratings As of 20 April 2014. Retrieved 20 April 2014.
[xxv] Joe Poster Retrieved 20 April 2014.
[xxvi] RocketJump Studios From 14 April 2014. Retrieved 18 April 2014.
[xxvii] RocketJump Logo Retrieved 18 April 2014.
[xxviii] Grindstone Extension 20 March 2014. Retrieved 18 April 2014.
[xxix] Grindstone Logo Retrieved 18 April 2014.
[xxx] The Quiet Ones Synopsis Retrieved 19 April 2014.
[xxxi] The Quiet Ones Poster  Retrieved 19 April 2014.
[xxxii] The Quiet Ones Reviews As of 19 April 2014. Retrieved 19 April 2014.
[xxxiii] Step Up: All In Synopsis Retrieved 19 April 2014.
[xxxiv] Step Up: All In Poster  Retrieved 19 April 2014.
[xxxv] The Expendables 3 Synopsis Retrieved 19 April 2014.
[xxxvi] The Expendables Poster Retrieved 19 April 2014.
[xxxvii] “Company of Distinction for 2014” From 27 March 2014. Retrieved 19 April 2014.
[xxxviii] Why Receiving Award  Retrieved 19 April 2014.
[xxxix] Banff Logo Retrieved 19 April 2014.

DreamWorks Studios

Posted on by 
By Kevin Sir

Courtesy of wholemovieinfo.com [a]

DreamWorks Studios
100 Universal City Plaza Dr., Bldg. 5121
Universal City, CA 91608
P: (818) 733-9300
http://www.dreamworksstudios.com/

Key Executives

spielberg_steven_website

Steven Spielberg (Principal Partner) [b]

snider_stacey_website

Stacey Snider (Principal Partner / Co-Chairman / CEO) [c]

small_jeff_website

Jeff Small (President / Chief Operating Officer) [d]

bario_holly_website

Holly Bario (President of Production) [e]

Company Overview

In 2007, DreamWorks introduced Stacey Snider, who was a former Chairman of Universal Studios, as the current Co-Chair and CEO of DreamWorks. In 2008, a $1.5 billion dollar deal was made with an Indian investment firm, Reliance ADA Group enabling DreamWorks’ films to be distributed and promoted by The Walt Disney Studios. [1] [2]

Brief History

Formerly identified as DW II Distribution Company, LLC, DreamWorks Studios is now known as DreamWorks, LLC, DreamWorks SKG, DreamWorks Pictures, and/or DreamWorks. The emergence of DreamWorks took place on October 12, 1994 when Steven Spielberg, Jeffrey Katzenberg, and David Geffen decided to establish Hollywood a new studio. The “SKG” appearing on the bottom of the logo for both DreamWorks and DreamWorks Animation (DWA) was created based off of these founders’ last names. In 2004, DWA separated from DreamWorks to form two companies. The license for the “DreamWorks” name and logo are licensed through DWA. Viacom, who was the parent company of Paramount Pictures on December 11, 2005, bought DreamWorks, however in 2008, DreamWorks gained back its independence. [1] [2]

Financials

MV5BMTQ3ODY4NzYzOF5BMl5BanBnXkFtZTgwNjI3OTE4MDE@._V1_SX214_AL_

Need For Speed Poster,
Courtesy of IMDb [f]

Contrary to DreamWorks Animation, DreamWorks Studio’s financials are unattainable since the company still remains as a privately held company. However, monumental financial information about DreamWorks can be attained through deeper research. As mentioned in the Company Overview, the agreements made with both Viacom and Reliance ADA Group add up to be about $3 billion dollars and this has saved DreamWorks’ debt from the previous years’ loss. Also, the information and performance from past films can roughly estimate how the company is doing in terms of revenue. DreamWorks’ most recent film, “Need For Speed” released in March 14, 2014 has successfully made profit overall.  To look at it closely, the domestic gross profit for “Need For Speed,” which is roughly $42 million dollars did not even nearly meet its production budget of $66 million dollars. However, the film was a success internationally considering it made $143 million dollars. “Need For Speed” was successful in making a total of $120 million dollars, and indeed, it was a much needed profit due to DreamWorks’ failure to make profit with its past films.

need-for-speed-trailer-starring-aaron-paul-looks-like-the-sixth-season-of-breaking-bad

Aaron Paul pictured, Courtesy of Business Insider [g]

There are several reasons for the success of “Need For Speed.” First, it was originally a very popular game that debuted back in 1994, which could have drawn the video gamer audience. Also, the film starred Aaron Paul, who plays Jesse Pinkman on Breaking Bad. Breaking Bad won 10 Primetime Emmy Awards and two Golden Globe Awards, and the show’s buzz has turned Jesse Pinkman into a household name. For these reasons, this enabled the film to draw in a wider audience.

Need for Speed debuted in 1994, and over the course of the next two decades, the game would evolve under several studios such as Black Box and Criterion Games. The series has been a critical and commercial hit with gamers. [3] [4] [5] [6]

Right Here, Right Now

After researching and looking at the patterns, the DreamWorks Studio has dramatically decreased the amount of movie being released since the year 2012. In fact, in 2012 and 2013, only two movies were released each year, and following its pattern, DreamWorks is planning on releasing only two movies in 2014 as well. [7]

The Prey Poster,
Courtesy of IMDb [h]

On January 15th, 2014, after attaining the rights from Brio Films, Studio Canal and Cohen Media Group, DreamWorks Studios plans to remake a French film called “La Proie” from 2011; the remake will be called “The Prey” Originally directed by Eric Valette, La Proie has an attention grabbing plot which centers around a crook who needs to escape out of jail to save his family from his former cellmate and confidante who is a serial killer. With its remake, the film has an advantage of potentially attracting French people who has already seen the movie and want to watch an American remake version. In addition, the international gross profit could even exceed the domestic’s. [8]

 

marc-platt-dreamworks

Pictured Producer Marc Platt (“The Girl on the Train”)
Courtesy of Variety [i]

On March 24, 2014, DreamWorks Studios obtained the rights from Paula Hawkins, the author of “The Girl on the Train” for Marc Platt to produce as a R-rated movie. The novel centers around a young woman who gets involved in a murder investigation as a witness. From this news, DreamWorks Studios is on a path of producing mainly thrillers in its upcoming years. [9]

“Eleanor & Park” Courtesy of p.gr-assets.com [j]

On April 2, 2014, DreamWorks Studios attained the rights from Rainbow Rowell to make her novel, “Eleanor & Park,” into a movie. The movie takes a place in year 1986 in high school in Omaha with two 16 year olds: Eleanor, an insecure girl, and Park, a half-Korean boy who attempt to find themselves. [10]

“Made In Sweden” Courtesy of cdn-s3.thewrap.com [k]

On April 7, 2014,  DreamWorks Studios announced that Mark Sourian will produce a crime thriller from the Swedish novel called “Made in Sweden” by Anders Roslund and Stefan Thunberg. Along with the authors, Niclas Salomonsson will executive produce.The novel is about a bank robbery from Sweden’s history and a story about a band of brothers who were involved in it. The audience should be prepared for the upcoming works of DreamWorks Studios that are filled heavily with small budgeted chilling thriller movies. [11] 

Coming Up

bollywood-manish-dayal

Manish Dayal Pictured, Courtesy of http://i1.cdnds.net/ [l]

DreamWorks will be releasing a new film on August 8th, 2014 called “The Hundred-Foot Journey.” Due to the fact that this movie is still in the early development stages, a trailer is not available yet. “The Hundred-Foot Journey” centers around an Indian family who moves to France, and then opens up a restaurant across the street from a Michelin-starred French restaurant. Hassan Kadam, who is played by Manish Dayal, is a phenomenal culinary cook and after being displaced from their native India, the Kadam family moves to a village of Saint-Antonin-Noble-Val located in the south of France. After opening up an Indian restaurant called the ‘Maison Mumbai,’ Madame Mallory, who is played by Helen Mirren, decides to protest against the new Indian restaurant. The rivalry between the restaurants come to an end as Madame Mallory admits and recognizes Hassan’s gift as a chef and takes him under her wing.

MV5BNzI1Mjg5MjAyNF5BMl5BanBnXkFtZTgwNjc2NDA0MDE@._V1_SY317_CR131,0,214,317_AL_

Oprah (Left)
Helen Mirren (Right)
Courtesy of IMDb [m]

DreamWorks is focused on improving profits due to its loss from the past few years. The budget for their upcoming movie “The Hundred-Foot Journey” is approximately $25 million dollars. Of course, this budget is by no means small; however, as compared to DreamWorks’ film previous budgets in the past, it is evident to acknowledge that DreamWorks is cutting budgets and focusing more on making a profit. Also, what is interesting about “The Hundred-Foot Journey” is that Oprah Winfrey is one of the producers. It is quite safe to conclude that having Oprah as a producer is one of the strategies that DreamWorks plans on employing in hopes of attracting wider audiences. Indeed, the “Oprah Effect.” In hopes of making a profit with DreamWorks’ new small budget strategy, this is a clever and strategic approach because Oprah can “suddenly turn a small, unprofitable business into a multimillion-dollar company.” In this case, hopefully these types of results are seen with this movie. [12] [13]

Sources:

[1] DreamWorks Studios – History, dreamworksstudios.com, RT: 4/16/14

[2] DreamWorks Studios – FAQ, dreamworksstudios.com, RT: 4/16/14

[3] 3 Reasons ‘Need for Speed’ Could Be the Next ‘Fast & Furious’, fool.com, Leo Sun, 2/17/14, RT: 4/16/14

[4] Aaron Paul Facts: 17 Things You (Probably) Don’t Know About the ‘Need for Speed’ Star, news.moviefone.com, Jonny Black, 3/14/14, RT: 4/16/14

[5] EA and DreamWorks Lift the Curtain on Need for Speed the Movie, investor.ea.com, 6/10/14, RT: 4/16/14

[6] Box Office Mojo – Need For Speed, boxofficemojo.com, RT: 4/16/14

[7] Movie Insider – DreamWorks Studios, movieinsider.com, RT: 4/16/14

[8] DreamWorks To Remake French Thriller ‘The Prey’, dreamworksstudios.com, Mike Fleming Jr., 1/15/14, RT: 4/16/14

[9] DreamWorks Acquires Novel ‘The Girl on the Train’ for Marc Platt, dreamworksstudios.com, Justin Kroll, 3/24/14, RT: 4/16/14

[10] ‘Eleanor & Park’: DreamWorks picks up film rights to Rainbow Rowell novel, dreamworksstudios.com, Anthony Breznican, 4/2/14, RT: 4/16/14

[11] DreamWorks Studios Options Crime Thriller Book “Made in Sweden”, dreamworksstudios.com, 4/7/14, RT: 4/16/14

[12] DreamWorks Studios – The Hundred-Foot Journey, dreamworksstudios.com, RT: 4/16/14

[13] Investopedia – Oprah Effect, investopedia.com, RT: 4/16/14

Multimedia Sources

[a] DreamWorks Studios Logo, wholemovieinfo.com, RT: 4/16/14

[b] Steven Spielberg Photo & Info, dreamworksstudios.com, RT: 4/16/14

[c] Stacey Snider Photo & Info, dreamworksstudios.com, RT: 4/16/14

[d] Jeff Small Photo & Info, dreamworksstudios.com, RT: 4/16/14

[e] Holly Bario Photo & Info, dreamworksstudios.com, RT: 4/16/14

[f] Need For Speed Poster – IMDb, IMDb.com, RT: 4/16/14

[g] Photo of Aaron Paul, static4.businessinsider.com, RT: 4/16/14

[h] The Prey Poster -IMDb, IMDb.com, RT: 4/16/14

[i] Photo of Marc Platt, variety.com, RT: 4/16/14

[j] Photo of Eleanor and Park, p.gr-assets.com, RT: 4/16/14

[k] Photo of ‘Made in Sweden’, cdn-s3.thewrap.com, RT: 4/16/14

[l] Photo of Manish Dayal, cdnds.net, RT: 4/16/14

[m] Photo of Oprah and Helen, IMDb.com, RT: 4/16/14

CBS Films

Posted on by 
By Jessica Breslow
Logo

Courtesy of CBS Films [a]

CBS Films
11800 Wilshire Blvd
Los Angeles, CA 90025
Phone: (310) 575-7000
www.cbsfilms.com

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Brief History

CBS Films, operating as a subsidiary of CBS Corporations, was founded only 7 years ago in 2007. Despite being new on the block in a tough industry, CBS Films has successfully made noise in several markets with releases like, “Las Vegas,” “The Woman in Black,” and “The Back Up Plan.” They plan to continue making noise by releasing approximately 4-6 films a year by self-distributing in the US while their partners oversee global distribution. CBS Film’s commitment to managing the development, financing, production, and marketing of low budget, experimental, and quality motion pictures of various genres is what makes them unique as a middle ground in the industry. [1] [2] [3]

Key Executives

Wolfgang Hammer (Co-President) [b]

Terry Press (Co-President) [c]

steven

Steven Friedlander
(Executive Vice President, Theatrical Distribution) [d]

CBS EXECUTIVE

Reid Sullivan
(Chief Financial Officer) [e]

RIK TOULON

Rik Toulon
(Executive Vice President & General Counsel) [f]

maria

Maria Faillace
(Executive Vice President, Production) [g]

For more information about the Key Executives, click here [1].

Financials

CBS Films is not a publicly traded company; therefore, there is no financial information available. However, according to Box Office Mojo, one can understand that CBS Films has the potential to be competitive among the major film companies in the future if it continues its current pattern.

CBS Films – Rankings
Courtesy of Box Office Mojo [h]

The studio got off to a rough start with its first project, “Extraordinary Measures.” The film had a production budget of $31 million dollars, and unfortunately led the company to a major loss since the film’s worldwide total gross was only $15,134,293. Fortunately, the studio’s second film “The Back Up Plan,” was a huge success, and produced a worldwide total gross of $77,477,007. With a $35 million dollar production budget, “The Back Up Plan,” was not only able to recoup the film’s production budget, but also was able to recoup “Extraordinary Measures” major loss all while still making the company roughly $26 million in profit.

“Las Vegas” Total Lifetime Grosses
Courtesy of Box Office Mojo [i]

To date, every film that CBS Films has distributed has made some profit besides “Extraordinary Measures.”  In fact, the company’s most successful film to date       “Las Vegas” proves that CBS Films is moving forward.  “Las Vegas” had a production budget of $28 million dollars, and earned a worldwide total gross of $134,402,450 (see photo right). These observations allow one to assume that the company is comfortable financially. [4] [5] [6]

News

Clif Prowse (R), Derek Lee (L)
Courtesy of www.images.moviepilot-cdn.com [j]

CBS Film’s “Afflicted,” which was released on April 4, 2014, is currently playing in limited theaters and is available on demand at iTunes, Amazon, VUDU, Google Play, Time Warner, and XBOX in addition to other Video On Demand services. As of April 11, 2014, “Afflicted” is being shown in 34 theaters, which is down ten theaters from its original release date. According to Box Office Mojo, as of April 13, 2014, the film has earned a domestic total of $121,179. The Canadian Film Lottery and the hundred thousand dollars Co-Directors Derek Lee and Cliff Prowse devoted their time to raising funded “Afflicted.” To save on production costs further, the Co-Directors starred as themselves in the movie out of necessity, and they complied their friends, families, and relatives to be the actors as a pay-free route to ensure their budget was kept low.

Derek Lee (L), Clif Prowse (R)
Courtesy of www.laimyours.com [k]

Remarkably, Derek and Cliff have been friends since they were 15 and pimpled-faced. They started this found-footage horror film project in 2011 after working on 4 shorts together. The idea for the film was the result of what they thought would best display their skillsets. Originally, they envisioned creating an action film; however, they lacked the funding to do so with quality. As a plan B, the duo created what evolved into the vampire point of view documentary in theaters today. With only four filmmakers and a small crew of ten, scenes were shot guerilla style in Paris, Italy, and Spain using a Cannon 5D Mark II and a Go Pro. The Director of Photography was equipped with only a single lighting pack due to budget; therefore, natural lighting was forcibly essential. Budget, however, did allow for Visual Effects Company Imagine Engine to be brought on as a producer to ensure the scenes requiring special effects were brought to life. These scenes demanded an abundance of patience and luck to achieve a realistic effect since the scenes lacked certain resources that typically would have been needed.

Derek Lee as Derek Lee
Courtesy of www.images.moviepilot-cdn.com [l]

After years of hard work and obstacles, “Afflicted” was screened to distributors. A low seven figures and additional money for improving production later, CBS Films attained a deal with the duo to polish and complete the film. With CBS Film’s support, the film became commercial and competitive after a month of reshooting. “Afflicted” started to gain real momentum after being well received at the Toronto International Film Festival and Austin’s Fantastic Fest. In Toronto, “Afflicted” was awarded “Best Canadian First Feature Film,” and in Austin, the movie was awarded “Best Picture (Horror),” “Best Screenplay (Horror)”, and “Best Director (Horror).” In addition, according to IndieWire, “Afflicted” is on the Top 10 indies to watch On Demand for April. [7] [8] [9] [10] [11]

Derek Lee as Derek Lee
Courtesy of CBS Films [m]

Brief Synopsis: Derek and Cliff, two best friends, set out to travel the world for a year, but to their surprise the trip goes terribly wrong after Derek spends a night with a beautiful woman. After Derek’s encounter with this woman, his body goes though inhuman and uncontrollable changes. Cliff was originally documenting the entire trip for his travel blog, but the footage ends up capturing how the trip takes a dark turn instead. [12]

Watch Afflicted Trailer [n] (YouTube)

CBS Films is keeping an eye on the films that receive major buzz from festivals; there is talk that CBS Films might have plans to continue pursuing deals like this in the future if it “Afflicted” proves to be a beneficial investment. The power of this buzz serves as free advertising and generates a strong word of mouth presence that is typically not the easiest achieve. [8]

Coming Soon

“The F Word” recently retitled “What If” will hit US theaters in August 2014. In September, “What If” made its debut at the Toronto International Film Festival. Two and a half million dollars later, CBS Films attained the US rights for this project.  “What If” will be released on August 1st in NY and LA theaters, and will be accompanied by Disney’s “Guardians Of The Galaxy” and James Brown’s “Get Up On It.” CBS Films plans to expand markets for “What If” following the first weekend. [13]

Zoe Kazan (L), Daniel Radcliffe (R)
Courtesy of CBS Films [o]

Director:
Michael Dowse

Writer:
Elan Mastai

Stars:
Daniel Radcliffe
Zoe Kazan
Adam Driver
Mackenzie Davis
Megan Park
Oona Chaplin

Producers:
David Gross
Jesse Shapira
Jeff Arkuss
Macdara Kelleher
Andre Rouleau

[14]

Sources:

[1] CBS Films – About, cbsfilms.com, RT: 4/13/14

[2] Company Overview – Bloomberg Businessweek, investing.businessweek.com, RT: 4/13/14

[3] LA Times – Prime time for CBS movie bet?, articles.latimes.com, Claudia Eller & Amy Kaufman,1/11/10, RT: 4/13/14

[4] Box Office Mojo – “Extraordinary Measures”, boxofficemojo.com, RT: 4/13/14

[5] Box Office Mojo – “The Back Up Plan”, boxofficemojo.com, RT: 4/13/14

[6] Box Office Mojo – “Las Vegas”, boxofficemojo.com, RT: 4/13/14

[7] The Horror: Afflicted LA Premiere At Hollywood Horrorfest, laimyours.com, Jonatha Bilski, 3/31/14, RT: 4/13/14

[8] Fantastic Fest: CBS Films May Have a Sleeper Hit in Low-Budget Horror Movie ‘Afflicted’, thewrap.com, Jeff Sneider, 9/20/13, RT: 4/13/14

[9] The Hollywood Reporter – Afflicted: Film Review, hollywoodreporter.com, Frank Scheck, 4/3/2014, RT: 4/13/14

[10] The 10 Indies to Watch on VOD This April: ‘Joe,’ ‘Blue Ruin,’ ‘Filth’ and More, indiewire.com, 4/2/14, RT: 4/13/14

[11] IMDb Page for Film “Afflicted”, IMDb.com, RT: 4/13/14

[12] CBS Films – Afflicted, cbsfilms.com, RT: 4/13/14

[13] Daniel Radcliffe’s ‘The F Word’ Re-titled ‘What If,’ Set for Aug. 1 Release, variety.com, Dave McNary, 3/14/14, RT: 4/13/14

[14] CBS Films – What If, cbsfims.com, RT: 4/13/14

Multimedia Sources:

[a] CBS Film’s Logo, cbsfilms.com, RT: 4/13/14

[b] Photo of Wolfgang Hammer, 5dinstitute.org, RT: 4/13/14

[c] Photo of Terry Press, hollywoodreporter.com, RT: 4/13/14

[d] Photo of Steven Friedlander, pokerpages.com, RT: 4/13/14

[e] Photo of Reid Sullivan, cbsexpress.com, RT: 4/13/14

[f] Photo of Rik Toulon, cbsexpress.com, RT: 4/13/14

[g] Photo of Maria Faillace, hollywoodreporter.com, RT: 4/13/14

[h] CBS Films – Rankings, boxofficemojo.com, RT: 4/13/14

[i] “Las Vegas” Total Lifetime Grosses, boxofficemojo.com, RT: 4/13/14

[j] Photo 1 of Co-Directors, images.moviepilot-cdn.com, RT: 4/13/14

[k] Photo 2 of Co-Directors, laimyours.com, RT: 4/13/14

[l] Photo 1 of Derek Lee, images.moviepilot-cdn.com, RT: 4/13/14

[m] Photo 2 of Derek Lee, cbsfilms.com, RT: 4/13/14

[n] Afflicted Trailer, youtube.com, RT: 4/13/14

[o] Photo of Zoe and Daniel, cbsfilms.com, RT: 4/13/14

20th Century Fox

Posted on by 
By Jackie He
Photo courtesy of interpretllc.com

Photo courtesy of interpretllc.com

Twentieth Century Fox Film Corp.

10201 West Pico Boulevard,

Los Angeles, California 90035

Website: http://www.foxmovies.com/

 

History

Twentieth Century Fox Film Corporation, commonly known as 20th Century Fox is one of the six major American film studios. The company was founded on May 31, 1935, as the result of the merger of Fox Film Corporation, and Twentieth Century Pictures. The studio used to be a subsidiary of News Corporation, but now it is currently a subsidiary of 21st Century Fox. The studio is widely involved in film business but mainly focusing on film production and distribution. It has released numerous successful blockbusters including Star War series and Titanic. [1][2][9]

Recent Finance

In the first quarter of 2014 which covers months of January, February and March, Twentieth Century Fox Film Corporation released 8 films including Mr. Peabody & Sherman, Son of God, The Secret Life of Walter Mitty, and etc, bringing in a gross income of $210.6 million. This is an 18% decrease comparing to the gross income the company earned in the first quarter of 2013. [3]

Rupert Murdoch

Photo courtesy of battellemedia.com

Photo courtesy of battellemedia.com

Mr. Keith Rupert Murdoch is the founder of News Corporation. Since June 28, 2013,  Murdoch has been Executive Chairman and Chief Executive Officer of Twenty-First Century Fox, Inc., the former News Corporation and the parent company of Twentieth Century Fox Film Corporation. He serves as the Chief Executive Officer and Chairman of the Board of Twentieth Century Fox Film Corporation. [4]

Recent News

“86th Oscar Best picture: 12 Years A Slave.”

12 Years A Slave Official Trailer

12 Years A Slave Winning Best Picture

Photo courtesy of euroasianews.com

Photo courtesy of euroasianews.com

12 Years A Slave, a film released by Twentieth Century Fox Film Corporation in october 2013, not only won Best Supporting Actress and Best Adapted Screenplay in 86th Academy Awards, but also become the first film made by a black director or producer to receive the Academy’s highest honor —Best Picture. The film tells a story about a New York State-born free African American man who was abducted in Washington, D.C. in 1841. He was sold into slavery and worked on plantations in the state of Louisiana for twelve years before released. [5][19]

Photo courtesy of en.wikipedia.org

 

 This award winning film was also prominent in box office. With the production budget of $18 million, it earned $56,390,478 in domestic box office and remarkable $121,745,968 in foreign box office since its international release dates were largely delayed to early 2014 in order to take advantage of the attention created by awards seasons. [6]

Son of God
Son of God Official Trailer
On February 28, 2014, Twentieth Century Fox films released its new film Son of God, starring Diogo Morgado, Roma Downey and Darwin Shaw. Instead of focusing on Jesus’ arrest, torture and death, “Son of God” takes us through Jesus’ life from its humble beginnings in the barn, to the gathering of his followers, his march to Jerusalem, and all of the miracles he performed along the way. [7]
Photo courtesy of yeshacallahan.com

Photo courtesy of yeshacallahan.com

On a budget of $22 million, the film brought in $26.5 million in box office revenue in domestic theaters at the end of the first week and has earned $58,058,843 total gross till today, more than twice of its budget. Although the film is successful in the box office, it receipted many negative critiques about its quality. On Rotten Tomatoes for instance, it currently holds a 22% rating based on 59 reviews with the consensus: “The faithful may find their spirits raised, but on purely cinematic terms, Son of God is too dull and heavy-handed to spark much fervor.” [8][10]
Mr. Peabody & Sherman
Mr. Peabody & Sherman Official Trailer
Approximately one year after the release of “The Croods”, 20th Century Fox Film teamed up with DreamWorks Animation for the second time in the production and distribution of the animation movie, Mr. Peabody & Sherman. The film premiered on February 7, 2014 in the United Kingdom,and was released on March 7, 2014 in the United States. [11]
Photo courtesy of en.wikipedia.org

Photo courtesy of en.wikipedia.org

With the budget of $145 million, the film earned $8 million on its opening day in North America theaters. And by of April 15, 2014, Mr. Peabody & Sherman has grossed $105,465,969. in North America, and 143,100,000 in other countries, for a worldwide total of $248,565,969. [12]
The film was obviously welcomed by the public. On Rotten Tomatoes, it received a score of 79% based on reviews from 100 critics, with an average rating of 6.7/10, giving it “Certified Fresh” status. Most viewers reached a consensus stating that “Mr. Peabody & Sherman offers a surprisingly entertaining burst of colorful all-ages fun, despite of its dated source material and rather convoluted plot.” [13]
Rio 2
Rio 2 Official Trailer
Rio 2, the sequel of the 2011 computer-animated film Rio produced by 20th Century Fox Film Corporation’s animation subsidiary Blue Sky Studio, was released internationally on March 20, 2014, and domestically on April 11, 2014. The story leads us to the rain forest of Amazon where our bird protagonists Blu, Jewel and their three kids started a new adventure. As Blu tries to fit in, he goes beak-to-beak with the vengeful Nigel, and meets the most fearsome adversary – his father-in-law. [14][15]
Photo courtesy of en.wikipedia.org

Photo courtesy of en.wikipedia.org

All the favorable stars presenting their voice in Rio including Jesse Eisenberg, Anne Hathaway and Jamie Foxx came back to the sequel, and are joined by Oscar nominee Andy Garcia, Grammy winner Bruno Mars, Tony winner Kristin Chenoweth and Oscar/Emmy/Tony winner Rita Moreno which makes the movie a great hit. On its opening day, the film earned $12 million in North American theaters, and in its first weekend, it opened to number two behind Captain America: The Winter Soldier, with the gross revenue of $39,327,869. Till April 18, the film has already earned $186,363,000 worldwide. [15][16]
Photo courtsey of dualshockers.com

Photo courtsey of dualshockers.com

To promote the film, three of four Angry Birds Rio episodes — all visually tied to Rio 2 have been released by Rovio Entertainment before the premiere of the film, widely attracting smart phone users and game players to buy the movie ticket. [14]
What’s up next 
20th Century Fox plans to release the next sequel of X-Man – “X-Man: Days of Future Past” In the film, the ultimate X-Men ensemble fights a war for the survival of the species across two time periods. All our favorite characters from the original “X-Men” film trilogy join forces with their younger selves and started an epic battle that must change the past to save our future. [17]

Photo Courtesy of en.wikipedia.org

Photo Courtesy of en.wikipedia.org

As usual, the new sequel of X-man has a strong cast including Hugh Jackman, James McAvoy, Michael Fassbender, Jennifer Lawrence, Halle Berry, etc. To attract the lucrative Chinese Market, the film also includes Fan Bingbing in the cast, one of the most popular Chinese actresses.  The film will be released on May 23, 2014. [18]
Photo Courtesy of www.jaynestars.com

Photo Courtesy of www.jaynestars.com

X-Men: Days of Future Past Official Trailer

Sources:

[1] http://www.thestudiotour.com/fox/chronology.shtml  [Ret: 15 Apr. 2013]

[2] http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/20th_Century_Fox [Ret: 15 Apr. 2013]

[3] http://boxofficemojo.com/studio/chart/?view=company&view2=ytd&compare=Q1&studio=fox.htm [Ret: 15 Apr. 2013]

[4] http://investing.businessweek.com/research/stocks/private/people.asp?privcapId=35867 [Ret: 15 Apr. 2013]

[5] http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/12_Years_a_Slave_(film)#Release [Ret: 15 Apr. 2013]

[6] http://boxofficemojo.com/movies/?id=twelveyearsaslave.htm [Ret: 15 Apr. 2013]

[7] http://www.rogerebert.com/reviews/son-of-god-2014 [Ret: 15 Apr. 2013]

[8] http://boxofficemojo.com/movies/?id=sonofgod.htm [Ret: 15 Apr. 2013]

[9]http://www.21cf.com/Business_Segments/Filmed_Entertainment_Businesses/Twentieth_Century_Fox/ [Ret: 15 Apr. 2013]

[10] http://www.rottentomatoes.com/m/son_of_god_2014/ [Ret: 16 Apr. 2013]

[11] http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Mr._Peabody_%26_Sherman [Ret: 16 Apr. 2013]

[12] http://boxofficemojo.com/movies/?id=mrpeabodyandsherman.htm [Ret: 16 Apr. 2013]

[13] http://www.rottentomatoes.com/m/mr_peabody_and_sherman/ [Ret: 16 Apr. 2013]

[14] http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Rio_2 [Ret: 19 Apr. 2013]

[15] http://www.rottentomatoes.com/m/rio_2/ [Ret: 19 Apr. 2013]

[16] http://boxofficemojo.com/search/?q=rio%202 [Ret: 19 Apr. 2013]

[17] http://www.x-menmovies.com/ [Ret: 19 Apr. 2013]

[18] http://comicsalliance.com/x-men-days-of-future-past-movie-empire-25-covers/ [Ret: 19 Apr. 2013]

[19] http://www.imdb.com/title/tt2024544/?ref_=nv_sr_1[Ret: 19 Apr. 2013]


 

 

 

NewsCorp/21st Century – Fox

Posted on by 
By Deanna Saltzman

Corporate Background History:

On May 24, 2013, the board of directors of NewsCorp (former parent company of the mega media company originally known as 20th Century Fox), announced a split between its troubled publishing divisions and its entertainment media divisions. The schism was approved by shareholders in June, and the divisions were redubbed News Corporation and 21st Century Fox, respectively. 21st Century Fox remained in the control of Rupert Murdoch (original NewsCorp founder), who now holds the titles of Chairman and Chief Executive. [1]

Company Holdings:

21st Century Fox television is comprised of an array of cable and broadcast programming.  Cable networks include YES network, Fox New Channel, Fox Business Network, National Geographic, Fox Sports 1 & 2, and FX Networks. Broadcast holdings include Fox Broadcasting Network, Fox Sports, MyNetworkTV, as well as owned and operated stations within Fox Television Stations Group. [2]

With shows such as “American Idol”, “New Girl”, and “The Simpsons”, Fox Broadcasting Network “dominates” the adult 18-24 demographic. The “top-rated” Fox Sports broadcasts exclusive NFL, MLB, UFC, and NASCAR packages. Fox Sports Network is the leading provider of local sports, with 22 owned-an-operated networks for regional distribution of MLB, NHL, and collegiate sports.

On cable news, Fox News Channel reigns as the most-watched news channel for 11 years. In quality cable television, FX Networks features many hit series including “Sons of Anarchy”, “Louie”, and “American Horror Story”.

Key Executives:

Rupert Murdoch.

Rupert Murdoch. Source: http://www.nndb.com

Rupert Murdoch is Chairman and CEO of both 21st Century Fox and its former parent company, NewsCorp. He has overseen the corporation’s development as an international entertainment company.

Chase Carey serves as President and COO.

James Murdoch is Co-Chief Operating Officer, supervising global television assets.

John Nallen is the Senior Executive Vice President and Chief Financial Officer.

David Hill serves as Senior Executive Vice President, specializing in programming and digital developments.

Gary Newman and Dana Walden both serve as Chairmen of the Twentieth Century Fox Television division, which produces highly-rated TV content.

Peter Rice serves as Chairman & CEO of the Fox Networks Group division, supervising Fox Broadcasting Company,FX Networks, and Fox Sports Media Group (O&O’s).

More on Key Executives. [3]

 

Financials:

The most recent earnings release from the second quarter, reported on February 6, 2014, shows an $8.16 billion in revenue for Q2, which is a 15% increase from the prior year quarter. The increase reflects growth in Fox’s DBS international holdings as well as growth in Cable Network Programming and affiliate revenue growth. Broadcast Television reported a 6% increase in revenue from the previous year as a result of growing retransmission earnings. However, operating income has declined due to investments in developing networks such as FXX. [4]

This Google Finance [5] graph shows a slight decrease of $1.69 (-7.06% change) in stock price from the previous year, but a general trend of stability for the January-April period.

google finance

21st Century Fox Stock Price 2013-2014. Source: Google Finance

 

 

 

21st Century Fox Television In The News:

"Fargo"

“Fargo”. FX. Source: Heavy.com Entertainment

FX recently launched a new mini-series, “Fargo”, based on the Coen brothers’ classic 1996 film. Noah Harley (“My Generation”, “Bones”) is series creator, and his pilot script won over series producers Joel and Ethan Coen. The series follows Lester Nygaard (Martin Freeman)–our familiar, bumbling, and insecure insurance agent character–and his catalytic bad influence, Lorne Malvo (Billy Bob Thornton), who plays the devil-on-the-shoulder-role by advising Lester to stand up for himself. When that advice gets taken a bit too literally, our moralistic yet ineffectual friends at the Bemidji, Minnesota Police Department get on the case. [6]

The premier was a success with the help of three showings, raking in 4.15 million viewers, 1 million of those in the key 18-49 demo. FX is also optimistic about time-shifting growth from DVR use for boosting their key demo ratings. [7]

Jack is back.

Jack is back on “24: Live Another Day” on Fox.

Fox broadcasting will also premier a 12-episode reprisal of the hit series “24”, now reincarnated as “24: Live Another Day”. The multi-Emmy-award-winning team of the legendary series returns with Executive Producer Howard Gordon, lead actor and Executive Producer Kiefer Sutherland,  and co-creator Robert Cochran. This time, Jack Bauer works as an “exile from justice” attempting to thwart world-threatening terrorist activities. The series is set to premiere on Fox at 9:00PM on May 5th. [8]

Watch: “24: Live Another Day” Fox Trailer

When “24” last aired in 2010, the audience had declined from a peak of 13 million down to 9 million. With a heavy promo campaign of on-air and online teaser trailers, Fox hopes to reignite its primetime hit to former glory with dedicated audiences. [9]

 

The Americans

“The Americans”. Source: Hollywood Reporter, courtesy of FX.

FX is also renewing “The Americans” for a 3rd season. Although it’s ratings have not been up to the same standard as other FX originals such as “American Horror Story”, there is still hope for the critically acclaimed spy thriller by means of DVR time-shifting–which has been shown to boost the show’s key demo viewership by 81% in the past. [10] 

Gang Related

Source: SeriesNews.Biz

Fox has been revamping its summer broadcast schedule with new series such as “I Wanna Marry Harry” (a reality Bachelorette-esque show competing for British Royalty’s heart), Steve Carell’s “Riot” (celebrity game show), a trifecta from Gordon Ramsay (“Kitchen Nightmares”, “Master Chef”, “Hotel Hell”), and the new scripted drama “Gang Related” and original sitcom “Surviving Jack”. The scripted newbies hope to get a programming tipoff following “American Idol’s” primetime spot. Likewise, “Riot” will follow the series finale of “Glee”. Full schedule here. [11] [12]

 

"The Cosmos"

Neil deGrasse Tyson, host of “The Cosmos”. Source: Variety.

Fox also premiered “The Cosmos” this March on its Fox broadcasting channel as well as 9 other cable networks:  National Geographic Channel, FX, FXX, FXM, FOX Sports 1, FOX Sports 2, Nat Geo Wild, Nat Geo Mundo and FOX Life. The series premiered with a sizable audience of 8.5 million, evan against steep competition from AMC’s “The Walking Dead” in  its primetime 9:00PM Sunday slot. The bulk of these viewers were from broadcast, with the demo under age 50 being comprised of 60% men. [13]

 

Murdoch family

Rupert Murdoch and sons, James and Lachlan. Source: Variety.

In corporate news, Rupert Murdoch’s sons, James and Lachlan Murdoch, have each been promoted to new key roles. James is now serving as co-COO in cooperation with COO Chase Carey. He supervises global assets and oversees Fox Networks Group. (Accordingly, Peter Rice will now report to James Murdoch as opposed to Chase Carey). Lachlan serves as non-exec co-chairman of 21st Century Fox, developing “overall corporate strategy”. All promotional news released to press as of 3/26/2014. [14]

YES Network

YES Network Logo. Source: www.web.yesnetwork.com

In Fox sports news, 21CF increased its stake in YES network from 49% to 80% in the interest of expanding its global/regional sports portfolio. This makes YES Network an official “consolidated entity” of 21CF, although Yankee Global Enterprises will retain the other 20% and Tracy Dolgin will keep his CEO role. [15]

American Idol Ratings Slump

American Idol Ratings Slump. Source: Variety.

Unfortunately, Fox’s ratings for “American Idol” have been dropping off, finishing fourth for 6 consecutive weeks among competing broadcasting networks.  Reportedly, the ratings decrease has also been hurting ad sales. Nielsen’s ratings show a 30% decline from last year, although Fox hopes future programming such as the “24” premiere will help. [16] [17]

Looking Ahead:

With a strong revamp in broadcast and cable for this coming season, 21CF may likely be able to cover losses from falling ad sales and investments in developing networks.

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Sources:

[1] News Corp shareholders vote to split company into two. BBC News. Accessed 4/9/2014.

[2] 21st Century Fox Business Units. 21st Century Fox. Accessed 4/9/2014.

[3] 21st Century Fox Management. 21st Century Fox. Accessed 4/9/2014.

[4] 21st Century Fox Past Earnings Releases. 21st Century Fox. Accessed 4/9/2014.

[5] 21st Century Fox Google Finance Chart. Google Finance. Accessed 4/17/2014.

[6] Fargo TV Review. Hollywood Reporter. Accessed 4/17/2014.

[7] TV Ratings for FX’s “Fargo” Delivers. Hollywood Reporter. Accessed 4/17/2014.

[8] 24: Live Another Day. Fox. Accessed 4/9/2014.

[9] Fox Cancels “24” TV Show, Move Version is Next. Reuters. Accessed 4/9/2014.

[10] “Americans” Renewed Third Season at FX. Hollywood Reporter. Accessed 4/17/2014.

[11] Fox Counts Down Premiere Dates for 24: Live Another Day, Gang Related, and Surviving Jack. TV.com. Accessed 4/17/2014.

[12] Fox Sets Launch for Faux Prince Harry Dating Series, Shifts ‘Gang Related’. Hollywood Reporter. Accessed 4/17/2014.

[13] ‘Cosmos’ Premiere Draws 8.5 Million Viewers on Fox Networks. Variety. Accessed 4/9/2014.

[14] Murdoch Shuffle: Lachlan Returns to Fox, News Corp.; James Upped to Co-COO. Variety. Accessed 4/9/2014.

[15] Fox To Acquire Majority Stake In Yankees’ YES Network. Variety. Accessed 4/9/2014.

[16] Does ‘American Idol’ Ebb Mean Music’s Over for Fox? Variety. Accessed 4/9/2014.

[17] American Idol to ‘wind down’, 21st Century Fox chief reveals. The Guardian. Accessed 4/9/2014.