Paramount Pictures- Julia Dorin

Posted on February 18, 2016 by smwarren

Paramount Pictures

5555 Melrose Avenue, Los Angeles, CA. 90038

www.paramount.com

HOW IT ALL STARTED

Paramount Pictures, founded in 1912 by Adolph Zukor, is the fifth oldest film studio on Earth. Along with Zukor, Paramount’s founding fathers include Jesse L. Lasky ad Cecil B. DeMille, whose innovation and determination have created an empire. Since its conception in 1912, Paramount has become one of the foremost production and distribution companies in the entertainment industry [1]. Owned by media conglomerate Viacom, Paramount maintains a solid reputation and has branched into various divisions including Paramount Animation, MTV Films, Comedy Central Films, Nickelodeon Movies and many others. Paramount has had multiple successful releases in 2016 so far and anxiously awaits the release of various new projects.

THE TEAM

Led by Chairman and Chief Executive Brad Grey, Paramount Pictures develops and produces iconic pictures such as “The Big Short”, ”The Wolf of Wall Street”, “Star Trek”, and many more. Grey took over the company in 2005, leading it to great success by finishing first in the global market in 2011, and maintaining high morale and a good reputation throughout his tenure. However as of late, Grey has faced financial trouble as the leader of Paramount, showing a substantial decrease in operating profit from last fiscal year’s $205 million to this fiscal year’s $111 million [2]. Another revered executive, Rob Moore, serves as the Vice Chairman for Paramount Pictures. Moore works to oversee the company’s Worldwide Marketing and distribution of films and television programs. Other executives include Frederick Huntsberry, Marc Evans, and Amy Powell, all who contribute to Paramount’s long-lasting success [3].

Brad Grey- CEO of Paramount Pictures [12]

FINANCES

So far this year, Paramount Pictures has acquired a total film gross of $311,567,245 from a variety of films. “Daddy’s Home” grossed a total of $150,357,137 since its release in December of 2015. “The Big Short”, also released in December of 2015 grossed $70,259,870 as well as receiving the Academy Award for Best Writing, Adapted Screenplay. The film was also nominated for another four Oscars and four Golden Globe awards as well. Paramount also released “Anomalisa”, which was nominated for Best Animated Feature Film in the 2016 Academy Awards. Other releases such as “Zoolander 2” and “Whiskey Tango Foxtrot” have contributed to Paramount’s total film gross thus far [4]. Paramount is known for some of the most grandiose pictures ever produced, such as James Cameron’s 1996 Blockbuster “Titanic”, which was awarded the Oscar for Best Picture during the year of its release. Other top notch production includes “Interstellar”, starring Matthew McConaughey, which won an Academy Award for Best Achievement in Visual Effects during the 2015 Oscars.

[9]

[10]

THE FUTURE

Looking ahead, Viacom is searching for a minority investor in Paramount in order to expand its content through the help of another company. Philippe Dauman, Viacom’s Chief Executive, believes a new investor would aid in Paramount’s recently dropping stock price and decreased ratings, which is depicted by the 2015 market share of 5.9%. Ideally, Paramount is looking for a Chinese investor to expand the company’s horizons and broaden its foreign influence. With the strict censorship implemented by China’s government, a Chinese partner would be extremely helpful for Paramount’s future success due to China’s massive population being about twenty percent of the total world population. Other interested parties include high profile companies such as Amazon, Apple, and Lionsgate Entertainment who have expressed the desire to get involved with Viacom’s Paramount Pictures. However, there is some controversy surrounding a new investor due to Paramount’s decrease in net worth. Viacom paid $9.8 billions dollars to acquire Paramount in 1994, yet current predictions value the company at only $5.5 billion today [5]. 21^st Century Fox has demonstrated great interest in buying a portion of Paramount, which could be a smart business move and allow the company to begin paying off some of their debt [6].

GLOBAL EXPANSION

[11]

Paramount recently gained rights to continue sharing their content to European countries after a long investigation with the European Union. The EU charged many companies including Google with anti-trust violations, claiming that streaming services such as Sky, which were carrying Paramount programs, were unfairly inaccessible to those outside of certain territories in the European Union. After much debate, Viacom and Paramount Pictures have reached a peaceful and satisfactory conclusion with the EU, allowing the production company to continue to license their programs through premium pay-TV output license agreements. This agreement also abolishes the prospect of fines as well as establishing a basis to solve other disagreements between various entertainment companies and the European Union [7]. Symbiosis between the EU and Paramount Pictures aids the company in reaching global success and distributing their programs and films across the world.

COMING UP

As one of the most iconic companies in the industry, Paramount has produced classic films such as “The Godfather”, and with numerous new releases on the horizon, they continue to hope for more success at the box office. Anticipated releases include “Star Trek Beyond”, “Ben-Hur”, and “Teenage Mutant Ninja Turtles: Out of the Shadows”, all of which Paramount has great hope for [8]. Huge blockbusters are essential not only to increase the company’s market share price and total gross but to maintain their outstanding reputation as well. Films such as “Star Trek Beyond” bode well for Paramount, due to the franchise’s already established consumer base, making the film a much anticipated release in the coming year.

Although Paramount Pictures has seen better days fiscally, the company still holds its head high and continues to produce and distribute projects that change the way audiences view cinema. With the implementation of a new investor combined with the already established leadership of Brad Grey and his team, Paramount will certainly make a comeback in the industry. With the increase of foreign cooperation, Paramount executives have high hopes that their company to extend beyond country borders, making their films renowned around the world.

SOURCES

[1] Paramount.com. (2016). The Paramount Story. Retrieved 25 April 2016.

[2] Atkinson, C. (2016). Paramount’s Brad Grey Needs Big Success to Save his Job. New York Post. Retrieved 25 April 2016.

[3] Paramount.com (2016). Paramount Executives. Retrieved 25 April 2016.

[4] Boxofficemojo.com. (2016). Paramount Yearly Comparisons. Retrieved 25 April 2016.

[5] Bond, P. (2016). Paramount’s Suitors? Here’s Seven Top Prospects. The Hollywood Reporter. Retrieved 25 April 2016.

[6] Atkinson, C. (2016). 21st Century Fox Eyes Minority Slice of Paramount Pictures. New York Post. Retrieved 25 April 2016.

[7] Jafaar, A. (2016). Paramount Offers Concessions in EU Anti-trust Investigation. Deadline Hollywood. Retrieved 25 April 2016.

[8] Boxofficemojo.com. (2016). Paramount Upcoming Releases. Retrieved 25 April 2016.

[9] Paramount.com. (2015). Daddy’s Home Image. Retrieved 25 April 2016.

[10] Wikipedia. (2015). Anomalisa Poster. Retrieved 25 April 2016.

[11] Trekcore. (2015). Star Trek and Beyond Poster. Retrieved 25 April 2016.

[12] Paramount.com. (2015). Brad Grey Executive Biography. Retrieved 25 April 2016.

20th Century Fox (film)

Posted on February 18, 2016 by Rachel Kucharski

20th Century Fox Logo [1]

10201 W Pico Boulevard
Los Angeles, CA 90064
310-FOX-INFO
http://www.foxmovies.com/

History

20^th Century Fox is one of the six biggest film studios in America and is owned by 21^st Century Fox Corporation. The company has released a number of successful films including The Sound of Music, Star Wars, Die Hard, Ice Age, and X-Men. They also distributed the two highest-grossing films of all-time, Avatar and Titanic. [1]

Avatar movie poster [1]

20^th Century Fox was founded in 1935 when Fox Films, owned by William Fox, merged with Twentieth Century Pictures. Joe Schenck took on the role of chief executive while Darryl F. Zanuck became the head of production. The company enjoyed success after the release of The Sound of Music in 1965 and Star Wars in 1977. In 1981, Marc Rich and Marvin Davis took over the company, who then sold it to News Corp., Rupert Murdoch’s company, in 1985. In 2013, News Corporation split into two companies. News Corporation became the publishing arm of the company while 21^st Century Fox became its own television/film company. 20^th Century Fox came under this company. [2]

Executives

Jim Gianopulos, Chairman and CEO [3]

Emma Watts, Production President [4]

Finances

This past February, 21^st Century Fox released their second quarter earnings report for October to December of 2015 and reported revenues of $7.38 billion. Although this was a decrease of 1% ($49 million) from the prior year, this was partially offset by the success of The Martian, which had grossed over $600 million in worldwide box office by December 31, 2016. The Martian continued to grow and ended with $630 million in worldwide box office revenue with its close date on March 17, 2016. Films released during this quarter that carried over at the box office into 2016 were The Revenant, Joy, Alvin and the Chipmunks: The Road Chip, and The Peanuts Movie. [5] [6]

Going into 2016, 20^th Century Fox saw strong box office revenues. The Revenant debuted with $38 million at the domestic box office that weekend. This was an unexpectedly strong open. The film was only predicted to open to less than $25 million. The revenue that opening weekend brought them close to Star Wars: The Force Awakens, grossing at $41.6 million its fourth weekend in theaters. [7] The Peanuts Movie also finished strong with worldwide revenues reaching $246 billion. [8] Another hit for 20^th Century Fox at the box office was Kung Fu Panda 3, which has grossed $504 million worldwide since its release in January. [9]

On April 25, 2016, 21^st Century Fox share prices were listed at $31.00. This is up from $22.50 on February 9^th when share prices fell by as much as 4%. This was likely due to the earnings report released on this day, which predicted that profits would fall due to the strong dollar [5]. Since then, share prices have seen a steady increase and are predicted to continue to rise. The third quarter fiscal report for 21^st Century Fox will be released on May 4, 2016. [10]

Awards Season

Alejandro G. Iñárritu and Leonardo DiCaprio win three Golden Globe Awards for The Revenant [11]

20^th Century Fox studio releases did well during the 2016 awards season. At the Golden Globes, Jennifer Lawrence won best actress in a Comedy or Musical for Joy. The Martian won Best Motion Picture for a Comedy or Musical and Matt Damon also won best actor for his role in the film. The Revenant took home the Best Motion Picture award for a Drama. Leonardo DiCaprio and Alejandro G. Iñárritu won best actor and best director, respectively. [12]

At The Academy Awards, The Revenant counted twelve nominations, the most of any film nominated. Leonardo DiCaprio won his first Oscar for Best Actor. The Revenant also won Best Cinematography and Directing. [13] The nominations and wins resulted in a boost of box office revenue for those films that were still in theaters, particularly The Revenant, that’s ticket sales increased more than 80 percent after The Academy Award nominees were announced. Between the announced nominations and Oscar Night, The Revenant brought in $113 million. The film closed with a total of $523 million worldwide. [14]

The New Superhero

20^th Century Fox’s current film in theaters is Deadpool. The film stars Ryan Reynolds and was directed by Tim Miller. Deadpool is Marvel’s new R-Rated superhero movie that features a former Special Forces operative with accelerated healing powers and an attitude problem. [15]

Deadpool has broken records since its release on February 12, 2016. It became 20^th Century Fox’s largest opening ever with $132.4 million. It also had the largest opening weekend ever for an R-rated film and the biggest opening day in February with $47.5 million. [16] So far, the film has grossed a total of $760 million thus far and is approaching its eleventh week in theaters. [17] Deadpool has been a game changer for the superhero genre. As one of the first high-budget R-rated superhero films in recent years (alongside Watchmen and Kick-Ass), there was high-risk for 20^th Century Fox in the box office. But the film was widely received and praised for its snarky humor, romance, and characters rather than big-budget action scenes. [18] Following this success, 20^th Century Fox will likely make Wolverine 3 R-rated. The film’s current release date is March 3^rd, 2017. [19]

20^th Century Fox has already confirmed Deadpool 2 for production. Tim Miller and Ryan Reynolds will return for the sequel as well as the creative team. The film is said to mimic the original in tone, keeping the same snarky humor and attitude. The film is currently rumored for release in 2017. [20]

Coming Soon

Independence Day: Resurgence movie poster [23]

This summer, 20^th Century Fox is releasing four films. X-Men: Apocalypse will open on May 27, 2016 as the ninth installment in the X-Men series with Bryan Singer as director and a host of famous cast members. To market the film, 20^th Century Fox released an X-Men Movies app as well as an “Apocalypse timeline” on their website. [21]

Independence Day: Resurgence, the sequel to the highly acclaimed Independence Day, will open on June 24, 2016 starring Liam Hemsworth and Jeff Goldblum. Ice Age: Collision Course and Mike and Dave Need Wedding Dates are also set to release in July. [22]

Sources

[1] Foxmovies.com. 20^th Century Fox. Retrieved April 23, 2016.
[2] 20th Century Fox Film Corporation. Encyclopedia Britannica. Retrieved April 23, 2016.
[3] Yamato, Jen. (May 16, 2014). Fox’s Jim Gianopulos Delivers USC Film Commencement Speech; Marvel’s Kevin Feige Celebrates Rejection: Transcript. Deadline. Retrieved April 26, 2016.
[4] Fleming, Mike Jr. (August 14, 2014). Fox’s Emma Watts Re-Ups For Three Years After Robust Summer. Deadline. Retrieved April 26, 2016.
[5] Earnings Release for the Quarter Ended December 31, 2015. (February 8, 2016). 21st Century Fox. Retrieved April 24, 2016.
[6] The Martian. Box Office Mojo. Retrieved April 24, 2016.
[7] Fritz, Ben. (January 11, 2016). ‘The Revenant’ has surprisingly strong box-office debut. MarketWatch. Retrieved April 24, 2016.
[8] The Peanuts Movie. Box Office Mojo. Retrieved April 25, 2016.
[9] Kung Fu Panda 3. Box Office Mojo. Retrieved April 25, 2016.
[10] Twenty-First Century Fox, Inc. CI A. MarketWatch. Retrieved April 25, 2016.
[11] Robehmed, Natalie. (January 11, 2016).‘The Revenant’ Wins Best Picture At The 2016 Golden Globe Awards. Forbes. Retrieved April 25, 2016.
[12] Sharf, Zack. (February 24, 2016). The Indiewire 2015-16 Awards Season Winners Guide. The Indiewire. Retrieved April 25, 2016.
[13] Donnelly, Jim. (February 29, 2016). Oscar Winners 2016: See The Complete List. The Oscars. Retrieved April 25, 2016.
[14] Brueggemann, Tom. (March 11, 2016). Oscar Box Office Winners and Losers 2016. Indiewire. Retrieved April 26, 2016.
[15] Deadpool. Internet Movie Database. Retrieved April 26, 2016.
[16] Garreffa, Anthony. (February 17, 2016). Deadpool becomes largest opening ever for 20th Century Fox. TweakTown. Retrieved April 26, 2016.
[17] Deadpool. Box Office Mojo. Retrieved April 26, 2016.
[18] VanDerWerff, Todd. (February 15, 2016). Deadpool’s box office unexpectedly broke records. Here’s what Hollywood should learn from it. Vox. Retrieved April 26, 2016.
[19] Siegal, Jacob. (February 16, 2016). Deadpool’s success could lead to an ‘R’ rating for Wolverine 3. BGR. Retrieved April 26, 2016.
[20] Mccarthy, Tyler and Rebecka Schumann. (April 4, 2016). ‘Deadpool 2’ Confirmed By 20th Century Fox; Director And Creative Team Returning. International Business Times. Retrieved April 26, 2016.
[21] X-MEN: Apocalypse (2016). 20th Century Fox. Retrieved April 26, 2016.
[22] Coming Soon. 20th Century Fox. Retrieved April 26, 2016.
[23] Perry, Spencer. (March 8, 2016). The Aliens are Back in New Independence Day: Resurgence International Poster. ComingSoon.net. Retrieved April 26, 2016.

20th Century Fox (Film)

Posted on September 30, 2015 by Derrick Owens

By Derrick Owens

20th Century Fox Logo [1] Source: foxmovie.com

Twentieth Century Fox Film Corporation

10201 W Pico Blvd

Los Angeles, CA 90064

http://www.foxmovies.com/

Overview

Twentieth Century Fox Film Corporation, commonly referred to as 20th Century Fox or Fox, is an international film production and distribution company headquartered in Los Angeles, California. 20th Century Fox is a subsidy of the 21st Century Fox Corporation, which also owns assets in television stations, television broadcast networks, and cable network programming. Fox is a part of the “Big Six” film studios, which includes Columbia, Warner Brothers, Disney, Universal, and Paramount. The “Big Six” serve as Fox’s main competition. 20th Century Fox owns the rights to a number of valuable franchises including, X-Men, Ice Age, Die Hard, and Planet of the Apes. Fox is also known for distributing the two highest grossing films of all-time, Avatar and Titanic, both of which were directed by James Cameron [2].

Key Executives

Jim Gianopulos, Chairman and CEO [3]

Stacey Snider, Co-Chairman [4]

History

The origins of 20th Century Fox began in 1915 when film distributor William Fox established his own film production company after moving out to Los Angeles called Fox Films. In 1935, Twentieth Pictures’ Joseph Schenck and Darryl F. Zanuck left United Artists and merged with Fox Films to create the 20th Century Fox Film Corporation [6].

From the 1952 film Viva Zapata! [5] Source: Wikepdia.com

In 1981, the company was sold to investors Marc Rich and Marvin Davis. They subsequently sold the company to Rupert Murdoch, who merged the company into his own media conglomerate, News Corp, in 1985. News Corp was split into two companies in 2013. There is now the new News Corporation, which contained most of Murdoch’s print media assets, and 21st Century Fox, which specializes in filmed entertainment and is the current parent company of 20th Century Fox [7].

Finances

In the last fiscal year (June 30, 2014 – June 30, 2015), 20th Century Fox put out 25 films into general release domestically and they plan on releasing another 25 in fiscal 2016. Of those 25 planned films, Fox has already released six titles including Fantastic Four, The Martian, and The Peanuts Movie. Fox’s most anticipated movies yet to be released in 2016 include Deadpool, X-Men: Apocalypse, and Independence Day Resurgence [8].

20th Century Fox produces and distributes its films through a number of internal units:

Twentieth Century Fox and Fox2000 handles films for mainstream audiences.

Logo for Fox Searchlight [9] Source: foxsearchlight.com

Fox Searchlight Pictures produces and releases smaller, independent films for specialized audiences.

Twentieth Century Fox Animation produces and distributes feature length-animated films

Fox International Productions, Inc. co-produces and acquires local-language films for distribution worldwide.

Fox generates money from its films by distributing the films theatrically (domestically and internationally), through home media formats (such as digital distribution), on premium pay and SVOD, and on television and cable networks. Last year, the domestic home entertainment division for Fox released or re-released approximately 1,268 produced and acquired titles [10].

For fiscal 2015, revenues at the Filmed Entertainment segment decreased $154 million, or 2%, as compared to fiscal 2014. Increased production and marketing costs as well as a decrease in home entertainment sales led to the change. 20th Century Fox’s parent company, 21st Century Fox Corporation, has seen their stock dip in the last year. After reaching a high of $37.49 in December of 2014, the stock has fallen to its lower point since January 2012. In September it stood at only $25.41. Even with the drop of its stock prices, 21st Century Fox Corporation saw profit increase by 54% in 2015 compared to the previous year. Profits were at $8.306 billion in 2015 versus $4.514 billion in 2014 [11].

In Theatres

The Martian

Directed by Ridley Scott and starring Matt Damon, Jessica Chastain, Kristen Wiig, and Jeff Daniels, The Martian is a science-fiction adventure film produced and distributed by Fox. It was released on October 2, 2015 and posted the second highest October opening weekend of all time with a $54.3 million haul. It has gone on to be Fox’s most successful film of the year thus far bringing in over $217 million domestically and nearly $500 million worldwide. It’s production budget of $108 million means the film will be significantly profitable for the corporation. The film’s box office revenue has the possibility of growing even further as many Oscar analyst predict it will be in the running for best picture, best director, and best actor. The Martian is unique because it is a standalone, original film which has achieved worldwide success [12].

The Maze Runner: Scorched Trials

This sci-fi action-adventure film is a sequel to the 2014 hit Maze Runner. The film opened on nearly the same weekend as its predecessor and opened slightly under expectations. Scorched Trials brought in $30.3 million in its first weekend after opening on September 18, which was down from the 32.5 million opening of Maze Runner.

The film, based off of the popular novel series, is directed by Wes Ball and stars Dylan O’Brien, Kaya Scodelario, and Thomas Brodie-Sangste. Even though it has only grossed $80.9 million domestically with a $61 million production budget, Scorched Trials has been saved by its international performance. It has grossed over $230 million overseas, which motivated Fox to greenlight the film’s sequel, Maze Runner: The Death Cure, due out in 2017 [13].

The Peanuts Movie

This family animation film was released by Fox as part of their distribution deal with Blue Sky Studios. It was the first feature film in the Peanuts franchise in 35 years. It took over eight years to make, because the family of Charles Schultz, the creator of the comic, wanted the film to done with respect to his original work [14]. The film opened to $44.2 million on the weekend of November 6, playing as counter-programming to Spectre, Although there are still a few major international markets left to open, Peanuts has 92.6% of its revenue coming from domestic totals as of 11/29. The film has been a domestic hit with $116.7 million grossed so far, but international performance may need to increase before the $99 million production can be called profitable [15].

News and Developments

20th Century Fox has three films to be released before the end of 2015. The first film is Alvin and the Chipmunks: The Road Chip, which is due out December 18. Fox hopes to continue the success of the franchise, which has banked over $1.1 billion at the box office [16]. The other two films, The Revenant and Joy, are being distributed in limited release on December 25 before going wide in January. These two films are both expected to be major Oscar players and they star Leonardo DiCaprio and Jennifer Lawrence respectively [17].

Oculus Video by Oculus VR [22] Source: roadtovr.com

Fox signed an agreement with Oculus VR, making it the first major movie studio to invest in virtual reality as a way of showing their films. Over 100 films from Fox’s library will be released in the virtual reality cinema Oculus Video [18].

Fox International Productions entered into an exclusive first look deal with Paul Heth and Michael Schlicht for Russian-language films. The duo is known for their successes as they have overseen five of the ten highest grossing local language films in the modern Russian film era [19].

Planned 20th Century Fox World Theme Park in Dubai [21] Source: variety.com

Fox announced plans to open its first Fox-branded resort in Dubai featuring rides based off of its most popular films including Titanic, Aliens, Predator, and Ice Age. It will open in 2018 and is planned to cost approximately $850 million [20].

Sources

[1] 20th Century Fox Logo. Fox Movies. Retrieved November 30, 2015

[2] About. Fox Movies. Retrieved November 30, 2015

[3] James N. Gianopulos. 21st Century Fox. Retrieved November 29, 2015

[4]. Stacey Snider. Variety. Retrieved November 30, 2015

[5] From the 1952 film Viva Zapata! Wikipedia. Retrieved November 30, 2015

[[6] About. Fox UK. Retrieved November 29, 2015

[7] Welch, Chris. May 9, 2013. The Verge. 21st Century Fox logo unveiled ahead of News Corp split. Retrieved November 30, 2015

[8] 21st Century Fox Annual Report 2015. 21st Century Fox. Retrieved November 30, 2015

[9] Fox Searchlight Logo. Fox Searchlight. Retrieved November 29, 2015

[10] 21st Century Fox Annual Report 2015. 21st Century Fox. Retrieved November 30, 2015

[11] Twenty-First Century Fox, Inc. Yahoo Finances. Retrieved November 30, 2015

[12] Tartaglione, Nancy. November 24, 2015. Deadline Hollywood. ‘The Martian’ Closing In On $500M Global: How Fox Marketers Brought Ridley Scott’s Cool Science To The Masses. Retrieved November 29, 2015.

[13] Maze Runner: Scorched Trials. Box Office Mojo. Retrieved November 28, 2015.

[14] Smith, Chris. November 1, 2014. The Press Democrat. How the Schulz family made ‘The Peanuts Movie’ a reality. Retrieved November 30, 2015

[15] The Peanuts Movie. Box Office Mojo. Retrieved November 28, 2015.

[16] Alvin and the Chipmunks. Box Office Mojo. Retrieved November 29, 2015

[17] Cunningham, Todd. September 8, 2015. The Wrap. Fox Fuels Yule Logjam With 3 Christmas Releases. Retrieved November 30, 2015.

[18] Geier, Thom. September 24, 2015. The Wrap. ‘Alien,’ ‘X-Men: Days of Future Past’ Among 100 Fox Movies Coming to Oculus Virtual-Reality Headsets. Retrieved November 29, 2015.

[19] Business Wire. November 18, 2015. Fox International Productions Strikes Strategic Alliance With Paul Heth and Michael Schlicht for Russian-Language Films. Retrieved November 29, 2015

[20] Lang, Brent. November 3, 2015. Variety. Fox Building Theme Park in Dubai With ‘Titanic,’ ‘Aliens’ Attractions. Retrieved November 30, 2015.

[21] Lang, Brent. November 3, 2015. Variety. Fox Building Theme Park in Dubai With ‘Titanic,’ ‘Aliens’ Attractions. Retrieved November 30, 2015.

[22] Oculus Cinema. Oculus VR. Retrieved November 30, 2015.

Viacom

Posted on December 1, 2014 by htfergus

by Timothy Chew

[1] Viacom Logo

About Viacom

Viacom is an American mass media company that specialises in entertainment content in over 160 countries across television, film, mobile and online platforms. Viacom is the parent company to many of the world’s most elite entertainment brands including MTV Networks, Nickelodeon, VH1, BET Networks, Comedy Central, SPIKE, TV Land, CMT, Paramount Pictures and many more [2 ].

Reaching approximately 700 million global subscribers, Viacom’s media networks have become one of the largest media conglomerates in the world [3].

Television Networks

[4] Viacom’s Media Network Brands

Viacom is home to a wide variety of television networks and has successfully developed original entertainment content that has reached a diverse audience [4]. MTV is best known for producing the MTV Video Music Awards, Nickelodeon is one of the most influential television channels in children’s entertainment and Comedy Central is America’s number one comedy channel. Viacom has produced many popular television shows including MTV’s Awkward and Teen Wolf, Comedy Central’s The Daily Show, Nickelodeon’s SpongeBob SquarePants and many more [4].

Film

[5] Paramount Pictures Logo

Paramount Pictures Corporation is a film production and distribution studio that is also a subsidiary of Viacom. Paramount is the distributor for DreamWorks Animation, Marvel, MTV Films, Nickelodeon Movies, Paramount Pictures, Paramount Classics and Paramount Vantage [4]. In 2014, Paramount grossed $953.6 million, becoming the sixth highest grossing film studio in the box office [6]. Paramount has produced many major blockbusters films including “Titanic“, “Transformers“, “Forrest Gump“, “Shrek” and “Iron Man” [7].

Financials

Viacom has remained well positioned financially this year. In the fourth quarter of 2014, Viacom’s revenue has increased 9% from $3.6 billion to $3.9 billion [8]. Viacom’s Media Networks annual year-end revenue has rose significantly from $9.6 billion to 10.1 billion [8]. However, Viacom’s film entertainment’s suffered a decrease in annual year-end revenue dropping from $4.2 billion to $3.7 billion [8]. Viacom’s year-end operating income has rose to 5% to a record breaking $4.13 billion from $3.9 billion in 2013 [8].

Key Executives

[9] Philippe Dauman, President and Chief Executive Officer

[10] Thomas E. Dooley, Chief Operating Officer

[11] Wade Davis, Chief Financial Officer and Executive Vice President, Strategy & Corporate Development

Recent News

[12] Viacom Acquires Channel 5

Viacom Closes Acquisition of UK’s Channel 5

After announcing a deal on May 1st, Viacom has closed acquisition of British’s broadcaster Channel 5 for $725 million on September 10th [12]. This deal was made to expand Viacom’s investment in its entertainment content produced in the UK. In addition, Nickelodeon will be partnering with Channel 5’s pre-school program, Milkshake. Viacom and Channel 5 will collaborate to produce a new animated series called “Nella the Knight“, their first co-production which is under Viacom’s wing [12]. Viacom and Channel 5 will co-fund “Nella the Knight“, which will be produced in the UK. Channel 5 will also air episodes of SpongeBob SquarePants and Teenage Mutant Ninja Turtles [12]. Besides that, MTV UK and Channel 5 are partnering to commission a new series called 10,000 BC. In 10,000 BC, 20 participants leave the comforts of their modern life and travel back to the Stone Age. This 10 episode series is set to premiere on Channel 5 in 2015 [12].

[13] Viacom and Sony Partnership

Viacom and Sony Inks Internet Distribution Deal

Viacom announced a major programming deal with Sony to license live and on demand programming for at least 22 Viacom cable networks including Comedy Central, MTV, Nickelodeon, SPIKE, and VH1 for Sony’s cloud-based TV service [13]. This agreement marks Viacom’s first deal to provide its networks for an Internet based live TV and Video On Demand service. Sony’s new cloud-based TV service will integrate live TV content with a dynamic experience people are accustomed to look for form their network. This new service will provide access to hundreds of hours of Viacom programming to over 75 million Internet-enabled Sony devices in the U.S [14].

Releases

[15] Teenage Mutant Ninja Turtles, directed by Jonathan Liebasman

Teenage Mutant Ninja Turtles

 “Teenage Mutant Ninja Turtles” is an action comedy film that made tremendous success in the box office this summer. The film was produced by highly acclaimed “Transformers” producer Michael Bay and directed by Jonathan Liebasman. “Teenage Mutant Ninja Turtles” was a recreation of the original comic series. On its opening weekend, this summer blockbuster locked in a staggering $65 million [16]. Since its release, “Teenage Mutant Ninja Turtles” has made $191 million in the US and $286 million in the international market. This film surprisingly remained number 1 in the box office on its first two weeks of release [16].Unlike many films released this summer, this film managed to surpass its budget within 3 weeks of its release, proving to be a major success [16].

[17] Interstellar, directed by Christopher Nolan

Interstellar

“Interstellar” is a Sci-Fi thriller starring Matthew McConaughey and Anne Hathaway. The film is based on a team of explorers who travel to space on an adventure to search for a habitable planet that could potentially save the human race [17 . The film was director by Christopher Nolan. Unfortunately, “Interstellar” failed to reach its predicted $50 million on its opening weekend, and only made $47.5 million instead [18]. Although, “Interstellar” has not done quite as well domestically by only making $138 million since its premiere, it has been a major success in the foreign market making a whopping $331 million, surpassing its $165 million budget. Since its opening weekend, the film has made over $468 million worldwide proving to be a global success [19].

Upcoming Releases

[20] Eye Candy, MTV’s New Thriller

MTV Announces New Scripted Thriller

MTV announced a new scripted thriller series called “Eye Candy.” The new series is based on R.L Stine’s popular novel “Eye Candy.” The series is produced by Jason Blum and Catherine Hardwicke. “Eye Candy” revolves around tech genius, Lindy who is played by Victoria Justice [21]. Lindy begins online dating and suspects one of her strange suitors to be a potential serial killer. Lindy then partners with a team of hackers to solve these mysterious murders on the streets of New York. “Eye Candy” is an 10-episode, hour-long thriller that is set to premiere on January 12, 2015 [21].

Trailer [22].

Mission-Impossible-5-starring-Tome-Cruise

[23] Mission Impossible 5, directed by Christopher McQuarrie

Mission Impossible To Release Fifth Film

The fifth instalment of the Mission Impossible franchise is hitting theatres next winter. The film is directed by Christopher McQuarrie and written by Drew Pearce. “Mission Impossible 5” is produced by Paramount and J.J Abrams’ Production Company, Bad Robot. In “Mission Impossible 5“, Tom Cruise will be returning to his role of Ethan Hunt. The previous film, “Mission Impossible: Ghost Protocol” set the record very high after grossing a staggering $695 million globally [24]. Mission Impossible 5 is set to release on December 25th, 2015. The film’s trailer has not been released [25].

Sources

[1] Viacom’s Logo, Variety.com, RT: 11/30/2014

[2] About Viacom, Viacom.com, RT: 11/30/2014

[3] “Advertising Revenue Drive Media Networks Business“, Marketrealist.com, RT: 11/30/2014

[4] Viacom Brands, Viacom.com, RT: 11/30/2014

[5] Paramount Pictures’s Logo, Paramountguilds.com, RT: 11/30/2014

[6] Studio Market Share, Boxofficemojo.com, RT: 11/30/2014

[7] Paramount’s All Time Box Office Results, Boxofficemojo.com, RT: 11/30/2014

[8] Viacom’s Fiscal Report 2014, Viacom.com, RT: 11/30/2014

[9] Philippe Dauman, Viacom.com, RT: 11/30/2014

[10] Thomas E. Dooley, Viacom.com, RT: 11/30/2014

[11] Wade Davis,Viacom.com, RT: 11/30/2014

[12] Viacom Closes Acquisition of Channel 5, Viacom.com, RT: 11/30/2014

[13] Viacom and Sony Partnership,Viacom.com, RT: 11/30/2014

[14] Viacom Inks Pact with Sony, Variety.com, 9/10/2014, RT: 11/30/2014

[15] Teenage Mutant Ninja Turtles Poster, Teenagemutantninjaturtlesmovie.com, RT: 11/30/2014

[16] Box Office Results, Boxofficemojo.com, RT: 11/30/2014

[17] Interstellar Poster, Interstellar-movie.com, RT: 11/30/2014

[18] “Interstellar Final Box Office Fails to Hit $50 Million Estimates”, Variety.com, 11/10/2014, RT: 11/30/2014

[19] Box Office Results, Boxofficemojo.com, RT: 11/30/2014

[20] Eye Candy Poster, Hollywoordreporter.com, 11/02/2014, RT: 11/30/2014

[21] MTV’s New Scripted Thriller, Viacom.com, RT: 11/30/2014

[22] Eye Candy Trailer, Youtube.com, RT: 11/30/2014

[23] Mission Impossible 5 Poster, Screenrant.com, RT: 11/30/2014

[24] Box Office Results, Boxofficemojo.com, RT: 11/30/2014

[25] “Mission: Impossible 5 to Hit Theaters in December 2015”, Hollywoodreporter.com, 11/13/2014, RT: 11/30/2014

Paramount Pictures

Posted on October 5, 2014 by sdtanz

by Steph Tanz

[1] The Paramount Pictures Logo

Key Executives:

[2] Brad Grey, Chairman & CEO

[3] Rob Moore, Vice Chairman, Paramount Pictures

[4] Frederick Huntsberry, Chief Operating Officer, Paramount Pictures

[5] Adam Goodman, President, Paramount Pictures

History

Adolph Zuker, Jesse Lasky and Cecil DeMile founded Paramount Pictures in 1912. It was only after Zuker and Lasky combined their business ideas and created Famous Players-Lasky Corporation, now known as Paramount Pictures. In 1920, Paramount Pictures became the first successful nationwide film distribution company and is currently considered to be part of the “Big Six” film studios in Hollywood. Paramount Pictures has released iconic films such as The Ten Commandments, The Godfather, Top Gun and Titanic [6].

Paramount Communications Inc. and Viacom Inc. merged in 1994 and the deal was said to be valued at $8.2 billion [7]. The current Chairman and CEO, Brad Grey, began his position in 2005 and continues to bring the company success.

Financials

In 2013, Paramount began a new approach in the film industry by releasing fewer films but increasing their profits. Although domestic ticket sales have plunged to less than $900 million, Paramount has become consistently profitable. This is because of the studio’s profit margin that has been more than 5 percent for the past few years [8]. Although, the 2013 tactic did not work out because Paramount Home Media Distribution’s revenue fell 38% as a result of fewer releases. However, revenue increased to $1.36 billion, which is a 12% increase from last year. The increase is primarily because of a strong theatrical performance from Transformers: Age of Extinction [9].

[10] Transformers: Age of Extinction captures the story of Optimus Prime and his Autobots fighting to save Earth’s history with the help from Optimus’ daughter and a mechanic.

Transformers: Age of Extinction was released on June 27th and hit a box-office milestone by reaching $1 billion worldwide. This is only the second movie that has ever hit this mark in the toy-to-film franchise. China showed the biggest contribution by selling $300 million in ticket sales [11]. With performers such as Mark Wahlberg, Stanley Tucci and Nicola Peltz, the movie has received 8 nominations and won 1 award [12].

IN THEATRES

[13] Interstellar is based on a team of explorers that travel beyond our galaxy and discover the future among the stars.

INTERSTELLAR

The Sci-fi film starring Matthew McConaughey and Anne Hathaway was released on November 5^th in the United States and internationally. The film had pleasing results when it was first released in 3,561 theatres and averaged $13,342 per theatre. During opening weekend, the movie made $48 million domestically and was ranked #2 following Big Hero 6. The film has accumulated grosses of $147 million domestically, which accounts for 27.1% of the entire gross, and $542 million worldwide. The budget is estimated to be $165 million therefore the gross income quadrupled their budget[14].

Interstellar is nominated for the Hollywood Music in Media Awards and already won the Truly Moving Picture Award in the Heartland Film Awards.[15]

[16] Interstellar Trailer

Paramount Pictures is not satisfied with the results of the film and teamed up with AMC theatres to offer a promotion that lets the audience have the opportunity to get unlimited repeat viewing of the film. This is directed towards AMC’s frequent customer program “Stubs” and gives the customer an Interstellar pass at a discounted price and unlimited viewing at any AMC theatre. [17]
Also, Paramount Pictures and Google teamed up and began creating a time capsule that is going to capture all the highlights of “life on earth and preserve the past.” [18]

MEN, WOMEN & CHILDREN

[23] Men, Women & Children follows the story of a group of teenagers and their parents discovering how the internet has impacted lives.

The drama film starring Adam Sandler and Jennifer Garner was a flop for Paramount Pictures.The domestic total gross is estimated to be $705,908. There was a limited release date, October 1st, that was only shown in 17 theatres and averaged $2,825 per theatre. The wide opening weekend was released to 608 theatres and only averaged $504 per theatre[19]. According to BoxOfficeMojo, these results are the fifth-worst ever for a movie on more than 600 screens[20].

Although Adam Sandler is a popular actor, that wasn’t enough to bring out a huge audience. Men, Women & Children did not get a strong response from the Toronto International Film Festival [21] and the critics on Rotten Tomatoes were not a fan of the film and gave them at 31 percent[22]. Also, the movie was competing against another R-rated movie, Gone Girl, which was a big hit in the marketplace.

WHAT’S HAPPENING NOW

In mid-October, investors took Paramount Pictures to trial claiming that the studio secured a “risky business strategy” when it obtained $40 million in financing. The investors are upset that the movies released during the mid 2000’s did so poorly. The investors were asking for $16 million and punitive damages in which they claim amounted to fraud. Both sides agreed with the films disappointing results in the box office therefore the investors argued that it is unfair that Paramount didn’t disclose it’s plans to reduce international distribution [24]. The US judge dismissed the case by ruling the evidence “inconsistent with the investors claims,” therefore Paramount Pictures won the lawsuit [25].
Paramount Pictures is ranked as the #6 studio in the overall studio market share with a 10.4% market share. Overall, they have released 11 movies in 2014 and generated $953.6 million [26].

[27] Plans for Paramount Pictures park

Paramount Pictures plans to create a Hollywood-inspired theme park that would include water parks, restaurants and hotels based on Paramount’s movies [28]. The resort plans to open at Easter 2020 and create close to 27,000 jobs. The London Resort Company Holdings (LRCH) is in charge of the plans for the theme park. The location is set to be in Kent, which is very close to London [29].

On December 1, 2014, Viacom shares were down 1.44% at $74.54 a share. Although this is not the highest market share, it is a rebound from the company’s low point in October ($68.24 a share) but nowhere close to the company’s high point this summer ($87.31 a share, in July) [31].

COMING SOON TO THEATRES NEAR YOU

TOP FIVE

[32] Top Five Trailer

The comedy film from writer-director Chris Rock is set to release a limited screening of Top Five on December 5th. The wide release date is set to be December 12th. Top Five follows a comedian attempting to become a serious actor but ends up broadcasting his wedding with his fiancé who is a reality-TV star [33]. At the Toronto International Film Festival the comedy garnered positive attention therefore it is expected to do well [34].

THE GAMBLER

[35] The Gambler Trailer

The drama/thriller film directed by Rupert Wyatt is set to release on December 19th. The film has a skillful cast that includes Mark Wahlberg as the main character and other actors such as Jessica Lange, Brie Larson and Michael Kenneth Williams. The Gambler is about a college professor who has an affair with one of his students while being a high-stakes gambler. [36]

SOURCES:

[1] Paramount Pictures Logo, Paramount.com, RT: 11/15/2014

[2] Brad Grey, Chairman & CEO, Cached.newslookup.com, RT: 11/15/2014

[3] Rob Moore, Vice Chairman, Trekmovie.com, RT: 11/15/2014

[4] Frederick Huntsberry, Chief Operating Officer, Gettyimages.com, RT: 11/15/2014

[5] Adam Goodman, President, Tfw2005.com, RT: 11/15/2014

[6] “The Paramount Story”, Paramount.com, RT: 11/17/2014

[7] “Deal Ends Long Paramount and Viacom Saga”, Articles.latimes.com, RT: 11/17/2014

[8] “Strong Profit Margin at Paramount Pictures Underlines a Hollywood Shift”, Nytimes.com, RT: 11/17/2014

[9] Paramount Q4 Profit Drops 27%, Homemediamagazine.com, RT: 11/17/2014

[10] Transformers: Age of Extinction, Imdb.com, RT: 11/17/2014

[11] “Box Office Milestone: ‘Transformers: Age of Extinction’ Hits $1 Billion Worldwide,” hollywoodreporter.com, RT: 11/20/2014

[12] Transformers: Age of Extinction, Pro-imdb.com, RT: 11/29/2014

[13]Interstellar, Imdb.com, RT: 11/29/2014

[14]Interstellar, Boxofficemojo.com, RT: 11/30/2014

[15] Interstellar, Pro-imdb.com, RT: 11/29/2014

[16] Interstellar Trailer, Youtube.com, RT: 11/29/2014

[17] Paramount Tries New Ticket Tack to Boost Interstellar Sales, Blogs.Indiewire.com, RT: 11/20/2014

[18] Paramount, Google Start on ‘Interstellar’- sparked ‘time capsule’ Film, latimes.com, RT: 11/29/2014

[19] Men, Women & Children, Boxofficemojo.com, RT: 11/30/2014

[20] Worst Wide Openings, Boxofficemojo.com, RT: 11/20/2014

[21] Jason Reitman’s ‘Men, Women and Children’ Takes Box Office Bellyflop, Thewrap.com, RT: 11/29/2014

[22] Men, Women & Children, Rottentomatoes.com, RT: 11/30/2014

[23] Men, Women & Children, Imdb.com, RT: 11/20/2014

[24] Investors take Paramount to trial over U.S. movie Losses, Reuters.com, RT: 11/30/2014

[25] US judge tosses Paramount Movie Financing Fraud Case after trial, Cnbc.com, RT: 11/30/2014

[26] Studio Market Share, Boxofficemojo.com, RT: 11/30/2014

[27] Paramount Pictures Plan for Park, Slashfilm.com, RT: 11/30/2014

[28] Paramount Pictures Signs Development Deal For U.K. Theme Park, Slashfilm.com, RT: 11/30/2014

[29] Paramount Pictures resort plans on display, Bbc.com, RT: 11/30/2014

[31] Viacom Shares, Wikinvest.com, RT: 12/1/2014

[32] Top Five Trailer, Youtube.com, RT: 11/30/2014

[33] Top Five, Pro-labs.imdb.com, RT: 11/30/2014

[34] Paramount Sets Chris Rock’s Toronto Biggie ‘Top Five’ For December, Deadline.com, RT: 11/30/2014

[35] The Gambler Trailer, Youtube.com, RT: 11/30/2014

[36] The Gambler, Pro-labs.imdb.com, RT: 12/1/2014

Paramount Pictures

Posted on October 5, 2014 by bjyuran

by Brian Yuran

Paramount Pictures

Paramount Pictures Logo [1]

Contact Information: [2]

555 Melrose Avenue, Los Angeles, CA 90038

(323)-956-5000

Facebook: www.facebook.com/Paramount

Twitter: @paramountpics

http://www.paramount.com

About Paramount Pictures:

Founded in 1912, Paramount Pictures is the fifth oldest surviving film studio. Paramount specializes in film production, distribution, and digital entertainment. It has built its success on many hit films and franchises, such as Titanic, Indiana Jones, Star Trek, and Transformers. [3] In 1994, Paramount was purchased by Viacom for $8.28 billion. [4]

Key Executives: [5]

Brad Grey: Chairman and CEO

Rob Moore: Vice Chairman

Frederick Huntsberry: COO

Adam Goodman: President, Paramount Film Group

Financials:

Paramount Pictures’ 2013 estimated box office revenue was approximately $970 million. [6] Also, its 2013 market share was 10.8%. As of late, Paramount Pictures’ performance has not been ideal. While it was the most profitable of the major studios in 2011, it is currently last. However, Paramount has a business model to fix its recent slip. It plans on making less films and going for guaranteed profit. In fact, Paramount is only releasing 11 films from now on as opposed to 16 in previous years. The studio believes this new business model will work because its profit margin has been 5.5% or more for the past three years, up from 0.5% in 2008. [7] Through these new tactics, Paramount looks to best competitors Warner Bros., Fox, and The Walt Disney Company.

Right Here, Right Now:

Over the summer, Paramount Pictures released the popular franchise films, Teenage Mutant Ninja Turtles and Transformers: Age of Extinction. Paramount’s fall season is slow as it is only releasing Interstellar and Men, Women, & Children.

Transformers: Age of Extinction

MV5BMjEwNTg1MTA5Nl5BMl5BanBnXkFtZTgwOTg2OTM4MTE@._V1_SX640_SY720_

Transformers: Age of Extinction Official Poster [8]

Transformers: Age of Extinction dominated the box office, despite negative reviews. It currently holds an 18% approval rating on Rotten Tomatoes. [9] During its opening weekend, the film grossed $138,345,769 million, giving it the 29th biggest opening of all time. Internationally, the film crossed the $1 billion mark. It has become the highest-grossing film in Chinese film history, generating over $300 million in revenue. [10] Many studios like Paramount have been setting films overseas to appeal to the international market.

Teenage Mutant Ninja Turtles

Teenage Mutant Ninja Turtles: Michelangelo [11]

Paramount distributed Teenage Mutant Ninja Turtles, a joint Nickelodeon Movies and Platinum Dunes production, in August. The movie focuses on the origin story of the Ninja Turtles and their quest to defeat the evil Shredder. [12] Directed by Jonathan Liebesman and produced by Michael Bay, Teenage Mutant Ninja Turtles was major financial success.

It grossed $93.7 million globally during its opening weekend. Domestically, it had an opening of $65 million in 3,845 theaters. To date, the film has grossed over $400 million at the international box office. [13] Teenage Mutant Ninja Turtles had the fourth biggest box office debut ever during the month of August. As a result, a sequel has been ordered for June 3rd, 2016. [14]

Men, Women, & Children

Adam Sandler in Men, Women, & Children [15]

Directed by Jason Reitman, Men, Women, & Children tells the story of a group of parents and high school students who face the consequences of the power of the Internet. [16] It has only grossed $705,908, which is substantially less than its $16 million budget. It is on track to be a major flop. In its wide release it only earned $306,367. Men, Women, & Children had the fifth worst wide release opening to a movie released on 600 screens. [17] Critical reviews have been negative with a 29% approval rating on Rotten Tomatoes. [18]

The negative buzz around the film is shocking as the topic very much pertains to the present. The internet has become such an integral part of all our lives. Also, the cast features A-list actors, such as Adam Sandler, Jennifer Garner, and Judy Greer. In fact, Sandler has been a huge box office draw for the past 15 years; his movies have grossed nearly $4 billion at the box office. [19] Even he could not salvage the film. Furthermore, the main issue was that the plot lines between the characters did not intertwine strongly. There was a huge opportunity to make this film great, but it was unfortunately bland and lacking in aesthetic value according to Chief Film Critic Justin Chang of Variety. [20]

Interstellar:

Interstellar Movie Poster [21]

Directed and co-written by Christopher Nolan and starring Matthew McConaughey and Anne Hathaway, Interstellar focuses on a team of individuals who search for a habitable planet that will allow humanity to survive. [22] It is maybe Nolan’s most daring film yet as it combines stunning visuals and a puzzling story with a solid family dynamic. Nolan borrowed many thematic elements from 2001: A Space Odyssey. For instance, he pays homage to the black monolith and computer HAL from 2001: A Space Odyssey. Nowadays, it is rare to see a three hour movie, like Interstellar, but most critics are not complaining. A few have not been in love with the film like Joe McGovern of Entertainment Weekly, who gave the film a B- rating. [23] However, most of the other reviews have been more positive as the film currently holds a 9.0 rating on IMDB. [24]

Paramount is only handling the domestic release of Interstellar, while Warner Bros. takes care of the international distribution. [25] It grossed $61,837,040 domestically in its opening weekend, but a whopping $144,737,040 worldwide, which nearly surpassed its $165 million budget. By its second week in theaters, Interstellar grossed over $300 million ($321.9 million to be exact) globally. [26] Domestically in its second week, it made $29.2 million, for a domestic total of $97.8 million as it fell 39%. Over the weekend, it crossed the $500 million mark worldwide. [27]

In Other News

In 2014, Paramount Pictures became the first major studio to distribute all its content digitally. Also, Paramount has created a new website that enables people to stream movies right from its site so it can funnel money directly back into corporate headquarters, rather than dealing with websites like Amazon Prime. [28]

In addition, Paramount has been in a tireless legal battle with investors who claim they never received their money back from projects such as Mean Girls and The Manchurian Candidate. The investors are suing to get back $40 million of their investment. The court concluded that Paramount is off the hook and not responsible. [29]

Looking Forward:

Unlike the fall season, Paramount’s winter film slate will be much busier with the releases of highly anticipated films, The Gambler (2014), Top Five, and The Spongebob Movie: Sponge Out Of Water.

The Gambler (2014) Trailer [30]

The Gambler (2014) is Mark Wahlberg‘s latest film, in which his character, Jim Bennett, borrows money from a gangster and puts his life up as collateral. It is a remake of the 1974 film of the same name. [31]

Top Five Trailer [32]

Top Five is a comedy film written and directed by Chris Rock. It has a planned release date of December 12th, 2014. It currently holds a stellar 92% approval rating on Rotten Tomatoes. [33]

The Spongebob Movie: Sponge Out Of Water Trailer [34]

The Spongebob Movie: Sponge Out Of Water is planned to be one of Paramount’s biggest hits of the winter, as it will attract young fans and older fans who grew up viewing the television show.

Paramount’s future appears promising with the other releases of Selma, Hot Tub Time Machine 2, and Project Almanac, which will be presented in a found footage style. [35] Selma is expected to generate much Oscar talk.

Sources:

[1] Paramount Logo, Paramount.com, RT: 11/10/14

[2] Paramount Contact Information, Paramount.com, RT: 11/12/14

[3] Film Franchises, Paramount.com, RT: 11/12/14

[4] “Viacom To Announce Deal To Purchase Paramount”, The New York Times, 9/12/93, RT: 11/12/14

[5] Key Executives, Paramount.com, RT: 11/10/14

[6] Paramount Revenue, Boxofficemojo.com, RT: 11/08/14

[7] New Business Model, The New York Times, 12/22/13, RT: 11/09/14

[8] Transformers: Age of Extinction Poster, IMDB, RT: 11/08/14

[9] Transformers: Age of Extinction Review, Rotten Tomatoes, RT: 11/11/14

[10] Transformers: Age of Extinction in China, Deadline.com, 8/3/14, RT: 11/12/14

[11] Michelangelo Photo, Screenrant.com, RT: 11/07/14

[12] Teenage Mutant Ninja Turtles, IMDB, RT: 11/09/14

[13] “Ninja Turtles Cracks $400 Million”, Variety.com, 11/02/14, RT: 11/10/14

[14] Teenage Mutant Ninja Turtles Sequel Announced, Variety.com, 8/10/14, RT: 11/11/14

[15] “Adam Sandler Leads Sexually Charged Dramedy”, The New York Post, 9/30/14, RT: 11/10/14

[16] Men, Women, & Children Summary, Time.com, RT: 11/10/14

[17] Men, Women, & Children Flop, Thewrap.com, RT: 11/11/14

[18] Men, Women, & Children Rating, Rotten Tomatoes, RT: 11/12/14

[19] Adam Sandler Box Office, The New York Times, 9/30/14, RT: 11/09/14

[20] Justin Chang, Variety.com, 09/06/14, RT: 11/10/14

[21] Interstellar Photo, Hollywoodreporter.com, RT: 11/11/14

[22] Interstellar Info, RogerEbert.com, RT: 11/16/14

[23] Joe McGovern, Entertainment Weekly, 11/19/14, RT: 11/19/14

[24] Interstellar Rating, IMDB, RT: 11/19/14

[25] Interstellar Distribution, Variety.com, 11/16/14, RT: 11/19/14

[26] Interstellar Box Office, Boxofficemojo.com, RT: 11/20/14

[27] Interstellar’s Splash, Deadline.com, RT: 11/21/14

[28] Paramount Streaming Service, Theverge.com, RT: 11/06/14

[29] “Paramount Pictures, Movie Investors in Mean Fight”, The Wall Street Journal, 10/26/14, RT: 11/18/14

[30] The Gambler (2014) Trailer, Youtube.com, RT: 11/18/14

[31] The Gambler (2014), IMDB, RT: 11/18/14

[32] Top Five Trailer, Youtube.com, RT: 11/18/14

[33] Top Five Rating, Rotten Tomatoes, RT: 11/18/14

[34] The Spongebob Movie: Sponge Out Of Water Trailer, Youtube.com, RT: 11/17/14

[35] Paramount Future Releases, Deadline.com, RT: 11/10/14

Viacom

Posted on April 18, 2014 by Samantha Mackoff

By Sam Mackoff

[1] Viacom Logo

ABOUT VIACOM

Viacom, short for Video and Audio Communications, is a mass media company that produces content globally across television, movies, online and mobile platforms. Viacom’s media networks reach about 700 million global subscribers, making it one of the world’s largest media conglomerate [2]. Viacom operates about 170 leading entertainment brands including MTV Networks, VH1, BET Networks, Comedy Central, CMT, SPIKE, Nickelodeon Networks, Paramount Pictures and more [3].

Television Networks

[4] Viacom’s Media Brands

Viacom has a large variety of networks that represent a diverse collection of programming. From Nickelodeon, the leading brand in children’s entertainment, to Comedy Central, the number one brand in comedic television, Viacom continues to produce original content that is relevant to all different audience members [4]. Some of Viacom’s leading shows are Nickelodeon’s SpongeBob SquarePants, MTV’s Teen Wolf and Awkward, Comedy Central’s South Park and many more [5].

Film

[6] Paramount Pictures Logo

Paramount Pictures Corporation is a production and distribution studio for film. It is a subsidiary of Viacom. Paramount distributes content from DreamWorks Animation, Paramount Pictures, Paramount Vantage, Paramount Classics, Marvel Studios, MTV Films and Nickelodeon Movies [4]. Paramount is ranked as the fourth highest grossing film distributor [7]. Some of Paramount’s notable films are, “Transformers”, “Indiana Jones”, “Star Trek”, “Titanic”, and “Forrest Gump” [8].

FINANCIALS

Viacom is a publicly held. This year, Viacom did well financially with its media networks revenue, but did not do well financially in film entertainment. The media networks revenue had a $462 million increase to $9.7 billion by the end of 2013 [9]. The film entertainment revenues had a $538 million decrease from the previous year to $4.3 billion by the end of 2013 [9]. Viacom’s net earnings still increased 2% from 2012 to 2013, from $2.3 billion in 2012 to $2.4 billion in 2013 [9].

KEY EXECUTIVES

[10] Philippe Dauman,
President and Chief Executive Officer

[11] Thomas E. Dooley,
Chief Operating Officer

RECENT NEWS
Viacom and Google Call a Truce

[12] Google Vs. Viacom

After seven years of battling in court, Viacom and Google have settled the copyright infringement lawsuit, in which neither company exchanged money to the other. Viacom filed a $1 billion lawsuit in 2007 against YouTube, which is owned by Google, stating that there were billions of dollars in damages for copyright infringement by uploading unauthorized clips from Viacom programming. After years of arguing, Viacom and YouTube released a settlement statement saying, “This settlement reflects the growing collaborative dialogue between our two companies on important opportunities, and we look forward to working more closely together” [13].

Viacom Teams Up with Tumblr

[14] Tumblr and Viacom Partnership

Viacom announced an exclusive partnership with the popular blogging website, Tumblr. The two companies together will offer co-branded campaigns and content for shows and events for Viacom’s networks through the 2014 Upfront Season. This partnership marks Viacom as the first television programmer to develop a marketing partnership with Tumblr. Viacom’s partnership with Tumblr creates a unique opportunity for Viacom to use this creative platform with its advertisers in order to reach a large audience because of its major social activity. On the consumer end, it allows users to view content in a fun and interactive way [15].

RELEASES

[16] “The Wolf of Wall Street”, directed by Martin Scorsese

The Wolf of Wall Street

The dark comedy, “The Wolf of Wall Street”, directed by Martin Scorsese and starring Leonardo DiCaprio, is based on the true story of Jordan Belfort’s life. The film takes you through the New York stockbroker’s journey from rags to riches, starting in penny stocks to running an extremely successful firm. This film has had major success worldwide. The high admiration has earned the film a Golden Globe and five Academy Award nominations [17]. Surpassing all Christmas sales in theaters on its holiday release date [18], the film made $10 million on its opening day and over $18 million on its opening weekend [19]. This film has accumulated grosses of $116.9 million domestically and $272.7 million in the foreign market [19].

[20] “Noah”, directed by Darren Aronofsky

Noah

The recent release of the biblical inspired film, “Noah”, directed by Darren Aronofsky and starring Russell Crowe, is inspired by the biblical story of Noah’s Ark. Noah is chosen by God to take on a mission to rescue the innocent before an apocalyptic flood hits the world. This film ranked #1 at the box office on its opening weekend on March 28^th [21]. “Noah” brought in a diverse audience including men and women of all ages that were Christian, Catholic Latino and African American [22]. “Noah” has faced a sizable decline with a 68% drop since its release [23]. Predictions say that this number will increase during the weekend of Easter because of the faith based audience [24]. “Noah” has made $93.3 million domestically and $197.4 million in the foreign market [21].

UPCOMING RELEASES

Nickelodeon Introduces a New Awards Show

8-Kids-Choice-Sports-Awards-2014-350x348

[25] Michael Strahan, Future Host of Kids Choice Sports

Nickelodeon announced a new award show called Kids Choice Sports, hosted by former football player, Michael Strahan, set to debut this summer. Kids Choice Sports give viewers the opportunity to have a voice in the show by voting for their favorite teams, players and sports moments as well as selecting the stars to get slimed. In additions to the awards, the event will also have a musical performance, competitions against athletes and slimed filled sports stunts [26]. Kids Choice Sports has the potential to bring in a whole new audience of parents and children who are interested in sports, as well as other viewers who want to be a part of the additional events of the awards show.

Candid Camera Returns After 66 Years

: [27] Allen Funt, the Original Host of Candid Camera

TV Land announced that it is bringing back a new version of the 1940’s show, Candid Camera. Candid Camera is a show that captures the reactions of people in unusual situations using hidden cameras. Peter Funt, the son of the host and creator of the original show, will be co-producing Candid Camera. There are 10 new episodes that are set to air this summer [28].

Transformers To Release Fourth Film

The fourth Transformers film called, “Transformers: Age of Extinction”, is hitting the theater this summer. This film was directed by Michael Bay and has notable actors staring in it such as Mark Wahlberg, Nicola Peltz, and Jack Reynor [29]. This popular franchise has earned $2.6 billion in the global box office. The bar for this film was set very high after the last film, “Transformers: Dark of the Moon”, earning $1.1 billion globally. This film is set to release June 27^th [30].

Trailer [31]

Teenage Mutant Ninja Turtles Recreated in a Live Action Film

“Teenage Mutant Ninja Turtles” is returning to the screen in a live action film this summer. Producer Michael Bay and director Jonathan Liesmasman, are working together to recreate the story that was originally based off of a comic series [32]. Rob Moore, vice chairman of Paramount said, “Michael Bay is committed to making sure young audiences have a reason to flock back to your theaters” [33]. This action comedy film is about four trained ninja turtles that work together to fight off evil. This summer blockbuster, starring Megan Fox, Noel Fisher, Will Arnet, Jeremy Howard and Alan Ritchso, is set to release August 8^th [32].

Trailer [34]

Sources

[1] Viacom’s Logo, Adweek.com, RT: 4/18/2014

[2] About Viacom, Viacom.com, RT: 4/18/2014

[3] “Viacom: Veteran Leading the Way”, Investing Daily, 12/31/2013, RT: 4/17/2014

[4] Viacom Brands, Viacom.com, RT: 4/18/2014

[5] Most Popular TV Shows, TV.com, RT: 4/18/2014

[6] Paramount Pictures Logo, Nickelodeon.Wikia.com, RT: 4/18/14

[7] Leading Distributors- 1995-2014, The-Numbers.com, RT: 4/18/2014

[8] Paramount All Time Box Office Results, BoxOfficeMojo.com, RT: 4/18/2014

[9] Viacom Inc.- Annual Report, Viacom.com, RT: 4/19/2014

[10] Philippe Dauman, Trialx.com, RT: 4/19/2014

[11] Thomas E. Dooley, CNN.com, RT: 4/19/2014

[13] “Google and Viacom Settle Copyright-Infringement Lawsuit over YouTube”, Variety, 3/18/2014, RT: 4/19/2014

[14] Viacom and Tumblr, YourNewSticker.com, RT: 4/19/2014

[15] “Yahoo’s Tumblr First TV Ad Deal Is with Viacom”, Variety, 3/20/2014, RT: 4/19/2014

[16] Wolf of Wall Street Poster, UBCFilmSociety.com, RT: 4/19/2014

[17] Wolf of Wall Street Awards, IMDB.com, RT: 4/19/2014

[18] “‘Wolf of Wall Street’ Poised for No. 1 at Christmas Box Office with $10 Million”, Variety, 12/25/13, RT: 4/19/14

[19] Box Office Results, BoxOfficeMojo.com, RT: 4/19/2014

[20] Noah Poster, MovieFanatic.com, RT: 4/19/2014

[21] Box Office Results, BoxOfficeMojo.com, RT: 4/19/14

[22] “‘Noah’ sails to estimated $44-Million Opening at Box Office”, Los Angeles Times, 3/30/2014, RT: 4/19/14

[23] “North America: ‘Captain America: The Winter Soldier’ Sets New April Record with $96.2M”, BoxOffice.com, 4/6/14, RT: 4/19/14

[24] “‘Heaven is for Real’ Posts Strong Opening Day Returns”, BoxOffice.com, 4/17/14, RT: 4/19/2014

[25] Kids Choice Sports Picture, TVByTheNumbers.zap2it.com, RT: 4/20/14

[26] “Nick Launching Sports Award Show”, BigStory.ap.org, 3/13/214, RT: 4/20/14

[27] Allen Funt, rtvfmediastudies.tcu.edu, RT: 4/20/14

[28] “Candid Camera: TV Land Reviving Classic Series for Summer”, TVSeriesFinale.com, 4/9/14, RT: 4/20/14

[29] Transformers Cast and Crew, IMDB.com, RT: 4/20/14

[30] “‘Transformers: Age of Extinction’ to Kick Start New Trilogy”, Variety, 4/11/14, RT: 4/20/14

[31] Transformers: Age of Extinction Trailer, Youtube, 3/5/2014, RT: 4/20/2014

[32] Teenage Mutant Ninja Turtles Cast and Crew, IMDB.com, RT: 4/20/14

[33] “Paramount Kicks Off CinemaCon With ‘Ninja Turtles,’ ‘Transformers’ Footage”, Variety, 3/24/14, RT: 4/20/14

[34] Teenage Mutant Ninja Turtle Trailer, Youtube, 3/27/2014, RT: 4/20/2014

20th Century Fox

Posted on March 15, 2014 by Zhihao He

By Jackie He

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

20^thCentury 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; 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; 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]

Paramount Pictures

Posted on October 28, 2013 by Patrick Flanagan

By Pat Flanagan

courtesy of Paramount Pictures

PARAMOUNT PICTURES
5555 Melrose Ave, Los Angeles, CA
www.paramount.com

KEY EXECUTIVES

Brad Grey
courtesy of The Hollywood Reporter

Brad Grey is the Chairman and Chief Executive Officer at Paramount Pictures since 2005. Grey has won Academy Awards as producer for many films such as The Departed and Charlie and the Chocolate Factory. Under Grey’s tenure Paramount released some of their highest grossing films of all time such as Transformers, Indiana Jones, and the Paranormal Activity franchises. [1]

Rob Moore courtesy of The Hollywood Reporter

Rob Moore has been the Vice Chairman since 2008. He previously worked at the Walt Disney Company for 13 years as Senior Financial Analyst and was later appointed Executive Vice President of Finance and Operations. [2]

Frederick Huntsberry courtesy of Paramount.com

Frederick Huntsberry has been the Chief Operating Officer since 2006. His previous work includes different positions in the Finance and Business Development at Universal Studios. He was the President of NBC Universal Television Distribution. [3]

Adam Goodman courtesy of thezog.info

Adam Goodman is the President of Paramount Film Group since June 2009. He previously served as President of Production. He also was the President of Production at Dreamworks Studio. Some of his work that he is credited for includes Flight, Super 8, and True Grit. After the success with the Paranormal Activity franchise Goodman created Paramount’s micro-budget division called Insurge Pictures which distributed successful films like Justin Beiber: Never Say Never, Jackass 3D and Katy Perry: Part Of Me. [4]

BREIF HISTORY

In 1912 Adolph Zukor founded the Famous Players Film Company that would later be called Paramount Pictures Inc. Paramount is the is the longest functioning and only major studio that remains in Hollywood. With remarkable talent and executives Paramount was a leader in the entertainment industry from very early on. The company won their first Academy Award in 1927 for Best Picture, just one year after moving to their present studio lot. They pride themselves with the highest grossing movie of all time, Titanic. In 2011 Paramount broke a record in the film industry with six consecutive films bringing each bringing in a revenue over $100 million dollars at the box office. Last year marked Paramount’s 100^th year in the entertainment industry. Media conglomerate Viacom owns Paramount Pictures. [4][5]

FINANCIALS

So far this year Paramount Pictures released 7 movies, with a $810 million dollar yearly gross. It is ranked number 6 behind Warner Bros, Universal, Buena Vista, Sony/Columbia, and 20^th Century Fox. As of November 2013, Paramount has a 8.9% market share, already surpassing 2012’s results when Paramount was ranked number 7 with a 8.4% market share, a gross difference of $106 million dollars. After several quarters of declining revenue, Paramount Pictures had the best quarter yet with an 11% increase in revenue. Star Trek Into Darkness is Paramount’s most successful movie of 2013, followed by World War Z and G.I. Joe: Retaliation. With the anticipation of Anchorman 2: The Legend Continues, coming out December 20^th, it will be interesting to see if Paramount can climb the ranks and place top 5. [6][7][8][9]

RECENT NEWS

MV5BMTg4NjIwMTI5OV5BMl5BanBnXkFtZTgwNjU1MTMyMDE@._V1_SY317_CR1,0,214,317_

courtesy of Paramount Pictures

Jackass Presents: Bad Grandpa was the only film Paramount released this fall. It has brought in $90 million from a $15 million dollar budget. The lighthearted comedy impressed moviegoers, surpassing popular films such as Gravity and Captain Phillips in box office results.

courtesy of fandango.com

Paramount tried something different this Fall. From August 30^th-September 5^th Paramount combined Star Trek Into Darkness and World War Z into a double feature where moviegoers would be able to see these two films for the price of one in select AMC theaters. This is the first time a studio has done this. [10] [11]

MV5BMjE5ODk0NjQzNV5BMl5BanBnXkFtZTgwODk4MDA1MDE@._V1_SX214_

courtesy of Paramount Pictures

Anchorman 2: The Legend Continues is Paramount’s most anticipated movie of 2013 will be released on December 20th. Paramount is coming out with very classy and creative marketing and promotional ideas for this upcoming film. [12]

For instance, Paramount Pictures is teaming up with Dodge Brand in a humorous promotion contest for Anchorman 2. Fans will be able to win an all-new 2014 Dodge Durango by going to funnyordie.com to play “Hands on Ron Burgundy”. This contest tests fan’s endurance and perseverance to see how many times they can touch Ron Burgundy. The fan who lasts the longest in one session wins a new car with about a hundred additional prizes for those who place close. [13] [14]

Also, Paramount is allowing fans to see Anchorman 2 two days before the December 20th release date. They announced that special “supertickets” will be available on November 26th. Paramount is expanding on their promotional idea done with World War Z’s “megaticket” that viewers bought for $50 to see the film 2 days before national release, available in 5 U.S. cities. [15]

Looking at the Future

MV5BMTcyNzk4Nzg4N15BMl5BanBnXkFtZTgwMTkxMDI2MDE@._V1_SY317_CR0,0,214,317_

courtesy of Paramount Pictures

Paramount is scheduled to release Noah in March 2014, about the biblical story of Noah and his arc. Hollywood has been on a popular biblical trend as seen the History Channel’s television series The Bible and other upcoming movies like Ridley Scott’s Exodus. Noah is directed by Darren Aronofsky and includes an all-star cast such as Russell Crowe, Emma Watson, Jennifer Connelly and Anthony Hopkins. [16]

On November 14 The Hollywood Reporter broke the news that Paramount Pictures is in development on a number of sequels that in Mission Impossible, World War Z, Star Trek and G.I.Joe. [17]

David Chase courtesy of imbd.co

David Chase The Sopranos director, sold Paramount Pictures the script of Little Black Dress. Thumbnail: While working a potentially lethal investigation at a post-war job, she gets involved with a superstitious NYPD detective who helps bring her back from a personal precipice. This film is in the developmental stage. [18] [19]

Recently, Paramount has expressed disappointment regarding California’s tax incentives to bring film productions back to Hollywood. The Los Angeles Mayor promised to “storm” Sacramento to bring about a greater annual Film/TV Tax Credit program. Paramounts Studio Group President, Randy Baumberger was quoted saying:

“virtually no feature films are shot in LA anymore. What producers need are commitment and consistency. What producers are looking for is to be able to plan out 3 or 4 years”. [20]

Works Cited

[1] About Brad Grey

[2] About Rob Moore

[3] About Frederick Huntsberry

[4] History of Paramount Pictures

[5] Paramount marks 100 years

[6] 2013 Studio Market Share

[7] Box Office results of all time

[8] WSJ reporting on Viacom’s success

[9] Paramount’s Financial Report

[10] About Jackass Presents: Bad Grandpa

[11] Bad Grandpa triumphs over Gravity

[12] Anchorman 2 anticipation

[13] Dodge and Paramount team up

[14] Youtube video of contest

[15] Paramount tries double feature

[16] Noah film to star big name cast

[17] Sequels announced

[18] The Sopranos director gives script to Paramount

[19] IMDB on David Chase

[20] Paramount Blasts Cali’s “Incremental” Film/TV Tax Credit Program

20th Century Fox

Posted on April 9, 2013 by Rebecca Drootin

Twentieth Century Fox Film Corp

10201 West Pico Boulevard,
Los Angeles, California 90035

Mail: P.O. Box 900,
Beverly Hills, California 90213
Phone: 310-277-2211
Fax: 310-203-1558
www.foxmovies.com [1]

20th Century Fox’s iconic logo.

Summary:

20th Century Fox is a film production and distribution company under Fox Entertainment

Recent Best Picture winner, Life of Pi, is a 20th Century Fox film.

Group which is a part of the media conglomerate, News Corporation. The company releases about 14 films a year many of which have been very successful [1]. 20th Century Fox formed in 1935 and has been one of the top film studios for almost a hundred years [2]. The subsidiary companies to 20th Century Fox include Fox 2000 Pictures, Fox Searchlight Pictures, Fox International Pictures, Twentieth Century Fox Animation and Blue Sky Studios [1]. 20th Century Fox is most notably responsible for James Cameron’s films Avatar and Titanic as well as classics such as the Star Wars series, Home Alone, the Ice Age series, Independence Day, The Sound of Music, Butch Cassidy and the Sundance Kid, and hundreds more [4].

Fox Searchlight’s logo

Fox Searchlight is a speciality division under 20th Century Fox. The company tends to release smaller budget, niche-genre films. Many of Fox Searchlight’s films have earned Academy Award nominations and wins such as Little Miss Sunshine, Juno, Slumdog Millionaire, The Descendants, and Black Swan [4].

Executives [15]

Rupert Murdoch

Chris Petrikin- Executive Vice President, Global Communications
Rupert Murdoch- Chairman of the Board and Chief Executive Officer
Robert Marick- Executive Vice President
Ricardo Crespo- Senior Vice President of Global Creative
Thomas E. Rothman- Board Member
Robert Harpe- Board Member
James Gianopulos- Board Member

Financial Information

News Corp’s current share price is $30.9 up 36.6% from 19.58 at this time last year. Their revenue for the year 2012 was $34.33 billion a 2% increase from their 2011 revenue of $33.4 billion [3].

This graph represents the share price of News Corp stock since 2008 [9].

20th Century Fox is currently number 4 in the market, holding an 11.7% share. It has grossed $256.9 million. Compared to its position in April of 2012, it is down $40 million in revenue, with the same amount of films released. In 2012, they finished 6th in the market with a 9.5% share, releasing 15 films. 2012 was a successful year, having increased profits from 2011 by 4.9%, up from $977 million to $1 billion [4].

Fox Searchlight is currently 16th in the market with a .2% of the market share. It has currently grossed $4.5 million at the box office with the release of 4 films so far this year. Searchlight finished 2012 grossing $117.8 million, down 22.7% from the 2011 gross of $152.4 million. For 2012, Fox Searchlight was 12th in the market a slight decline from their 2011 position of 11th in the market. In 2012 they released 10 movies and in 2011 they released 11, most likely causing the decline in profits [4].

Competitors

The Weinstein Company is independently owned unlike most studios that fall under a media conglomerate.

20th Century Fox competes most closely with the five other major studios (Columbia Pictures, Warner Bros, Disney, Universal, and Paramount.) Universal is currently number one in the market, followed by the Weinstein Company, and Buena Vista. Universal has only released 2 films so far this year, one being the successful film, Identity Theif, and have still been experiencing profits from their late 2012 releases including the award winner Les Miserables. Beuna Vista released the high grossing, Oz The Great and Powerful. The recent wild success of the Weinstein Company has caused it to become more comprable in profits to 20th Century Fox than to Fox Searchlight though they release similar types of films. This has largely been due to their award winning films Django Unchained and Silver Linings Playbook. 20th Century Fox has held a high position in the market due to the success of The Croods. Other 2013 releases inclue Broken City and A Good Day to Die Hard [4].

Recent News

After a phone hacking scandal in 2011 and increased pressure from shareholders, News Corp will be splitting into two separate companies mid-2013. 20th Century Fox and all other Fox brands will become a part of a new company titled Fox Group. The publishing side of the company will remain News Corporation. Fox Group is slated to be led by Chase Carey, president and chief operating officer, Rupert Murdoch, chief executive and chairman, and James Murdoch, who will serve as the deputy chief operating officer [6]. Due to this split, 20th Century Fox’s co-chairman Tom Rothman will be resigning, leaving co-chairman, Jim Gianopolus, to lead the entire film division [11].

The 2013 release of The Croods has been notable for more than just its success at the box office. The film is the first to be released under DreamWorks Animation and 20th Century Fox’s new partnership. Formerly, DreamWorks films were distributed by Paramount but the two companies ended this agreement late last year. This new deal has been very profitable for 20th Century Fox, as The Croods grossed $44.7 million in its opening weekend alone [7].

20th Century Fox and Blue Sky Studios are currently preparing for the release of the film Epic. Director, Chris Wedge, known for the Ice Age films, claims that Epic shows both technological advancement and genre evolution for Blue Sky [12]. The companies are heavily promoting the film that is set to release in May. Teaming up with Rite-Aid, the film will be an official charity partner of Children’s Miracle Network Hospitals [13].

20th Century Fox is taking initiative to lead the industry in the new medium of digital media. In September, the Home Entertainment division decided

to release digital copies of the film Prometheus three weeks before the DVD and Blu-ray release. In attempt to make online films more accessible and affordable, the company is also moving to dispel online piracy. 20th Century Fox is the first of the major studios to place such high importance on the release of digital content, calling the initiative Digital HD. Fox will release all recent films on Digital HD in addition to the effort to have over 600 Fox titles available on other digital platforms [8]. 20th Century Fox as well as other studios are currently in a prolonged legal battle with Google due to online piracy issues. The companies are requesting Google to remove links to pirated content but Google is responding by publishing the requests from these companies with direct links to the pirated content. This phenomenon is being called “copyright irony.” [14]

Fox Searchlight recently announced that it will be releasing the upcoming film, Twelve Years A Slave, rather than the parent company 20th Century Fox. The Steve McQueen film features Brad Pitt, Benedict Cumberbatch, and the young Quvenzhane Wallis. It will premier in December [10]. Fox Searchlight currently has two films in theaters: Danny Boyle’s thriller Trance and Chan-wook Park’s Stoker which experienced festival success [10].

Sources:

[1] http://www.newscorp.com/management/20film.html

[2] http://www.cobbles.com/simpp_archive/zanuck-schenck.htm

[3] http://finance.yahoo.com/q/ks?s=NWS+Key+Statistics

[4] http://www.boxofficemojo.com/studios

[5] TRF 235 Lecture Notes: Barbara Jones, Class 2

[6] http://mediadecoder.blogs.nytimes.com/2012/12/03/news-corp-announces-its-corporate-split-and-the-closing-of-the-daily/

[7] http://www.nytimes.com/2013/03/25/movies/the-croods-and-olympus-has-fallen-lead-the-box-office.html?_r=2&

[8] http://adage.com/article/cmo-strategy/20th-century-fox-s-mary-daily-taking-digital-lead/238751/

[9] http://finance.yahoo.com/echarts?s=NWS+Interactive#symbol=nws;range=20080103,20130401;compare=;indicator=volume;charttype=area;crosshair=on;ohlcvalues=0;logscale=off;source=undefined;

[10] www.foxsearchlight.com

[11] http://www.medialifemagazine.com/people-9-17-12/

[12] http://www.comingsoon.net/news/movienews.php?id=101806

[13] http://www.digitaljournal.com/pr/1149205

[14] http://businessofcinema.com/hollywood/twentieth-century-fox-and-others-in-piracy-battle-with-google/71643

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

Photos

1.http://www.foxstudios.com/data/image/teasers/category_bg_home.jpg

2.https://twimg0-a.akamaihd.net/profile_images/495817344/FoxLogo_FanfareVersion.jpg

3.http://www.impawards.com/2012/posters/life_of_pi.jpg

4.http://www.foxsearchlight.com/media/blog_post_images/fsl_logo2.jpg

5. http://www.mediabistro.com/fishbowldc/files/2010/09/rupert-murdoch.jpg

6. http://cdn.pastemagazine.com/www/articles/2010/11/19/weinstein.jpg?1290168446

7. http://ia.media-imdb.com/images/M/MV5BODU3NzI5ODc1NV5BMl5BanBnXkFtZTcwODQ2NDU1OA@@._V1_SX214_.jpg

8. http://www.wired.com/images_blogs/threatlevel/2011/09/FBI_Anti-Piracy_Warning.jpeg

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