Hollywood insider Franklin Leonard discusses the crisis in the entertainment industry, the impact of streaming services on TV and movies, challenges in monetizing viewing hours, issues of lack of representation, and the influence of private equity. The conversation highlights the need for redefining industry standards and supporting diverse global storytelling.
The entertainment industry faces crises due to declining box office numbers and fewer jobs post-pandemic.
The Black List founder challenges traditional norms by promoting fresh storytelling and reshaping careers in Hollywood.
Deep dives
Current Challenges in Hollywood
Hollywood is facing a series of challenges including declining box office numbers for 2024, reduced production of scripted TV series, and financial struggles for most streaming services except Netflix. The industry has lost a significant number of jobs post-pandemic, with employment levels remaining lower than before. Media companies are consolidating, leading to dominance by a few conglomerates in the TV and film sector.
Franklin Leonard's Impact with The Black List
Franklin Leonard, the founder of The Black List, has revolutionized Hollywood by highlighting top unproduced screenplays that later became award-winning films like Spotlight and The King's Speech. By championing these scripts and their writers, The Black List has reshaped careers in the industry and brought fresh storytelling to audiences. Leonard's unconventional thinking challenges traditional Hollywood norms, offering a new perspective on navigating the challenges within the industry.
Monetization Issues and Business Problems
Hollywood is struggling with monetizing content amidst increased competition for consumer attention from platforms like Instagram, TikTok, and video games. The shift towards streaming platforms, combined with the absence of ads and low subscription fees, has created financial difficulties. This transition has led to diminished revenue per viewer hour and challenges in creating sustainable profitability within the industry.
Writer Compensation and Industry Shifts
Significant changes in the compensation and working conditions for writers have impacted the quality and diversity of content in the industry. Traditional models of payment, including residuals and collaborative writing, have given way to upfront payments and decreased financial support for writers. The diminished focus on writers' contributions highlights a need to value their work more equitably to ensure a thriving and inclusive creative landscape in Hollywood.
A year after two historic Hollywood strikes, America’s entertainment industry is in crisis. Box-office numbers are way down, there are roughly 20% fewer jobs than before the pandemic, and just a handful of companies now control virtually everything we watch. Franklin Leonard, the founder of the Black List, is a Hollywood insider and an industry disrupter. He talks to guest host Sam Sanders about how TV and filmmaking need to change.
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