The Ankler Podcast
Hollywood’s New Trick to Screw Writers
Jan 24, 2025
Katey Rich, an awards expert and journalist known for her Oscar predictions, joins the discussion on Hollywood's evolving landscape. They tackle the alarming rise of 'if-come' deals that leave writers unpaid unless their projects sell, creating a new era of 'involuntary servitude.' Katey shares insights into the recent Oscar nominations, adds excitement around Sundance, and reflects on Netflix's subscriber boom. The conversation reveals a troubling trend of unpaid work in an increasingly competitive industry.
36:30
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Quick takeaways
- The rise of 'If-come' deals is forcing writers to undertake extensive development work without guaranteed compensation, reflecting a troubling trend in Hollywood.
- Debates around Oscar nominations highlight the ongoing tensions between commercial success and artistic representation within the film industry.
Deep dives
Netflix's Subscriber Growth and Strategy
Netflix recorded significant subscriber growth, adding nearly 19 million subscribers in Q4, marking the largest quarterly increase in its history. This growth surpasses previous records, emphasizing their market dominance despite recent price hikes, with plans for a $25 monthly tier. Reports suggest that special events, such as NFL games and high-profile boxing matches, contributed to this surge, demonstrating the effectiveness of live content in attracting viewers. The company's shift toward focusing on strategic viewer engagement rather than just subscriber counts has raised questions about how other streaming services can compete.
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