Peter Kafka and Lucas Shaw review the year in media, covering topics such as the impact of the strike, media consolidation, Amazon and Apple acquiring sports broadcasting rights, the decline of movie-going, Hollywood's response to TikTok, and their favorite media consumed this year.
The podcast discusses the impact of streaming on traditional media and explores potential strategies for success, including video game adaptations and the return of the bundle.
Reflecting on the past year, the podcast examines the challenges faced by the movie industry, the decline in theater attendance, and the potential of AI in content creation and consumption.
Deep dives
Podcast Episode Overview
In this podcast episode, the host reflects on the last episode of the podcast and announces its upcoming move to a new home with a new name. He expresses gratitude to the team members who have worked on the show and acknowledges the listeners for their support and feedback. The host then engages in a conversation with a guest about the year in media, focusing on topics such as the recent strike in the industry, the future of streaming, and the challenges and opportunities faced by Hollywood. They discuss the impact of streaming on traditional media and explore potential strategies for success, including video game adaptations and the return of the bundle. The conversation also touches on the state of moviegoing, the influence of TikTok and YouTube, and the role of AI in content creation and consumption. The episode concludes with some personal favorites and recommendations in music. Overall, this episode provides insights into the current state and future trends of the media and entertainment industry.
Reflection on the Last Episode and Future Plans
The podcast host acknowledges that this episode is the last one of the current podcast, but clarifies that the show will continue under a new name and home in the future. He expresses gratitude to the team members who have worked on the show and highlights the importance of the listeners' support. The host assures that the show will be accessible by subscribers on various podcast platforms. The focus then shifts to reflecting on the length of the podcast's run and the positive experiences gained during its production. The host mentions working with talented individuals and emphasizes the significance of feedback from the audience that has helped improve the show. The episode concludes with the anticipation of carrying the podcast forward into the following year.
Discussion on the Year in Media
In conversation with a guest, the podcast host reviews the major events and trends that shaped the media industry throughout the year. They begin by analyzing the impact of a lengthy strike that influenced streaming and entertainment companies. The host emphasizes the disruptive nature of streaming, exposing flaws in the system while also fostering creativity and change. They delve into the renegotiation of contracts and the adjustments made in the industry, citing increased writers' wages, changes in residual payments for streaming, and improved conditions for writers and actors. The discussion also touches on challenges faced by studios, the need for smarter spending and increased revenues, and the potential for consolidation within the industry. The conversation concludes by addressing the return of bundling and the significance of creating a user-friendly content discovery experience amidst the proliferation of platforms and the rise of TikTok and YouTube as competitors.
Outlook on Movie Industry and Cultural Shifts
The podcast episode explores the state of the movie industry and its response to evolving audience preferences. The podcast host highlights the decline in movie theater attendance and the impact of the pandemic on viewing habits. They discuss the success of certain films and the mixed results of relying on established franchises and new intellectual properties. The conversation explores the potential of video game adaptations and the growing role of AI in content creation and consumption. The discussion also touches on the cultural influence of YouTube and TikTok, noting the shift in cultural mindshare and the challenges this presents to traditional film and television. The episode concludes with personal insights into music recommendations and the future of the entertainment industry.
Peter Kafka, soon to be formerly of Vox, reviews the year in media with Bloomberg’s Lucas Shaw. What did we learn from the strikes? Is the bundle back? Are movies back? What’s going on with whatever the NBA is doing right now? And what’s up with Bob Iger saying he didn’t say something he definitely said on live TV?
This is the last episode of “Recode Media” in its current form, but stay subscribed to this feed! Peter and this show will be back with a new name and a new corporate daddy in 2024.
