The Town with Matthew Belloni cover image

The Town with Matthew Belloni

Latest episodes

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13 snips
Dec 9, 2024 • 33min

Winners and Losers of 2024 in Streaming

Lucas Shaw, a Bloomberg reporter specializing in media and entertainment, joins to dissect the shifting dynamics of streaming services in 2024. They identify the winners and losers, with Apple notably struggling while Peacock surprises with its strategic event tie-ins. Shaw highlights Spotify's impressive turnaround and discusses the competitive landscape among giants like Amazon and Netflix. The duo also anticipates the impact of upcoming award shows on viewer engagement and considers what makes a film a frontrunner for accolades this season.
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50 snips
Dec 7, 2024 • 34min

ESPN on Disney+, Cable’s Spinoff Moment, and Who Would Buy CNN?

Rich Greenfield, an analyst from LightShed Media, dives into Comcast's new spinoff and its ripple effects across the media landscape, particularly on major players like Disney and Warner Bros. Discovery. He discusses the declining relevance of traditional cable networks and how companies are strategizing around sports rights and digital transformation. The conversation touches on Disney's plans for ESPN's integration into their streaming service and the challenges surrounding waning NBA ratings amid fierce competition from the NFL.
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11 snips
Dec 6, 2024 • 33min

Equal Pay, Equal Stake: A Filmmaking Experiment

Clint Bentley and Greg Kwedar, renowned filmmakers behind 'Sing Sing' and 'Jockey,' delve into their revolutionary payment model where everyone on set, from actors to production assistants, earns the same rate. They explore the perks of equitable compensation in film, emphasizing transparency and collaboration among all contributors. Their discussion highlights how this model not only supports fair pay but also fosters a strong team mentality. Plus, they touch on Tom Cruise's legendary coconut cakes and predict possible Oscar nominations.
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18 snips
Dec 2, 2024 • 33min

Does Disney Have Its Movie Mojo Back?

Lucas Shaw, a Bloomberg reporter focused on media and entertainment, joins to discuss Disney's recent box office successes, including the record-breaking Thanksgiving weekend for 'Moana 2.' They analyze Disney's resurgence in theaters, debate the profitability of blockbusters versus smaller films, and consider the impact of social media on audience engagement. Shaw sheds light on Disney's strategic shifts, including transforming popular TV shows into movies. The conversation also delves into upcoming projects and the challenges Disney faces in capturing audience interest.
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17 snips
Nov 27, 2024 • 43min

‘Dune’ Director Denis Villeneuve on Plans for Part 3, ‘Star Wars’ Interest, and Art Vs. Commerce

Denis Villeneuve, the acclaimed Canadian director behind iconic films like Dune and Arrival, chats about his cinematic journey. He shares insights on balancing artistic vision with commercial demands in filmmaking. With a love for the original Star Wars, he discusses the allure of possibly directing one himself. Villeneuve dives into the challenges of adapting Dune, revealing how he navigated its complexity while aiming to preserve its essence, and reflects on the evolution of storytelling in both film and animation.
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Nov 25, 2024 • 42min

The Young Movie Star Draft

Lucas Shaw, a Bloomberg reporter known for his insights into Hollywood, joins for a lively discussion on drafting young movie stars under 35. They debate rising talents like Timothée Chalamet, Zendaya, and emerging actors such as Dominic Sessa. The conversation shifts to the changing dynamics of stardom, contrasting young stars’ prospects in film with the opportunities in TV. With humor and critical analysis, they explore what it takes to become the next box office sensation amid shifting industry trends.
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Nov 22, 2024 • 28min

‘Anora’ Actress Mikey Madison. Plus, ‘Wicked’ Vs. ‘Gladiator II’!

Actress Mikey Madison, known for her work in 'Better Things' and 'Once Upon a Time in Hollywood', dives into her journey with the striking film 'Anora' directed by Sean Baker. She reflects on the significance of mentorship and shares the thrill of embodying challenging roles. Madison also discusses her experiences with intense scenes and the emotional connections to props. The conversation shifts to a lively box office prediction segment, comparing the anticipated performance of 'Wicked: Part One' against 'Gladiator II'—a clash of genres and fan expectations.
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26 snips
Nov 20, 2024 • 42min

Secrets of the NBA-TNT Divorce Settlement With Bill Simmons

Join Bill Simmons, the founder of The Ringer, as he dissects the recent split between the NBA and Turner after a 30-year relationship. He reveals the dynamics behind the NBA's new partnerships with Disney and others, and the implications for Warner Bros. Discovery following the lawsuit settlement. Listen in as Simmons shares insights on the changing landscape of sports broadcasting, the future of 'Inside the NBA,' and the competition between traditional cable networks and streaming services in an evolving media world.
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Nov 19, 2024 • 33min

Disney’s Streaming Turnaround and Netflix’s Boxing Debut

Lucas Shaw, a Bloomberg reporter specializing in media and entertainment, joins to discuss Disney's profitability turnaround in streaming under Bob Iger's leadership. They explore strategic moves like cost reductions and an advertising tier that signal a brighter future for the company. Shaw also delves into Netflix's recent boxing debut featuring Jake Paul and Mike Tyson, highlighting the technical hiccups during the live broadcast. The conversation wraps up with insights into Conan O'Brien's potential impact on the upcoming Oscars ratings.
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11 snips
Nov 15, 2024 • 33min

Digital TV Giants: Amazon, Google, and … Roku?

Charlie Collier, President of Roku Media, shares insights on Roku's unique approach in the crowded streaming landscape dominated by giants like Amazon and Google. He discusses the potential resurgence of ad-supported television and the importance of original content in attracting viewers. Collier also reflects on his experiences at AMC and Fox, shedding light on the evolving metrics that define success in streaming. Plus, he offers a sneak peek into the lighter side of Hollywood, including how People Magazine chooses its Sexiest Man Alive.

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