The Town with Matthew Belloni

In this engaging conversation, Michael Wolff, a seasoned journalist and author known for his incisive profiles, shares insights from his recent piece on David Zaslav, the CEO of Warner Bros. Discovery. They explore the challenges Zaslav faces in a rapidly evolving media landscape, from navigating traditional values while adapting to digital demands to the impact of consolidation on creativity. The duo also discusses the implications of high-profile legal disputes, shedding light on the changing role of media moguls in 2025.

Lucas Shaw, Bloomberg's media analyst with expertise in entertainment and financial trends, joins to dissect the impact of Trump tariffs on Hollywood. They explore how smaller media companies face greater risks amid advertising volatility. Major players like Disney and Fox are dissected for their vulnerabilities, while the duo discusses rising production costs and shifting consumer preferences. Shaw also delves into the upcoming UK version of 'Saturday Night Live', questioning its likelihood of success due to cultural differences.

Dave Brooks, Senior Director of Touring at Billboard, dives into the evolving landscape of music festivals with Matt. They dissect Coachella's recent struggles with ticket sales and affordability. Brooks shares insights on how festival economics are shifting and highlights rising festivals challenging the hierarchy. The conversation also touches on how artists are adapting their strategies, utilizing festivals for branding, and addressing the influence of nostalgia on audiences. Plus, they touch on changes in award recognition, including a potential stunt category at the Oscars.

Eli Roth, director and founder of The Horror Section, dives into his innovative horror media company that lets fans invest in and share profits from indie horror films. He explains how this unique crowdfunding model enhances community involvement and creative freedom. The conversation highlights the wild incentives for investors, including the chance to be killed on-screen! Roth also discusses challenges in maintaining control over projects and the evolving strategies in horror filmmaking, making it a thrilling listen for any horror enthusiast.

Lucas Shaw, a Bloomberg reporter focusing on the entertainment industry, joins to dive into the surprise success of the 'Minecraft Movie,' which raked in $163 million domestically. They discuss how social media has propelled the film's popularity and the shifts in Hollywood's approach to intellectual property. Shaw highlights the potential of video game adaptations as a goldmine for engaging younger audiences, while addressing the challenges studios face with balancing new ideas and established franchises in an ever-evolving cinematic landscape.

Sean Fennessey and Amanda Dobbins from The Ringer dive into their thrilling CinemaCon experience. They discuss the impressive use of live orchestras in studio presentations, spotlighting Universal's engaging showcase. The duo analyzes the bold strategies of major directors like Christopher Nolan amid a competitive landscape. They share skepticism over studio challenges with upcoming releases and reflect on quirky trends like Lionsgate’s horror films and Netflix’s marketing plans, all while keeping the tone light and fun!

Jon Liebman, CEO of Brillstein Entertainment Partners, shares insights into the evolving roles of agents and managers in Hollywood. He discusses the significant differences between the two and how private equity is reshaping talent representation. The conversation also delves into CAA's recent lawsuit and the implications of ending packaging agreements on TV agencies. Additionally, they explore the dynamic changes at major firms like WME and UTA, and Liebman offers valuable advice for newcomers in the industry.

In a compelling conversation, Eduardo Acuna, CEO of Regal Cineworld, joins filmmaker Joseph Kosinski, NBCUniversal's Peter Levinsohn, and Neon’s Tom Quinn to tackle Hollywood's theatrical crisis. They discuss the urgent need to engage younger audiences and the impact of streaming on movie perceptions. The group also debates release windows, profitability strategies, and the necessity for high-quality cinema experiences. With insights into revitalizing the moviegoing experience, they explore what it takes to draw people back to theaters in a post-pandemic world.

In this discussion, the Entertainment Strategy Guy, a seasoned data analyst and former streaming executive, joins Matt to dissect the impact of Jen Salke's leadership at Amazon MGM Studios. They analyze the successes and failures of shows like 'The Boys' and 'Rings of Power,' while questioning the baffling renewal of the lackluster 'Citadel.' The conversation shifts to Amazon's struggle with reality programming and the strategic challenges in film production, setting the stage for predictions about Salke's successor.

Andrew Yaffe, CEO of Dude Perfect and a former content operations executive at the NBA, discusses YouTube's surge as a powerhouse in entertainment. He delves into how YouTube creators are teaming up with traditional media, transforming the creator economy. Yaffe outlines the financial strategies behind top YouTube channels and the shift towards innovative partnerships in sports. The conversation also touches on the evolving relationship between digital creators and Hollywood, offering insights into the future of content creation and monetization.