The Town with Matthew Belloni

In this discussion, Lucas Shaw, a Bloomberg reporter specializing in media and entertainment, joins Matt to dissect Comcast's potential spin-off of its cable assets. They explore the struggles of legacy media companies against the rapid rise of streaming services and how Comcast is pivoting with its platform, Peacock. The conversation dives into the challenges of maintaining traditional cable networks, the irony of seeking non-cable revenue, and the possible need for partnerships to stay competitive. The duo wraps up with a cheeky look at shifting election viewership trends.

Tobias Queisser, CEO of Cinelytic, shares his insights on harnessing AI in Hollywood. He argues that AI is a valuable tool for studios, helping them make informed decisions about which films to green-light. The discussion highlights how predictive models can assess financial potential and project success while maintaining room for creativity. Tobias provides real-world examples, illustrating how AI can expedite script analysis and enhance financing strategies, revolutionizing the filmmaking process.

John Landgraf, CEO of FX and a key player in shaping contemporary television, joins Lucas Shaw to discuss the state of the industry. They dive into the challenges of FX's curation under Disney, the intricate development of 'Shogun', and the ups and downs of 'The Bear' Season 3. Landgraf sheds light on HBO's struggles, the shifting power dynamics in streaming, and the importance of integrating creativity and business. The conversation also explores the effects of algorithms on creative expression and the hunt for fresh voices in a rapidly evolving medium.

In this engaging discussion, FX Networks Chairman John Landgraf and Bloomberg's Lucas Shaw dive into the chaotic world of television. They explore the oversaturated market and how streaming platforms are influencing content quality. Landgraf shares insights on Silicon Valley's impact on the entertainment industry, urging a focus on quality storytelling amidst the chaos. They also revisit recent rankings of studios and streamers, debating their roles in shaping cinema in 2024—all while maintaining a captivating dialogue that highlights the changing landscape of media.

Bruce Eric Kaplan, a veteran TV writer known for his work on 'Girls' and 'Seinfeld', shares his journey through the changing landscape of screenwriting post-pandemic. He discusses the emotional struggles of getting projects sold in a hesitant industry and reflects on the shift from traditional networks to streaming services. Bruce also highlights the impact of the peak TV bubble and expresses cautious optimism for the future of creative storytelling. Plus, there's a fun take on upcoming box office hits like ‘Venom 3’!

Lucas Shaw, a Bloomberg reporter specializing in media and entertainment, joins to unpack Netflix's latest earnings report, revealing impressive subscriber growth but looming concerns about competition and advertising. They discuss Netflix's five pressure points, including the evolving strategies to counter competitors and the risk of overvaluation. The conversation also touches on Disney's delayed succession planning and how it could impact the industry landscape. Finally, predictions about viewership for the upcoming World Series offer an exciting sports angle.

Join James Andrew Miller, a renowned author and journalist specializing in Saturday Night Live, as he dives into the show's current season and its upcoming 50th anniversary. Explore how election seasons shape SNL's viewership and how budget cuts challenge its creative integrity. Hear about the pressures on cast members and the excitement of high-profile guests. Miller also reflects on the legacy of original cast members and the insightful documentary ‘Saturday Night,’ while sharing a fun box office prediction for 'Smile 2'!

Chris McGurk, CEO of Cineverse and a veteran of the film industry, discusses the explosive growth of indie horror films like 'Terrifier 3'. He shares marketing strategies that turn low-budget films into hits, including innovative tactics that build dedicated fanbases. The conversation touches on targeting Hispanic audiences and how AI is reshaping content discovery for independent filmmakers. McGurk also reveals insights on financing and the challenges indie studios face in a competitive market. Prepare for a thrilling dive into the indie horror phenomenon!

In this lively discussion, Lucas Shaw, a Bloomberg reporter specializing in media and entertainment, joins Matt to dissect Hollywood's latest trends. They weigh the media career of Travis Kelce and delve into Jennifer Lopez's film strategy. The duo shares insights on the revival of DC Studios, explores the streaming landscape with platforms like Amazon Prime Video, and analyzes Lionsgate's struggles. With a unique stock market analogy, they highlight the shifting dynamics in celebrity culture and the impact of K-pop on entertainment.

Fergus Navaratnam-Blair, an author of an NRG study on male character evolution, joins to explore how Hollywood’s portrayal of masculinity is shifting. He discusses the changing role models for young men, highlighting their preference for superheroes and digital influencers over traditional icons. The conversation delves into the importance of creating relatable and emotionally vulnerable characters that resonate with today's audiences. Fergus also addresses the challenges of balancing traditional masculinity with modern expectations in storytelling.