The Town with Matthew Belloni

Producer and former cohead of movies at Amazon Studios, Ted Hope, discusses the negative impact of streaming on the independent film business. Topics include predatory pricing, changing incentives of streamers, and potential solutions. Host Matt Belloni predicts the box office success of 'The Boy and the Heron'.

The podcast discusses major deals in the entertainment industry in 2023 and predicts the trends for 2024. Topics include private equity dominating the deal market, potential major mergers, predictions for Paramount Global, Warner Bros. Discovery, and Comcast, the future of theater chains and NBA rights, and the possibility of an IATSE strike in the spring.

The podcast explores the challenges of monetizing podcasts and the rise of video versions. It discusses the impact of big tech companies like Spotify and the trend of celebrities starting their own podcasts. The different types of podcasts and the appeal of news-driven shows are explored. The need for consolidation in the podcasting industry and the role of YouTube are discussed. The challenges of podcast discovery and monetization are highlighted.

Julia Alexander, a streaming wars expert, joins Matt Belloni to discuss the most strategic streaming moves in 2023. They talk about Netflix's dominance, Disney's strategy, upfront payments in streaming, and changes at the Oscars.

Denise Chamian, a veteran casting director, joins Matt to discuss Hollywood's star-making problem, the impact of AI on casting, misconceptions about the casting process, and the effectiveness of the SAG-AFTRA strike. They reveal secrets about casting for 'Top Gun: Maverick' and 'Elvis', and highlight actors who are stars in the making. Matt gives his prediction for the opening weekend of 'Renaissance: A Film By Beyoncé'.

Lucas Shaw from Bloomberg joins Matt to discuss the struggles facing Paramount Global in the streaming age and the possibility of a sale. They explore the potential buyers, including David Ellison, and the impact of declining TV advertising. They also speculate on the future sale of Paramount's assets.

Peter Kafka, Vox senior correspondent and 'Recode Media' host, joins Matt to discuss the growing power of tech companies in Hollywood, including Apple and Amazon's place in the entertainment industry. They also explore the rise of advertising in streaming, YouTube's and TikTok's influence, big tech's foray into the media ecosystem, Elon Musk's impact on social media, and upcoming movies. Matt concludes the podcast with box office predictions for 'Wish' and 'Napoleon.'

This podcast discusses the unexpected winners and losers of the Hollywood labor strikes, highlighting the impact on various individuals and groups in the industry. It explores the challenges faced by actors and filmmakers, as well as the potential damage to careers. It also discusses companies like A24 and Neon as winners, and companies like Amazon and Apple as unexpected winners. The podcast also touches on the influence of political figures and the repercussions for restaurants and talent agencies in LA.

Justine Bateman, former actress and SAG-AFTRA negotiation committee consultant, discusses the potential pitfalls of the AI portion of the contract in the entertainment industry. They explore issues such as job opportunities for human actors, consent for recognizable facial features, and the risk of Hollywood being tied to generative AI companies. Additionally, Matt predicts the release of 'The Hunger Games: The Ballad of Songbirds and Snakes'.

Brian Stelter joins Matt to discuss Fox's relationship with Hollywood after Rupert's retirement, including their profitable deals with the NFL and ad-supported TV service Tubi. They also explore Fox News as a business, challenges faced by Fox Nation in building a niche news streaming service, and opinions on NFL football broadcast and Tom Brady's potential involvement.