The Business

As David Ellison’s Skydance merger with Paramount begins, studio executives have been given some serious incentives to stick around through the transition process. Matt Belloni and Lucas Shaw examine the latest happenings at the studio.  Then, Kim Masters wraps a two-part conversation between The Apprentice writer Gabriel Sherman and Briarcliff Entertainment founder Tom Ortenberg. Sherman shares how billionaire Trump supporter Dan Snyder helped finance the project without reading the script… And he also shares how Snyder was bought out of the project once he saw an early screening and realized that the film was far too critical for his taste. Plus, Ortenberg reflects on the death threats he’s encountered over the years due to his propensity for distributing controversial movies.

Kim Masters and Matt Belloni examine MSNBC’s decision to hold Errol Morris’ immigration documentary Separated until after the 2024 presidential election. They also unpack the various factors that led Todd Phillips’ Joker sequel to flop. Plus, Masters speaks with writer Gabriel Sherman and Briarcliff Entertainment founder Tom Ortenberg in the first of a two part conversation about The Apprentice. Sherman tells us about the risks he’s undertaken in making a movie about prominent attorney Roy Cohn’s mentorship of a young Donald Trump. And he describes how a cease and desist letter from Trump put the project’s future in jeopardy. Plus, Ortenberg talks about the sprint to get the film to theaters just a month after establishing the distribution deal with his company.

As Sony Pictures CEO Tony Vinciquerra prepares to step down from his post in 2025, Kim Masters and Matt Belloni take a look at the company’s succession plans.  Plus, Masters speaks to Academy Award winning actress Kate Winslet about producing and starring in Lee, the true story of pioneering photojournalist Lee Miller. Winslet discusses the nine year uphill battle of getting the film off the ground — including sourcing financing and pulling together a cast that includes Alexander Skarsgård, Andrea Riseborough, Josh O’Connor, and comedian Andy Samberg in his first dramatic role.

With news of Lionsgate partnering with an AI mining firm and Meta’s new AI chatbot voiced by celebrities, Matt Belloni and Lucas Shaw break down the latest industry forays in the world of artificial intelligence.  Plus, Kim Masters speaks to Demi Lovato and Nicola Marsh about their new documentary, Child Star. The co-directors explain the challenges of persuading some of the best known former child stars—including Drew Barrymore, Raven-Symoné, and Kenan Thompson—to share their deeply personal experiences as young performers.

J.T. Mollner, a writer-director celebrated for his film 'Strange Darling', teams up with producer Roy Lee to discuss their gripping cat-and-mouse thriller. They reveal the tumultuous production journey, including a shutdown just two days in and fierce pushback from Miramax executives. Mollner's fight for creative control led to him receiving final cut, culminating in a film that earned rave reviews, with Stephen King dubbing it a 'clever masterpiece'. They also touch on the chaotic Disney leadership dynamics during this time.

Maciek Hamela, a Warsaw-based filmmaker, shares powerful insights as he documents the harrowing journeys of Ukrainian refugees in his film, 'In The Rearview.' He reveals the challenges of navigating fuel shortages while providing aid, highlighting the urgent need for humanitarian support. The discussion also touches on SAG-AFTRA members advocating for Pro-Palestine protection and the broader implications of Hollywood's response to global conflicts. Hamela emphasizes the importance of human stories over sensationalism in film, showcasing the resilience of those impacted by war.

Kim Masters and Matt Belloni examine the secret battle for succession among the family of billionaire Rupert Murdoch. They also take a look at a curious Wall Street Journal profile on Disney Parks Chairman Josh D’Amaro.  Plus, we revisit Masters’ conversation with writer Justin Kuritzkes about the rollout of his first screenplay, Challengers, now a full-fledged film directed by Luca Guadagnino. He talks about how the Zendaya-led project was inspired by a US Open match that eventually led to him becoming a tennis obsessive. And he shares how he and his wife Celine Song — who experienced a similar career whirlwind last year with her Oscar-nominated feature Past Lives — manage to keep their work separate from their relationship.

Meg LeFauve and Dave Holstein, writers behind Pixar's smash hit Inside Out 2, delve into the film's journey and its importance in theatrical releases over streaming. They discuss the creative evolution of characters as Riley enters her teenage years and how Pixar’s culture has shifted post-John Lasseter. The duo reflects on the challenges of animating emotional resonance in modern storytelling and the growing focus on diversity and AI's role in creative processes. Their insights illuminate the ever-changing landscape of animated films.

In this lively discussion, Gary Oldman, a celebrated actor known for his diverse roles, shares insights into his performance in 'Slow Horses,' which earned nine Emmy nods. He discusses the challenges of character development and the evolving landscape of fame. Meanwhile, Edgar Bronfman Jr., a key player in the media world, talks about his bold bid for Paramount Studios, shaking up industry norms. The conversation blends Oldman's reflections on his illustrious career with Bronfman's perspective on the competitive media landscape.

Justin Simien, the creator of 'Dear White People', dives into the rich history of African American cinema with his new docuseries, 'Hollywood Black'. He highlights key figures like Oscar Micheaux and discusses the impact of Black narratives in film. NPR's Eric Deggans joins to unpack the challenges Black filmmakers face, including appropriation in Hollywood. Together, they explore the triumphs and struggles in representing Black culture authentically. Also, the chaos in Hollywood with Joaquin Phoenix's abrupt film exit and layoffs at Paramount adds to the tension of an evolving industry.