Italian
Exploring the future of entertainment and technology
A dynamic start to the summit
Industry leaders from Google, Warner Bros., Disney, DC Studios, Pinterest, and more gathered for an insightful day at the annual Entertainment and Technology Summit, presented by City National Bank. Held at the London Hotel in Los Angeles, the summit delved into the evolving relationship between technology and the entertainment industry.
The day kicked off with an engaging conversation between AMC Theatres CEO Adam Aron and a senior entertainment writer. Aron predicted a bright future for the movie theater business, revealing that AMC invested $100 million in Coke Freestyle machines for all their theaters. “Why?” Aron asked rhetorically. ”Because they have 140 flavors, and that beats having eight flavor choices.”
The intersection of entrepreneurship and entertainment
Donald Mustard, co-creator of “Fortnite” and now part of Anthony and Joe Russo’s production company AGBO, shared insights on measuring risk during the “Power Couple: Entrepreneurship + Entertainment” panel. A special episode of the “Strictly Business” podcast was recorded live, featuring co-editor-in-chief and the president and chief media analyst of a leading entertainment platform.
Generative AI: Embracing the future
The summit also explored the growth of generative AI and its impact on the industry. Thought leaders discussed how AI is being harnessed to create compelling marketing campaigns and more.
Key takeaways from the summit
Visionaries shaping entertainment content
A panel featuring Abhijay Prakash, President of Blumhouse, Malik Ducard, Chief Content Officer of Pinterest, Lisa Katz, President of Scripted at NBCUniversal Entertainment, Ben Davis, EVP of Original Programming at AMC Networks, and Sarah Aubrey, Head of Original Programming at Max, discussed the intersection of technology and entertainment.
Prakash highlighted the importance of engaging with consumers through various platforms, especially during the spooky season. Blumhouse is currently working on multiple projects, including a theatrical movie release, several streaming films, and a major unscripted show, along with a live event in collaboration with Peacock. “Any place that consumers are engaging with scary stories, we’ve got to figure out a way to be there,” Prakash said. “Horror is one of the few genres that’s actually up year over year in the box office.”
Ducard shared that over 520 million users visit Pinterest globally, providing key insights into industry trends. He mentioned the Pinterest Predicts system, which accurately forecasts societal trends with 80% accuracy. “We’ve got a tool called trends.pinterest.com,” Ducard explained. ”It helps brands and the media community see what’s happening now and peer into the future.”
Aubrey discussed the success of the new Max series “The Penguin” and the challenges of maintaining audience attention with short episodic seasons. She emphasized the need for longer batches of episodes to keep audiences engaged. ”One thing we’re focusing on is delivering longer batches of episodes because I think that’s really missing from a lot of platforms,” Aubrey said. “Audiences forget and are less compelled when there’s a big break in storytelling.”
AI: The genie out of the bottle
With AI at a pivotal point, the summit featured a panel with Eli Collins, VP of DeepMind at Google, Victoria Bousis, filmmaker and creative technologist, Katja Reitemeyer, Director of Data Science and AI at Nvidia, Abi Ashok, VP at Expedia Group, and Michael Wise, CTO at Universal. They discussed the week’s news, including James Cameron joining Stability AI’s board of directors. “It’s a good example of industry partnering on both the creative and technology sides,” Collins said.
Bousis noted the importance of funding creators to change the narrative around AI. “It’s about democratizing AI versus instilling fear,” she said. Wise emphasized the need to get foundational aspects like labor, IP, and ethics right to ensure the industry’s future. “We need to experiment with how this new tech can empower storytellers and create new types of entertainment,” he added.
Bousis highlighted how AI has revolutionized her creative process, enhancing visual development, 3D modeling, and sound engineering. “AI brings depth to your narrative, connecting personally with your audience,” she said.
Collins expressed excitement about recent technological progress, referencing collaborations with YouTube and filmmakers like Donald Glover to integrate AI into storytelling. “We’re enabling people to push the frontiers of their medium,” he said.
Reitemeyer discussed working with streaming companies on recommendation systems and data analytics, predicting that AI will enable more tailored content for consumers. “AI will provide much better insights than we’ve been getting,” she said.
Ashok emphasized that AI is designed to augment artists’ potential, not replace them. “If you weren’t threatened by Photoshop, you shouldn’t be threatened by AI,” he said.
Empowering digital creators and commerce
Expedia launched a new initiative to drive bookings by tapping digital creators, unveiling 100 “Expedia Shops” with influencers and brands. Lauri Metrose, SVP of Global Communications at Expedia Group, shared compelling statistics: 80% of people are inspired by social media to book travel, and 70% trust influencer recommendations. “We created a storefront where creators can share their content, and consumers can book it right away,” Metrose said.
One of the new digital shops is curated by Caroline Baudino, featuring highlights of her trips on Expedia.
Did you enjoy this article? Share it on your social channels and let us know your thoughts! Don’t miss out on the latest updates! Follow us on social media to stay informed about the newest releases.# Insights from the entertainment summit: A deep dive into the future of media
Exploring the world through travel vlogs
Travel vlogs have become a window to the world, taking viewers to exotic locations like Cabo San Lucas, Italy, and French Polynesia. These vlogs don’t just showcase the beauty of these places; they also highlight the authentic experiences of the travelers. As one vlogger put it, “Showing the good, the bad, and the ugly is how you really build connection. That’s how you build community and trust.” This approach allows viewers to experience the journey alongside the vlogger, making it more than just a review but a shared adventure.
Channing Dungey on innovation in television
Channing Dungey, Chairman and CEO of Warner Bros. Television Group, shared her vision for the future of television during a keynote conversation. Dungey emphasized the importance of innovation in content creation, leveraging advances in technology like VFX and post-production to tell stories in new ways. She noted that while technology is a tool, the core skill of storytelling remains unchanged.
“We’re here to tell great stories,” Dungey said. “What has been exciting is keeping pace with the audiences.” She highlighted how Warner Bros. is adapting to different viewing habits, with some shows designed for binge-watching and others for episodic consumption.
Warner Bros. currently has 90 shows across 20 platforms, including notable titles like The Penguin, Creature Commandos, and Shrinking Season 2. Dungey explained that these projects are part of a larger, cohesive narrative, all working towards a bigger story.
The evolving business of streaming
A panel discussion on the business of streaming featured industry leaders from Disney+, Peacock, Verizon, Samsung TV Plus, and TelevisaUnivision. The panelists discussed the synergy between free and subscription-based content. Takashi Nakano of Samsung TV Plus noted, “There’s a premium experience that people should pay for, and a free environment where people can explore and find great content.”
Annie Luo from Peacock highlighted the importance of data-driven metrics, especially during the Olympics, which was streamed in its entirety for the first time on a single platform. “The richness of data is sort of a superpower,” Luo said. “It helps us understand what content resonates with viewers.”
Adam Waltuch of TelevisaUnivision discussed the unique consumption patterns of Spanish-speaking audiences across different countries, which justifies offering both subscription and free tiers. Alisa Bowen of Disney+ pointed out the rapid maturation of the marketplace around measurement and accountability, noting that a significant portion of sign-ups are coming through the ad-supported tier.
Peter Safran on revitalizing DC Studios
Peter Safran, Co-Chairman and Co-CEO of DC Studios, discussed the challenges and opportunities in reinvigorating the superhero genre. Safran dismissed the notion of “superhero fatigue,” attributing audience disinterest to mediocre movies rather than the genre itself. “For us, it was never superhero fatigue. It was mediocre movie fatigue,” Safran said.
Safran emphasized the importance of genuine storytelling that resonates on an emotional level. He described the upcoming Superman film as a story rooted in love, compassion, and the essential goodness of the human spirit. “There’s a lot of hope in there, which is a hallmark of Superman,” he added.
Safran also touched on the scrutiny they face from fans, especially regarding iconic elements like Superman’s trunks. “There’s no decision we can make that will not be debated,” he said, confirming that they decided to keep the trunks.
Podcasting: A new frontier for engagement
The summit also spotlighted major podcast hosts like Jesse Tyler Ferguson, Jenna Ushkowitz, Iliza Shlesinger, Whitney Cummings, and Lamorne Morris. Morris, who recently won an Emmy for “Fargo,” shared how his popular show “New Girl” led to the creation of a podcast where he and co-star Zooey Deschanel recap episodes.
“It’s so hard to get into this business that now that I’m in it, I don’t want to get out of it,” Morris said. “Fans were asking for a ‘New Girl’ podcast, so that’s what I gave them.”
Final thoughts
The summit provided a comprehensive look at the future of media, from the evolving landscape of streaming to the innovative storytelling in television and film. The insights shared by industry leaders underscore the importance of authenticity, innovation, and audience engagement in shaping the future of entertainment.
Did you enjoy this article? Share it on your social channels and let us know your thoughts! Don’t miss out on the latest updates! Follow us on social media to stay informed about the newest releases.# Exploring the world of podcasts: A new wave of storytelling
A culinary journey with Jesse Tyler Ferguson
Jesse Tyler Ferguson, known for his role in “Modern Family,” has ventured into the podcasting world with a unique twist. His podcast, born from a cookbook he wrote during the pandemic, is recorded in various restaurants, offering a fresh format that deviates from the typical studio setup.
“Having a conversation over a meal felt very fun to me,” Ferguson shared. “A lot of it has to do with bringing your authentic self to these conversations.”
This approach not only provides a relaxed atmosphere but also allows for genuine, heartfelt discussions. The blend of food and conversation creates an engaging experience for listeners, making them feel like they are part of the meal.
Jenna Ushkowitz revisits ‘Glee’ with a new perspective
Jenna Ushkowitz, known for her role in “Glee,” uses her podcast to delve into episodes of the beloved series, offering fans a deeper understanding of the show’s joyful moments amidst its surrounding tragedies. Through her podcast, Ushkowitz aims to provide an honest account of her experiences on the show.
“We’re so lucky to have millions of fans to come listen,” Ushkowitz said. “Ryan Murphy decided to come and do the show with us… We were able to have these therapy sessions and set the record straight for what the experience was on our show.”
Her podcast serves as a platform for reflection and truth-telling, giving fans a chance to hear the real stories behind the scenes.
Iliza Shlesinger: The art of comedic conversations
Comedian Iliza Shlesinger started her podcast to hone her interview skills, discovering that talking with fellow comedians is an art form in itself. She fondly recalls having Seth Rogen as an early guest, which set the tone for her podcast’s success.
“I loved doing it because it’s another avenue to perform,” Shlesinger said. “People spend time with you even when you think you don’t matter. Podcasting reaches all those people.”
Shlesinger’s podcast highlights the importance of connection and the unique bond that forms through shared laughter and stories.
Whitney Cummings: A cultural antidote
Whitney Cummings believes that in today’s fast-paced world, podcasting offers a remedy for short attention spans. She shared an intriguing experience with a guest known as the “Hawk Tuah” girl, who captivated listeners with her authenticity.
“She was oddly riveting…she’s not trying to build a brand. She’s just exactly who she is. I asked ‘what interests you?’ and she was like, ‘Seafood!’” Cummings said.
Cummings’ podcast emphasizes the value of genuine conversations and the power of being true to oneself.
Marketing in the digital age: Masters of storytelling
Embracing authenticity and innovation
The “Marketer Renaissance – Masters of Storytelling Across Platforms” panel brought together industry leaders to discuss the importance of authenticity and innovation in marketing campaigns. The panel included Mike Benson, president & CMO of CBS, Danielle Bekas, executive vice president of international marketing at Warner Bros. Pictures, Danielle De Palma, executive vice president of global marketing at Paramount Pictures, Kristine Segrist, vice president of consumer marketing at Canva, Jennifer Storms, CMO of entertainment and sports at NBCUniversal, and Elana Sulzer, head of entertainment.
Benson highlighted the success of “Yellowstone” airing on CBS after its debut on Paramount+, noting the potential for increased viewership. The panel discussed the seamless transition from live NFL games to blockbuster films like ”Top Gun: Maverick” and “Mission Impossible.”
“It was really a unique opportunity for us to not only make some noise from a media perspective but gain reach and hopefully bring new audiences in,” Benson said. “We have to have partnerships. We need to understand the strengths of our properties and the brands and how we are doing that in a way that feels authentic and organic to the IPs that we’ve gotten.”
Creating immersive experiences
Danielle De Palma shared Paramount’s excitement for the upcoming release of “Gladiator 2,” scheduled for November 22. The company aims to create an immersive experience for fans, rather than just marketing a movie.
“It’s really figuring out what those pockets of fandom are…I know there is a large audience that is there to watch the plot,” De Palma said. “How do we make this an event that is gonna get people out of their homes to buy a ticket and show up opening weekend because it has to be an event movie for them to do that.”
De Palma also discussed the innovative marketing strategies for ”Mean Girls,” which involved sharing content in various clips via TikTok and releasing the original film in 23 clips on the platform. This approach led to massive reach across different audiences.
“We had this incredible film that had the nostalgic audience, but then we also needed to bring in a new audience that had never seen it,” De Palma said. “On ‘Mean Girls’ Day…I think over a million views, and the comments were coming from audiences that said they had never seen it and they were excited.”
Engaging talent authentically
Danielle Bekas emphasized the importance of engaging talent in ways that align with their personal brands and fanbases. She mentioned Michael Keaton promoting “Beetlejuice Beetlejuice” on “Hot Ones,” Jenna Ortega’s involvement in the feature, and Lady Gaga’s Harley Quinn photo shoot at the Louvre for “Joker: Folie a Deux.”
“We never thought we would get Michael Keaton to get back into his Beetlejuice costume to do marketing for the movie,” Bekas said, adding that Jenna Ortega “brings a younger audience…coming off of ‘Wednesday’ and Tim (Burton) and the success of that show, it just was the perfect time to be able to evangelize her fans, where her fans are, in an authentic way.”
Did you enjoy this article? Share it on your social channels and let us know your thoughts! Don’t miss out on the latest updates! Follow us on social media to stay informed about the newest releases.
