Hollywood’s evolving landscape: A new era for independent producers
The past year has seen a significant shift in Hollywood, with a noticeable decline in TV and film acquisitions. As the industry recalibrates its standards for content volume and profitability, studios are undergoing major transformations. Amidst this upheaval, independent producers like Tommy Oliver are navigating the changes with cautious optimism, hoping for a more balanced and inclusive future.
Tommy Oliver’s vision for Confluential Company
Tommy Oliver, the producer-director and CEO of the Confluential Company, has been steering his Los Angeles-based firm through these turbulent times. Confluential, which focuses on BIPOC stories, has been thriving by nurturing and financing its own projects while also running a busy production services division. Oliver’s approach is rooted in a deep commitment to supporting creators of color, even when the industry landscape is challenging.
“We focus on BIPOC stories, and so we only put money into projects from creators of color. That’s it. When things are great [in Hollywood], it’s maybe OK to good for us. When things are bad, it’s horrible, because these are the sort of projects that are often at the back of the queue,” Oliver explains.
The value of patience and strategic thinking
One of Confluential’s notable successes is the critically acclaimed Sundance film Fancy Dance. Oliver’s strategic patience paid off when the film’s star, Lily Gladstone, began generating Oscar buzz for her role in Killers of the Flower Moon. This increased interest ultimately led to Fancy Dance being acquired by Apple TV+.
“We knew the film was more valuable, and so we chose to wait. That’s the difference between how people are valuing something at a moment in time and knowing when to do a deal,” Oliver says.
For more information and to watch the trailer, visit Fancy Dance.
Creative financing and smart bets
Oliver and his wife, producer Codie Oliver, also created the unscripted series Black Love, which aired on OWN for six seasons. The show’s success is a testament to their ability to creatively finance and smartly bet on projects with high potential.
“We can be creative about the financing. We can be smart about it because we can bet in the right ways for the things that have outsized potential,” Oliver says. “We know who the audience is. We know how to deliver creatively, and so if we are hitting on the things that we need to do, then we should be in a good place, especially if we’re being responsible about it.”
Navigating the new Hollywood
Oliver’s dual interest in both the business and creative sides of filmmaking has been instrumental in Confluential’s success. His ability to understand the value of BIPOC stories and navigate the industry’s shifting landscape has set him apart.
“None of this works if we’re overspending. None of this works if we’re not understanding where the marketplace is or how things have shifted,” Oliver emphasizes.
The future of media and entertainment
Oliver’s insights and experiences offer a valuable perspective on the future of media and entertainment. As the industry continues to evolve, the importance of supporting diverse voices and stories becomes increasingly clear. Oliver’s work with Confluential is a shining example of how independent producers can thrive by staying true to their mission and adapting to the changing landscape.
For those interested in hearing more from industry leaders, the Strictly Business podcast offers weekly conversations about the business of media and entertainment. New episodes debut every Wednesday and can be downloaded on various platforms, including Apple Podcasts, Amazon Music, Spotify, Google Play, and SoundCloud.
To explore more about the podcast, visit Strictly Business.
Personal reflections for cinema, TV series, and music enthusiasts
As a cinema and TV series enthusiast, it’s inspiring to see how independent producers like Tommy Oliver are making a significant impact in Hollywood. Their dedication to telling diverse stories and supporting underrepresented creators is not only commendable but also essential for the industry’s growth and evolution.
For music lovers, the parallels between the film industry and the music world are striking. Just as independent filmmakers are finding new ways to thrive, independent musicians are also navigating a rapidly changing landscape. The key to success in both fields lies in understanding the audience, being creative with financing, and staying true to one’s mission.
the evolving landscape of Hollywood presents both challenges and opportunities. Independent producers like Tommy Oliver are leading the way by championing diverse stories and finding innovative ways to succeed. Their work serves as a reminder of the power of storytelling and the importance of inclusivity in the media and entertainment industry.