David O'Connor

California Production Coalition: Fighting to Keep Hollywood Filming in California. https://lnkd.in/g-BtDZgq Entertainment Partners is excited to be part of the California Production Coalition to ensure California remains THE place to film! California has phenomenal resources and over 100 years of experience in productions. Excited to see this coalition being launched today! It's very important to note, Productions in California bring high-paying jobs and economic activity to every part of our state. And I'm proud to be part of the fight to protect that. Are you ready to join the fight for film, TV, and streaming production in California?   Along with nearly early three dozen film, television, and streaming production businesses and associations have formed the California Production Coalition to advocate for policies that strengthen California’s film industry. It’s a pleasure to be working alongside other businesses to improve conditions for filming in our home state. The group, including members like the Motion Picture Association (MPA), Television City Studios, and the Hollywood Chamber of Commerce, aims to address declining production activity, which has been slow to recover after the pandemic and last year’s strikes.   Representing prop houses, equipment leasing firms, payroll companies and other service providers, the coalition is focused on expanding California’s film tax credit program. Their first priority: supporting Gov. Gavin Newsom’s proposal to increase the annual program from $330M to $750M. This expansion could boost local jobs and revenue, building on the $961.5M in tax revenue and over 110,000 jobs supported by the credit between 2015 and 2020, per the LAEDC.   The coalition, which began organizing last summer, aims to educate policymakers and the public on the benefits of keeping productions in-state. They also advocate for reducing red tape to make California more competitive with rivals like Georgia, New Mexico, Canada, the UK and Australia.   With production volumes down 17% globally and reality TV shoots in Los Angeles declining by 56%, coalition members warn of the economic ripple effects on businesses that rely on a thriving production ecosystem.   The coalition’s mission: ensure that Hollywood’s legacy and economic contributions remain rooted in California, while creating a stronger, more competitive future for the state’s film and TV industry.   https://lnkd.in/gxXi4BuQ https://lnkd.in/gxXi4BuQ Entertainment Partners #CaliforniaProductionCoalition #CaliforniaFilmIndustry #TaxCredits #Hollywood #jobs

18

3 Comments

PARTYNEXTDOOR'S manager Tyler Henry recently shared gems on working PND, OVO, & more. Here are 5 of my favorite takeaways: 1) How you do anything is how you do everything Tyler shares the story of how he got his start in the music industry while in college in California. One of his first opportunities was a result of connecting with Drake's tour manager Jamilio who asked Tyler for help working a party. Tyler took the job incredibly seriously and came with a team of people that were super on point: •Tyler & his team showed up early •Each person had an assigned role  •Everyone wore black outfits as a uniform Tyler treated it like the Super Bowl - Jamilio saw his execution and precision which led to more opportunities. How you do anything is how you do everything. 2) Preparation is key Tyler talks about wanting to understand who the key players were that worked with the artists he was either currently working with or wanted to work with. He made a spreadsheet of artist and manager contacts to help understand who everyone was, capitalize on opportunities, and meet as many people as possible. That preparation and understanding of who the key players were allowed him to recognize folks in person and capitalize on what would otherwise be small moments. For ex: while waiting in line for the bathroom, he recognized an agent from the spreadsheet he made and initiated a conversation that made a last impression. Tyler also talks about being asked to help tour manage a show on the West Coast one year. Tyler knew that show was 1 of 5 and instead of just packing a bag for that one show, he packed a bag for all 5 just in case he got asked to stay on. Preparation met opportunity when he was asked to stay on for all 5 shows and after being able to because he was prepared, that was how he met PARTYNEXTDOOR. 3) Opportunities create momentum One of the biggest takeaways from Tyler's story is how moments and opportunities snowball - there is momentum in capitalizing on opportunities as doors continue opening from one thing to the next. Doing a great job in one moment can help open the next door. 4) Hard work is necessary Tyler tells the story of how when PARTYNEXTDOOR went on his first tour with Drake, he didn't get caught up in the nightlife or partying. Every night after the show, he would work on music with a small handheld mic and continue to perfect his craft. That dedication helped Party make some of the music that eventually catapalted his career. 5) Understanding your artist Part of being a great manager is understanding your artist and the fact that every artist has their own nuance. What works for 1 artist might not work for another one in terms of strategy, opportunities, workflow, and work style. It's important to understand your artist and tailor to their specific needs. Subscribe to my newsletter for more info: https://lnkd.in/eReqf9hp

58

4 Comments

Hollywood Betting Big on Genre Films: AFM’s Vegas Move Signals Shift in the Independent Film Market For the first time in its 45-year history, the American Film Market (AFM) has traded the coastal ambiance of Santa Monica for the glitzy setting of Las Vegas, launching its 2024 event at the Palms Casino Resort. This relocation comes with high hopes for streamlined networking, concentrated events, and fresh energy—but also a dose of skepticism as the independent film market continues to erode. With a notable focus on genre films, the independent film industry is gathering to confront market challenges in a bold new setting. A New Venue and New Energy Relocating from Los Angeles, where AFM was a fixture for over four decades, the Las Vegas setting promises to bring renewed energy to the market. At the Palms Casino Resort, all activities—from screenings to panels to networking events—are conveniently held under one roof, a feature set to alleviate some of the logistical challenges of prior years. By consolidating everything into one venue, AFM aims to foster a community atmosphere, allowing filmmakers, distributors, and buyers to maximize their time without shuttling across various locations. The all-in-one setup at the Palms is already a draw for industry heavyweights. With 286 sales, production, and distribution companies registered, including significant players, AFM sees increased interest from international representatives spanning 80 countries. European delegates from Italy, France, and Germany are attending in solid numbers, underscoring the global appeal of AFM’s new setting. The Rise of Genre Films Amid Uncertain Markets In an industry facing unpredictable returns from theatrical releases, genre films have emerged as a key investment focus at this year’s AFM. Genre films, especially horror and action, command significant buyer interest due to their strong built-in audiences and relatively lower risk. The recent success of horror films like Longlegs and Terrifier 3 has reinforced this trend, with AFM showcasing an impressive slate of horror and action offerings. Projects generating buzz include George A. Romero’s final zombie movie, Twilight of the Dead, directed by Brad Anderson, and the psychological thriller Victoria Psycho, which reunites Sanctuary star Margaret Qualley with director Zachary Wigon. Action films are also gaining traction, with high-profile offerings such as Cleaner, featuring Daisy Ridley in a Die Hard-style thriller, and The Last Druid, a sword-and-sandals epic led by Russell Crowe.

4

1 Comment

“Sony Music Entertainment is set to acquire the catalog of legendary rock band Queen in a landmark deal worth GBP £1 billion (USD $1.27 billion at current exchange rates). That’s according to Hits, which reported on Wednesday (June 19), citing sources, that Sony Music has emerged as the winning buyer for Queen’s recording and publishing rights, as well as royalties from previous deals with Disney Music Group and Universal Music Group. Disney owns the band’s recorded music catalog in North America, while UMG has a global distribution agreement with Disney. Separately, Queen band members Brian May, Roger Taylor, and John Deacon – plus the Freddie Mercury estate – each own equal shares in the company Queen Productions Ltd, which owns the group’s recording catalog outside the US and Canada, Music Business Worldwide noted in a report last year. UMG, as Disney’s distributor, will reportedly retain distribution rights in North America, although Sony will receive the royalties. UMG’s worldwide distribution rights will then transfer to Sony in 2026 or 2027, making Sony Music the sole distributor and owner of all Queen content globally, Hits explained. The deal also reportedly includes name and likeness rights, opening doors for merchandise and other ventures. Meanwhile, Queen’s founding members, May and Taylor, who continue to tour with vocalist Adam Lambert, will reportedly retain control of revenue from live performances.” Read the full article for more: #Queen #SonyMusic #UMG #DisneyMusicGroup #UniversalMusicGroup #Music #MusicBusiness #Musica #MusicIndustry #Musique #Musik #MusicBiz #Creators #Artists

1

According to a 2017 paper by Jim Rogers, the three major labels control over 70% of the recording market and 65% of the music publishing market (global). The four-firm concentration ratio rule states that if the top four companies collectively hold more than 75% of the market share, the industry is considered an oligopoly.

3

Two days until our film financing/production seminar at UCLA (attend in person or virtually, or order a taped version - details on that last one soon). We're going to drill down on how to finance films (studios, streamers, equity, debt, pre-sales, tax credits, and philanthropy) with special guests from these worlds. And we're going to review the critical path once you have the funding. https://lnkd.in/g-n7HSr3

5

2 Comments

During my time in the entertainment industry, I pursued an MFA in Film at UCLA, believing it would grant me the credibility I needed to teach and advance my career. However, I soon realized that the degree was essentially useless. Despite my qualifications and education, I was still viewed through the lens of the same stereotypes I had hoped to overcome. It highlighted the systemic issues in the industry—elitism, racism, and exclusion—especially toward Hispanics like me. My time at UCLA felt like an exercise in futility. I was treated unfairly, my opinions were disregarded, and I was prevented from taking courses I had a right to pursue. The institution, like the industry it prepares students for, wasn’t interested in fostering an inclusive environment for minorities. The industry’s claims of progress are empty, and DEI programs only serve to distract from the deeper issues of systemic exclusion. These programs don’t lead to jobs or real opportunities; they’re just talk. Despite decades of experience as a screenwriter, I continue to be shut out of opportunities. Even landing an interview is a struggle. The elites who defend the system benefit from it, while hardworking Hispanics like me are left behind. President-elect Trump recognized this disparity, which is why he resonated with many. The people who defend this broken system are the ones who created it, and they have no intention of changing it. Despite my qualifications, I’m still judged by my background, and the industry continues to be set up to maintain the status quo. Until that changes, I’ll remain caught in a cycle of exclusion.

1

From the Latest FilmLA Report • Scripted TV production in Los Angeles dropped 99% in Q3 2023 compared to 2022. • FilmLA calls for a significant expansion of California’s $330 million production incentive due to a 20% drop in local filming. • Other jurisdictions like New York, Ontario, Georgia, and the U.K. offer more competitive, uncapped or larger subsidies, putting California at a disadvantage. • Strikes in 2023 and a decline in Peak TV also contributed to a production slowdown. • Global production declines occurred, with Georgia and the U.K. also seeing reduced TV releases. • California temporarily boosted its incentives in 2021, but ongoing state budget deficits limit further expansions. • FilmLA warns California must act to support its entertainment industry or face continued market share losses. FilmLA Seeks 'Vast Expansion' of California Tax Credit (variety.com) https://lnkd.in/gps_6c9A

47

9 Comments

In the world of entertainment, the concept of residuals is both fascinating and vital for those who create the content we love—be it films, television shows, or digital media productions. Residuals are essentially forms of additional compensation paid to actors, writers, directors, and other creatives after the initial release of a project. This payment is not just a bonus but a right, often secured by unions, to ensure that creatives receive their fair share of the revenues generated over time from their works. https://lnkd.in/eutQDFdt

5

The future is now. Watch the full case study. Worth it.

28

2 Comments

Let’s talk about LIONSGATE going public! I am looking forward to investing in the 20,000 title strong media corporation( and counting). I have been waiting for this investment opportunity for a while. I believe we should be able to see this in the next month or two as it has been quite some time since their December 2023 press releases. So get your investing fingers ready for the new ticker coming soon! Building a diverse portfolio across media and entertainment, whilst working in media is such a fascinating aspect of keeping up-to-date with the business and the corporate churn of the executive offices. And we all know there has been quite a churn in that department recently! For example the Disney internal war, anyone?? That certainly was not a smooth transition! - and the votes resulted in the fifth largest shareholder divesting in the company due to a sore EGO. Personally I believe that was a bad move considering the performance numbers. But I certainly had fun buying a few extra shares during that particular downturn. Which is already looking up!) But let’s see how the House of Mouse performs in the long run when a new lion comes to the block as well as some serious acquisitions between Skydance and Paramount… let’s just say the movies are getting far more interesting! And that’s not just because we’re getting a miniature break from another comic book film franchise(and thank goodness for that! Please Hollywood let’s bring back the golden era of cinema, original content /IP and independent film. I think we had enough remakes for now… do you hear that Hollywood? Yes your bottom line may be doing well, but it’s only a matter of time until franchise fatigue once again. And all of these mergers and acquisitions are happening right before the largest predicted economic downturn in US history. Get your rodeo hats and your investing fingers ready. 2025 is going to be a fascinating year financially for Hollywood! Especially with AI encroaching at breakneck speed. #film #finance #investing #media https://lnkd.in/g8JRfhps!

9

MARTIN GROVE'S WEEKEND BOXOFFICE BUZZ: Now playing below -- a quick look at the upcoming July 4th holiday weekend.   . Universal/Illumination Entertainment's PG rated animated sequel DESPICABLE ME 4 is opening 7/3 at about 4,000 theatres. It's expected to generate colorful boxoffice fireworks with around $140M for five days -- or more, which is usually the case these days! The RT critics are haters at 63%, but that won't keep families away. It's tracking best with men under 25 (13 points over norm) and next best with women under 25 (12 points over norm).   . Lionsgate/Roadside Attractions' R rated Indian action crime drama KILL is opening wide 7/4. Pundits are guessing $4-6M for four days. RT critics love it at 95%, but that's based on just 20 reviews. It's tracking below norm for all demos.   (See more at www.ZAMM.com)   #movies #boxoffice #martingrove

5

✨ Why Choose Cultivate Entertainment Partners for Your Brand Collaborations? ✨ At Cultivate Entertainment Partners, we go beyond traditional celebrity partnerships. Here's what sets us apart: 📺 Product Placements: We place your products directly into TV shows, movies, and podcasts for organic visibility. 🎬 Unmatched Access: Our roster includes not just celebrities but also producers and directors, giving us unique opportunities to integrate your brand into the entertainment industry seamlessly. When you work with us, you're not just gaining exposure — you're becoming part of the story. Let's cultivate success together! 🌟 #BrandPartnerships #ProductPlacement #EntertainmentMarketing

1

“In 2022, the Copyright Royalty Board (CRB) accepted a (near) music industry-wide settlement to improve songwriters’ streaming royalty rates in the United States from January 1, 2023. The settlement – known as ‘Phonorecords IV’ or ‘CRB IV’ – will see songwriters and music publishers paid a headline rate of 15.35% of a given interactive streaming service’s US revenue by 2027. That rate is being ‘phased in’, because ‘Phonorecords IV’ covers the five-year period between 2023 and 2027: In 2023 (starting January 1), songwriters and music publishers were to be paid a headline rate of 15.1% of a US service’s revenue; in 2024, this increased to 15.2%; in 2025, it will increase to 15.25%; in 2026 it will increase to 15.3%; and in 2027 it will reach 15.35%. The deal also included a number of changes to other components of the rate, including increases to the per-subscriber minimums and the “Total Content Costs (TCC)” calculations which reflect the rates that services pay to record labels.” #Spotify #NMPA #Streaming #Legal #StreamingRoyalties #Royalties #RecordedMusic #StreamingServices #StreamingMedia #MusicStreams #MusicRoyalties #Songs #Recordings #US #Music #MusicBusiness #Musica #MusicIndustry #Musique #Musik #MusicBiz #Songwriters #MusicPublishing #RecordLabels

2

Mission: Impossible—Troika Force Logline: In a world where media giants wrestle for dominance, Paramount Global entrusts its fate to ‘THE TROIKA’— 3 visionary leaders tasked with a high-stakes mission to rescue the studio from the brink. Through strategic cuts, covert partnerships, and bold innovations, they race against time to save PARA from collapse. Will they succeed in this epic quest, or will their efforts be the final act in a storied legacy? Originally seen as a temporary fix, ‘THE TROIKA’ is now set to steer the ship through some stormy seas and possibly redefine Paramount’s future. With PARA’S $14 billion debt & lagging stock, ‘THE TROIKA’ are tasked with making tough decisions, including significant layoffs & asset sales. Their goal? Transforming Paramount into a leaner, more agile company. Despite the unconventional setup and skepticism from some analysts, the team has a unified vision & close working relationship, always a good omen — if sustained. Cough. However, their success could end up paving the way for JUST 1 of them to take the helm — solo — eventually. #ParamountGlobal #Leadership #MediaIndustry #BusinessTransformation #filmindustry #entertainment #media #business #news

5

2 Comments