Global TV, Film & Media Industry News Roundup, Tuesday 18 March 2025
Village Roadshow files for bankruptcy; Ne Zha 2 breaks records; Netflix credit dispute; FILMART boosts Asian cinema; Abrams’ Duster returns; Sony launches Hayate; Lively-Baldoni legal doc.
Today’s Highlights:
Village Roadshow Entertainment Group Files for Chapter 11 Bankruptcy - Village Roadshow, producer of Joker and The Matrix, has filed for Chapter 11 bankruptcy following a costly legal battle with Warner Bros. over the hybrid release of The Matrix Resurrections, which resulted in over $18 million in legal fees.
Ne Zha 2 Becomes Highest-Grossing Animated Film - China's Ne Zha 2 has grossed $2.03 billion, setting a new record for animated films and revitalising industry optimism despite concerns over economic shifts and Gen Z viewing habits.
Netflix Faces Industry Backlash Over ‘Celebrity Bear Hunt’ Credit Omission - A LinkedIn post by producer Emma Young has reignited debate over crediting development executives after Netflix failed to acknowledge her husband’s team despite 18 months of work on Celebrity Bear Hunt.
Hong Kong FILMART 2025 Highlights Asian Cinema Growth - FILMART 2025 showcased major co-productions, international distribution deals, and discussions on AI-driven content, reaffirming its role as a key hub for Asian cinema’s global expansion.
J.J. Abrams Returns with Duster, a Retro Crime Thriller - Abrams teams up with LaToya Morgan for Duster, a 1970s-set Max series starring Rachel Hilson and Josh Holloway, marking his first co-written project in six years.
Sony's Aniplex and Crunchyroll Launch Hayate Anime Studio - Sony’s anime subsidiaries have formed Hayate, a Tokyo-based studio dedicated to producing content for Crunchyroll, solidifying its dominance in the global anime market.
Chris O’Donnell to Star in 9-1-1: Nashville - O’Donnell will lead the 9-1-1 spinoff as a Nashville fire captain in a drama created by Ryan Murphy and Tim Minear, set to premiere in the 2025–26 season.
Payal Kapadia’s All We Imagine as Light Wins Best Film at Asian Film Awards - The Cannes-winning Indian film, praised for its poetic storytelling, won the top prize, cementing Kapadia’s reputation as a leading voice in contemporary cinema.
Blake Lively and Justin Baldoni Legal Battle Examined in He Said, She Said - A documentary investigates the legal dispute between It Ends With Us co-stars, with Lively alleging misconduct and Baldoni counter-suing for $400 million in defamation damages.
Tom Daley Documentary 1.6 Seconds in Development - Warner Bros. and the Olympic Channel are producing a documentary on Olympic diver Tom Daley, chronicling his career and personal life, offering an intimate look at his journey.
Plus: News, Insights, Festivals & Markets, In Development, Deals, Opportunities & Jobs with United Agents, Netflix & ProSiebenSat.1.
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NEWS
Village Roadshow Entertainment Group Files for Chapter 11 Bankruptcy
Village Roadshow Entertainment Group, the producer behind Joker and The Matrix films, has filed for Chapter 11 bankruptcy protection. The filing follows a costly legal dispute with Warner Bros. over the hybrid release of The Matrix Resurrections, which led to over $18 million in legal fees. Read More
INSIGHTS
The Marlow Murder Club Returns With More Charm and Mystery
In season two of The Marlow Murder Club, Samantha Bond’s Judith, Jo Martin’s Suzie, and Cara Horgan’s Becks reunite for three new mysteries in picturesque Marlow. Their growing friendship and unique skills—archaeology, dog walking, and social connections—help crack cases, blending sharp storytelling with humour. Adapted from Robert Thorogood's book, the series offers a cozy alternative to darker crime dramas, drawing comfort and intrigue from its delightful trio. Read More
Ne Zha 2: A Record-Breaking Blockbuster and Industry Hope
China’s Ne Zha 2 has shattered records, earning $2.03 billion and becoming the highest-grossing animated film ever. Its success has revived optimism in Beijing’s film industry after a challenging post-pandemic period. However, concerns linger over economic headwinds and shifting Gen Z habits. While Ne Zha 2 highlights the creative potential of Chinese cinema, experts stress the need for diverse, year-round hits to sustain long-term growth in the industry. Read More
Pitch Smarter, Survive Longer: Rethinking TV Production Rules
Delays in broadcaster decisions are straining independent producers, who risk financial collapse while waiting. With longer decision-making timelines eroding timeliness and urgency, producers are urged to pitch widely and transparently, rejecting outdated exclusivity norms. One solution is adopting option agreements, as seen in the film, to provide financial support and safeguard projects. It’s time for broadcasters to respect creators’ livelihoods—because “maybe” isn’t enough when it comes months too late. Read More
Critical Content Partners With NPACT for Global Format Success
Jenny Daly’s Critical Content, known for hits like Catfish and Instant Dream Home, has partnered with NPACT to tap into fresh formats for international markets. This collaboration connects U.S.-based nonfiction producers with a global network, boosting cross-border storytelling and IP ownership. Daly highlights the demand for universal formats and the importance of engaging content, strategic casting, and innovation to retain viewers while navigating the competitive U.S. television landscape. Read More
'Severance' Sparks Cultural Conversations on Work-Life Balance
As Severance concludes its second season on Apple TV+, the show has ignited a cultural dialogue about work-life balance. Centring on characters living split lives as "innies" at work and "outies" outside, it captures the disconnection many feel between their professional and personal selves. Fans and creators highlight its relatability, with terms like "innie" now symbolising the divide, offering satire and reflection on modern workplace dynamics. Read More
Netflix Reveals Production Secrets Behind Adolescence
Netflix has shared insights into the making of Adolescence, a high-concept drama series known for its meticulous filming approach. Each episode reportedly required at least 10 takes per scene, with drone cinematography playing a significant role in its visual storytelling. The platform is betting on the show’s cinematic style to attract global audiences. Read More
Netflix’s ‘Celebrity Bear Hunt’ Sparks Industry Credit Debate
A viral LinkedIn post by producer Emma Young highlights the lack of recognition for development executives after Netflix’s Celebrity Bear Hunt premiered without crediting her husband’s team. Despite 18 months of development work, their contributions were omitted, sparking widespread industry support and a renewed conversation about undervaluing development teams. The incident highlights the growing call for fair acknowledgment of unscripted TV professionals, often deemed the “beating heart” of production. Read More
Consumers Struggle to Differentiate Streaming Services
A new study by Hub Entertainment Research finds that consumers are increasingly confused about streaming services, with many unable to distinguish content libraries between platforms. The report highlights the need for clearer brand positioning as subscription fatigue and content fragmentation continue challenging the industry. Read More
How Covid-19 Reshaped British Television
The pandemic upended UK television, with lockdowns forcing innovation. Shows like This Morning adapted safety measures like a "cuddle curtain" while presenters worked remotely, such as The One Show’s Matt Baker broadcasting from his sofa. The Graham Norton Show embraced Zoom, delivering humour amid hardship. From chaotic cooking mishaps to heartfelt moments, live TV became a comfort and a creative response to an unprecedented global challenge. Read More
The duality of Robert De Niro in his new gangster movie, The Alto Knights
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