TV, Film & Media Industry International News Roundup, Friday 26 July 2024

Murdoch's family trust battle; Helena Kennedy leads CIISA; Screen Australia's $5.2M funding; ITV ad revenue up; Prix Italia in Turin; Sarajevo Film Festival; Disney+ bundle; Vivendi's revenue growth.

Today’s Highlights:

• Rupert Murdoch Family Trust Amendment Battle: Rupert Murdoch's attempts to adjust the family trust, leaving the eldest son, Lachlan, in charge, have faced opposition from three of his children.

• Helena Kennedy Appointed Chair of CIISA: Helena Kennedy has been named chair of a U.K. watchdog that investigates harassment and abuse in the creative industries.

• Screen Australia's $5.2 Million Enterprise Funding: Screen Australia announces over $5.2 million in funding for 18 Enterprise People and 18 Enterprise Business proposals.

• ITV Ad Revenue Increase Amid Studios Revenue Drop: ITV reports a 10% rise in first-half ad revenue, though ITV Studios' revenue drops due to Hollywood strikes.

• 76th Prix Italia in Turin: The 76th Prix Italia will take place in Turin, featuring over 250 programs in various categories and over 80 broadcasters participating.

• Sarajevo Film Festival Competition Lineup: Sarajevo Film Festival announces a 54-title competition program, including the world premiere of "Dwelling Among The Gods."

• Steve McQueen's 'Blitz' at New York Film Festival: Steve McQueen's "Blitz," starring Saoirse Ronan, will close the 62nd New York Film Festival.

• Demi Moore's 'The Substance' at Toronto Film Festival: "The Substance," starring Demi Moore, will open the Midnight Madness section at the Toronto Film Festival.

• Disney+, Hulu, and Max Streaming Bundle Launch: A new streaming bundle of Disney+, Hulu, and Max has been launched in the U.S., offering significant savings.

• Vivendi First-Half Revenue Increase: Vivendi reports a 5.8% year-on-year revenue growth, bolstered by Canal+ and the acquisition of Lagardère.

Plus: News, Insights, Executive Moves, In Development, Deals, Events & Jobs with UKTV, WME, Netflix, Prime, Sky, Yoto, Mattel, MTV, RAI, Lionsgate, Hello Sunshine, Channel 4 & Warners.

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NEWS

Rupert Murdoch Seeks Family Trust Amendment to Leave Lachlan in Charge: Report

According to a New York Times report, Rupert Murdoch, 93, is facing a family battle as three of his four adult children oppose his efforts to adjust the family trust to leave eldest son Lachlan in charge after his death. Prudence, Elisabeth, and James Murdoch are fighting their father's plans, arguing in court over the trust adjustments. The elder Murdoch believes Lachlan's leadership will preserve the company's conservative editorial stance.

From: Variety

Helena Kennedy Appointed Chair of U.K. Watchdog Aiming to Wipe Out Industry Harassment

Helena Kennedy, a renowned barrister and British Parliament member, has been appointed chair of a U.K. watchdog group to investigate harassment and abuse in the music, film, TV, and theatre industries. British stars like Keira Knightley and Cara Delevigne recently urged funding for the Creative Industries Independent Standards Authority (CIISA). Bectu's chief told The Hollywood Reporter that CIISA's launch is expected in the next few years as it secures funding.

From: The Hollywood Reporter

Screen Australia announces over $5.2 million in Enterprise Funding

Screen Australia has announced over $5.2 million in funding for 18 Enterprise People and 18 Enterprise Business proposals. This funding aims to support screen businesses in creating sustainable growth and providing career-defining opportunities for individuals. Recipients include Ten4 Media, Artemis Media, and Lone Star Company. The First Nations Department has allocated $1 million to support First Nations businesses and practitioners. The program has invested over $50 million since 2009, supporting 133 businesses and 136 creators.

From: Screen Australia

ITV First-Half Ad Revenue Jumps 10 Percent, But Studios Arm Posts Drop After Hollywood Strikes

U.K. TV giant ITV reported a slight drop in first-half 2024 revenue but a 10 per cent rise in advertising revenue, driven by a 17 per cent jump in the second quarter due to the UEFA Euro 2024 soccer tournament. ITV Studios' revenue fell 13 per cent in the first six months due to delivery timing and the U.S. writers' and actors' strike, but adjusted EBITA rose 5 per cent to £136 million.

From: The Hollywood Reporter

The 76th Prix Italia edition will be held in Turin

The 76th Prix Italia will take place in Turin from October 1-4, featuring over 250 programs in radio, podcast, TV, and digital categories. More than 80 broadcasters from all continents will participate. The jury, comprising over 80 experts, is already reviewing entries. The awards ceremony, scheduled for October 4, will cap a week of events, including RAI previews, conferences, and screenings, all free to the public.

From: Señal News

Sarajevo unveils 54-title competition programme, including ‘Dwelling Among The Gods’

The Sarajevo Film Festival has announced its 30th edition competition lineup, featuring 54 titles across four sections. Eight films will compete in the feature film category, including the world premiere of Vuk Rsumovic's "Dwelling Among The Gods." The documentary section includes 21 films, with world premieres of "Dad’s Lullaby" and "Your Life Without Me." The festival will also feature the out-of-competition premiere of "Mother Mara." The event runs from August 16-23.

From: Screen Daily

Steve McQueen’s ‘Blitz’ Starring Saoirse Ronan To Close New York Film Festival In North American Premiere

Steve McQueen's "Blitz," starring Saoirse Ronan and Elliott Heffernan, will close the 62nd New York Film Festival, making its North American premiere, announced Film at Lincoln Center. The film recreates London during World War II's blitzkrieg from the perspectives of single mother Rita (Ronan) and her 9-year-old son George (Heffernan). Directed, written, and produced by Oscar-winner McQueen, it offers a multicultural portrait of 1940s London. The supporting cast includes Kathy Burke, Benjamin Clémentine, Harris Dickinson, Stephen Graham, Hayley Squires, and Paul Weller.

From: Deadline

Demi Moore’s ‘The Substance’ to Open Midnight Madness at Toronto Film Fest

"The Substance," a feminist horror film starring Demi Moore as an aging Hollywood star who undergoes a secret cloning procedure to save her career, will open the Midnight Madness sidebar at the Toronto Film Festival, making its North American premiere. Directed by Cannes award-winner Coralie Fargeat, the film also stars Margaret Qualley and Dennis Quaid and will hit theatres on Sept. 20. The Midnight Madness section, known for launching careers like Eli Roth's and featuring memorable screenings like Sacha Baron Cohen's "Borat," has booked ten genre films for its 2024 lineup.

From: The Hollywood Reporter

Disney+, Hulu and Max Streaming Bundle Launches, Priced at Discount of Up to 38%

Starting July 25, a new Disney+, Hulu, and Max streaming bundle is available in the U.S. for a reduced monthly price. New and existing subscribers can purchase the bundle for $16.99/month with ads and $29.99/month without ads. The ad-supported bundle offers up to 38.8% savings, while the no-ads bundle saves nearly 35% compared to purchasing the services separately. This bundle includes Disney, Warner Bros. Discovery, Marvel, DC, Star Wars, Harry Potter, Disney princesses, and more content.

From: Variety

Vivendi Posts First-Half Revenues of $9.8 Billion, Bolstered by Canal+, Lagardere

Vivendi, the parent company of French pay-TV banner Canal+ Group, reported first-half 2024 revenues of €9.05 billion ($9.8 billion), a 5.8% year-on-year growth, with second-quarter revenues spiking 98.4%. The acquisition of Lagardère and the growth of Canal+ Group bolstered revenues. Vivendi's EBITA rose 39.3% to $671 million, driven by Lagardère's consolidation and Havas' growth. Canal+ Group’s revenues increased by 4.6% to $3.2 billion, supported by TV operations and Studiocanal's 8.6% revenue rise, partly due to the global success of the Amy Winehouse biopic "Back to Black."

From: Variety

INSIGHTS

AMC CEO on new debt refinancing deal: Gives us ‘years and years’ of breathing room

AMC CEO Adam Aron joins ‘Squawk Box’ to discuss the company’s new debt restructuring deal, state of the movie theater industry, box office outlook, and more.

From: CNBC

As ‘Deadpool & Wolverine’ Stomps On Superhero Fatigue, Studios Debate Comic-Con’s Relevance

Two powerful events are set to collide: San Diego Comic-Con, running Thursday through Sunday, and the opening of Marvel Studios' "Deadpool & Wolverine" on Thursday, expected to achieve a $200 million opening, the biggest of the year. This marks the first time an MCU movie release coincides with Comic-Con. Marvel Studios will host two Hall H panels: one celebrating the "Deadpool & Wolverine" premiere on Thursday night, and another MCU preview on Saturday night. Additionally, HBO and DC Studios will debut "The Penguin" series and may reveal surprises from Warner Bros. comic book studio.

From: Deadline

Series to Watch: August 2024

Drama Quarterly highlights ten new series to watch this August, including the Spanish hospital drama Respira, the Australian psychological crime series Critical Incident, and a sequel to the Brazilian film City of God. Other notable mentions are the US crime drama Homicide: Life on the Street, the Canadian coming-of-age comedy Essaie même pas!, and the Greek mythology-based UK series Kaos.

From: Drama Quarterly

Hollywood Workers Grapple for a Foothold in an Industry at a Crossroads

The pandemic and strikes have deeply impacted Hollywood, with many industry veterans struggling to find work. Production, development, and support roles are scarce, pushing workers to consider new career paths. Studios are cutting costs and becoming risk-averse, and jobs are shifting away from traditional TV and film to online content, live events, and gaming. The competition for jobs is fierce, with hundreds applying for the same positions. The industry is undergoing one of the most transformative periods in its history.

From: The Wrap

Lila Avilés’ Big Hug with Tótem

Lila Avilés discusses her film "Tótem," which won the Ecumenical Jury Prize at Berlinale. The story, seen through 7-year-old Sol’s eyes, follows a family gathering. Avilés emphasises the importance of casting, her collaboration with cinematographer Diego Tenorio, and the blend of actors and non-actors. The film, described as a "hug," captures a warm, intimate atmosphere and highlights Avilés’ influences from motherhood and childhood experiences.

From: Filmink

The Art of Pure Observation

First-time director Darcy Newton returned with 600 hours of footage for the documentary "Claptrap," capturing Melbourne band Kingswood on tour. The final 90-minute film focuses on pure observation, without voice-overs or a traditional narrative. Newton's raw and evolving footage gives the documentary a unique, intimate feel, highlighting the band's dynamics and on-stage performances. The film, made on a $50,000 budget, shows the band's commitment and passion for their music. "Claptrap" screens at the Melbourne Documentary Film Festival on July 25 and 28.

From: Filmink

Chris Nash’s Fresh Forest Kills

Chris Nash’s directorial debut, "In a Violent Nature," offers a unique twist on the slasher genre by presenting the story from the killer’s perspective. Inspired by Gus Van Sant's films, Nash focuses on pure observation and character-driven pacing. The film, featuring nuanced characters and intense gore, has received mixed reactions, with critics more favourable than audiences. Nash credits the actors for their contributions to the character depth and highlights the challenges of the low-budget production.

From: Filmink

Ample Entertainment’s Ari Mark talks about natural selection in the doc space

Ample Entertainment's co-founder, Ari Mark, discusses their wildlife reality show "The Hungry Games: Alaska’s Big Bear Challenge" for Peacock, co-produced with Blue Ant Media's Love Nature. Despite the challenging commissioning environment, Mark believes adaptable producers will thrive beyond 2025. Ample's experience in true crime documentaries has informed their unique approach to natural history, seen previously in the Emmy-nominated "Kangaroo Valley" for Netflix.

From: C21

Nippon TV’s ClaN, Hello Kitty owner Sanrio target virtual YouTuber growth

Nippon TV's ClaN Entertainment and Sanrio Company have partnered to expand their virtual YouTuber (VTuber) business. Following their joint project, Nyantasia!, they aim to lead the global VTuber market. The alliance seeks to provide high-frequency, interactive experiences and enhance Sanrio's digital strategy. ClaN has raised 850 million yen to develop its influencer business, leveraging Sanrio's IP expertise for global expansion.

From: C21

‘The Brutalist’ Director Brady Corbet on Making His 215-Minute 70mm Epic and Including an Intermission

Brady Corbet, director of "The Brutalist," is figuring out how to deliver his film to the Venice Film Festival, where it will debut next month. The 215-minute epic about a Holocaust survivor's new life in America will be shown in 70mm, requiring 26 reels of film in four Pelican cases, weighing around 300 pounds, to be transported from Los Angeles to Italy. Corbet, who shot his previous films "Vox Lux" and "The Childhood of a Leader" on celluloid, resists digital formats. He believes 70mm is perfect for his story, which spans from WWII to the 1980s, echoing the widescreen classics of the 1950s.

From: Variety

Kevin Feige Defends Sequels as an ‘Absolute Pillar of the Industry,’ Says Marvel First Thought ‘Avengers’ Could Only Work as Animated Film

When Kevin Feige last took the stage at San Diego Comic-Con in 2022, the Hall H attendees greeted the Marvel Studios chief creative officer and president with deafening cheers, akin to the welcomes for Tony Stark or Steve Rogers. After the crowd quieted, a fan shouted, "We love you 3,000," repurposing a line from “Avengers: Endgame.” Few studio executives have ever received such adulation. Since 2008's “Iron Man” and “The Incredible Hulk,” Feige's vision for the Marvel Cinematic Universe has involved numerous directors, writers, actors, and artisans, grossing over $29 billion worldwide.

From: Variety

Comic-Con 2024 Schedule: The Top Movie & TV Panels And Events In San Diego

San Diego Comic-Con has released its full schedule for 2024, running from July 25-28, centered at the San Diego Convention Center but taking over the entire city. After a subdued event last year due to Hollywood strikes, this year promises a return to its usual excitement, with Marvel Studios back in Hall H for two events: a Thursday panel for Deadpool & Wolverine, coinciding with its theater release, and a Saturday showcase of the Marvel Cinematic Universe. Other major panels include Transformers One, The Lord of the Rings: The Rings of Power, Doctor Who, Anne Rice's universes, Star Trek, and The Walking Dead.

From: Deadline