Hacks: Every Thursday at 9pm on HBO Max.

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The A-List Filmmakers Evangelizing Movie Theaters

Wed, 08 Apr 2026 08:00:00 -0000

Matt is joined by Cinema United President and CEO Michael O’Leary to discuss their new filmmakers council including Jerry Bruckheimer, Emma Thomas, and Ryan Coogler, what this council plans to accomplish, the promising start at the 2026 box office, if we are seeing a shift in the types of movies that are getting made, and how they plan to improve the moviegoing experience (02:32). Matt finishes the show with a prediction about the release dates of 'Dune: Part Three' and ‘Avengers: Doomsday’ (28:57).

Host: Matt Belloni

Guest: Michael O’Leary

Producers: Craig Horlbeck, Jon Jones, and Matt Pevic

Theme Song: Devon Renaldo

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Hacks returns April 9 on HBO Max.

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Does the Surprise Writers Guild Deal Mean Labor Peace in Hollywood?

Tue, 07 Apr 2026 01:05:00 -0000

Matt is joined by labor lawyer, journalist, and author Jonathan Handel to break down how the WGA reached a tentative deal with the AMPTP earlier than expected and what was won—including significant health care increases and AI protections—as well as a surprising agreement to a four-year deal instead of three years. They discuss if this deal is ultimately a win for the WGA and if this will lead to labor peace across other guilds (2:30). Matt finishes the show with a prediction about late-night talk shows (28:57).

Host: Matt Belloni

Guest: Jonathan Handel

Producers: Craig Horlbeck and Matt Pevic

Theme Song: Devon Renaldo

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Are Movies Actually Getting Longer? We Found Out.

Fri, 03 Apr 2026 08:00:00 -0000

Matt is joined by film producer Todd Garner to discuss if movies are actually getting longer. Todd provides a study of over 3,600 films from 1980-2025 to reveal which genres have gotten longer over the years, and by how much. They discuss a surprising trend among action films, why auteur-driven films are getting longer, and the increase in the percentage of movies over two and a half hours. Todd provides his expertise as an experienced producer and executive in Hollywood to help outline what the movie length discussions are like among studios, how they differ from streamers, and if this is a problem for movie theaters (2:42). Matt finishes the show with an opening weekend box office prediction for A24’s new film ‘The Drama’ (27:10).

Host: Matt Belloni

Guest: Lucas Shaw

Producers: Craig Horlbeck and Matt Pevic

Theme Song: Devon Renaldo

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Why Hollywood Needs Books More Than Ever

Wed, 01 Apr 2026 23:14:00 -0000

Matt is joined by Jason Richman, UTA partner and cohead of media rights, to talk about the recent success of high-profile book adaptations at the box office ('Project Hail Mary,' 'Wuthering Heights,' 'The Housemaid'), why the long-standing Hollywood strategy of adapting books into films went away and is now back, the rise of female-focused authors, why this is leading to more power for book rights holders, what genres are most popular, and more (00:00). Matt finishes the show with an opening weekend box office prediction for ‘The Super Mario Galaxy Movie’ (27:23).

Host: Matt Belloni

Guest: Jason Richman

Producers: Craig Horlbeck and Jon Jones

Theme Song: Devon Renaldo

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Netflix’s Price Hike and Opening Day Debut. Plus, HBO's ‘Harry Potter’ and the Millennial Nostalgia Era.

Mon, 30 Mar 2026 22:49:00 -0000

Matt is joined by Bloomberg’s Lucas Shaw to discuss why Netflix has raised its prices twice in the past 18 months and the growing prominence of ad tiers on streaming services. They also talk about Opening Day baseball airing on Netflix, the surging MLB ratings, and who might be the biggest buyer for baseball rights in 2028 (00:00). Matt finishes the show with a prediction about the new HBO 'Harry Potter' series (25:20).

Host: Matt Belloni

Guest: Lucas Shaw

Producers: Craig Horlbeck and Jon Jones

Theme Song: Devon Renaldo

The Clyburn family searches for connection in Montana's Madison Valley. The Madison, New Series now streaming - only on Paramount+

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Can D.C. Save Hollywood? Senator Adam Schiff on Bringing Production Home.

Fri, 27 Mar 2026 01:15:00 -0000

Matt is joined by United States Senator Adam Schiff (D-California) to discuss his recent hearing with entertainment industry and labor leaders on the challenges facing the film industry and the importance of instituting a federal tax incentive to bring film and TV production back to California. They talk about how the production slowdown has hurt the city of Los Angeles, why California is not as aggressive in offering tax incentives as other states and countries, and what the federal tax credit would entail. They discuss where Schiff stands on the Warner Bros.–Paramount merger, the Los Angeles mayoral race, and more (00:00). Matt finishes the show with a prediction about the venue of the Academy Awards moving from Hollywood to downtown L.A. in 2029 (29:31).

Host: Matt Belloni

Guest: Adam Schiff

Producers: Craig Horlbeck and Jon Jones

Theme Song: Devon Renaldo

The Clyburn family searches for connection in Montana's Madison Valley. The Madison, New Series now streaming - only on Paramount+

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Sora Is Dead: What Does That Mean for Disney? Plus, ‘The Bachelorette’ Scandal.

Wed, 25 Mar 2026 21:40:00 -0000

Matt is joined by Alex Heath from the Sources newsletter and Access podcast to discuss the end of Disney’s deal with OpenAI after they announced the shutdown of video app Sora. They get into why OpenAI is changing course, AI companies' relationship with Hollywood, and what this means for Disney. They also discuss the massive layoffs at Epic Games and how this move affects Disney's future as a major investor in the video game company (00:00). Matt finishes the show with a prediction about the future of the 'Bachelor' franchise after the Taylor Frankie Paul scandal (22:49).

Host: Matt Belloni

Guest: Alex Heath

Producers: Craig Horlbeck and Jon Jones

Theme Song: Devon Renaldo

The Clyburn family searches for connection in Montana's Madison Valley. The Madison, New Series now streaming - only on Paramount+

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Gosling, MBJ, Timmy, and the Biggest Movie Stars Under 50 Power Ranking

Mon, 23 Mar 2026 23:20:00 -0000

Matt is joined by Bloomberg’s Lucas Shaw to discuss the massive weekend at the box office for ‘Project Hail Mary’ and use this as an opportunity to revisit the movie star power ranking. They sourced producers and executives around town and created their ranking of movie stars they believe are the biggest box office draw in Hollywood (00:00). Matt finishes the show with a prediction about the premiere of new Yellowstone sequel ‘Dutton Ranch’ (28:49).

Host: Matt Belloni

Guest: Lucas Shaw

Producers: Craig Horlbeck and Jon Jones

Theme Song: Devon Renaldo

The Clyburn family searches for connection in Montana's Madison Valley. The Madison, New Series now streaming - only on Paramount+

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Secrets to Commercial Filmmaking With 'The Housemaid' Director Paul Feig

Fri, 20 Mar 2026 08:00:00 -0000

Matt is joined by director and writer Paul Feig ('A Simple Favor,' 'Bridesmaids,' 'Spy') to discuss his latest movie, ‘The Housemaid.’ They dive into why he thinks the movie was so successful, what’s behind his high career hit rate, his unique process (including why he loves test screenings), and the keys to commercial success (00:00). Matt finishes the show by answering an industry-related question from Craig (28:29).

Host: Matt Belloni

Guest: Paul Feig

Producers: Craig Horlbeck and Jon Jones

Theme Song: Devon Renaldo

The Clyburn family searches for connection in Montana's Madison Valley. The Madison, New Series now streaming - only on Paramount+

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The NFL's Billion-Dollar Cash Grab and Whether There’s Any Left for Film and TV

Wed, 18 Mar 2026 23:22:00 -0000

Matt is joined by CNBC sports and media reporter Alex Sherman to discuss the NFL reopening its rights deal with Paramount and CBS, why it did this, and how this could affect the broader sports and entertainment landscape moving forward (00:00). Matt finishes the show with an opening weekend box office prediction for ‘Project Hail Mary’ (28:59).

Hosts: Matt Belloni

Guest: Alex Sherman

Producers: Craig Horlbeck and Jon Jones

Theme Song: Devon Renaldo

The Clyburn family searches for connection in Montana's Madison Valley. The Madison, New Series now streaming - only on Paramount+

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Oscars Winners and Losers, and Universal’s Pivot to Keep Movies in Theaters Longer

Mon, 16 Mar 2026 23:51:00 -0000

Matt is joined by Bloomberg’s Lucas Shaw to recap last night’s Academy Awards, including what the show was like from inside the theater, and give their biggest winners and losers of the night (00:00). Then they discuss Universal Studios guaranteeing theaters a minimum of five weekends of exclusive play for new movies starting immediately, and eventually moving to seven weekends starting in 2027 (19:39). Matt finishes the show with more takeaways from the Oscars and recaps his best and worst picks (27:26).

Hosts: Matt Belloni

Guest: Lucas Shaw

Producers: Craig Horlbeck and Jon Jones

Theme Song: Devon Renaldo

The Clyburn family searches for connection in Montana's Madison Valley. The Madison, New Series now streaming - only on Paramount+

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How to De-Age the Oscars with Amelia Dimoldenberg

Fri, 13 Mar 2026 08:00:00 -0000

Matt is joined by host, producer and writer Amelia Dimoldenberg to preview this year's Oscars red carpet as the official Academy Awards Red Carpet Correspondent, how she prepares to interview A list stars, and the Oscars moving to YouTube in 2029. They talk about the business behind her popular YouTube show ‘Chicken Shop Date’, her new romantic comedy, and more (24:41).

Host: Matt Belloni

Guest: Amelia Dimoldenberg

Producers: Craig Horlbeck and Jon Jones

Theme Song: Devon Renaldo

The Clyburn family searches for connection in Montana's Madison Valley. The Madison, New Series streaming March 14th - only on Paramount+.

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Why the Biggest Oscar Party Is Cutting Its Guest List in Half

Thu, 12 Mar 2026 08:00:00 -0000

Matt is joined by Mark Guiducci, the new global editorial director of Vanity Fair, to talk about his plan for a new and improved Oscar party and why he is downsizing the event and cutting the guest list by 50 percent. Mark talks about the evolution of the party since it started 31 years ago, how he plans to revitalize the party, moving to a new venue, how the world of magazines has changed, and the evolution of magazine journalism (00:00). Matt finishes the show with a prediction for the ratings for this year's Academy Awards (26:21).

Host: Matt Belloni

Guest: Mark Guiducci

Producers: Craig Horlbeck and Jon Jones

Theme Song: Devon Renaldo

The Clyburn family searches for connection in Montana's Madison Valley. The Madison, New Series streaming March 14th - only on Paramount+.

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Oscars Preview! Timmy Trouble, a ‘Sinners’ Surge, and a Big Lead for 'One Battle'

Wed, 11 Mar 2026 08:00:00 -0000

Matt is joined by Mosaic talent manager and Oscars insider Michael Lasker to preview the 2026 Academy Awards. They parse the biggest narratives Hollywood will be watching closely, like Timothée Chalamet’s latest slide in the Best Actor category, whether the late-season surge for ‘Sinners’ should be taken seriously, if the big lead for 'One Battle After Another' is shrinking, and other races that could surprise you on Sunday night (00:00). Matt finishes the show with a prediction about Paramount president Jeff Shell (30:09).

Host: Matt Belloni

Guest: Michael Lasker

Producers: Craig Horlbeck, Jon Jones

Theme Song: Devon Renaldo

The Clyburn family searches for connection in Montana's Madison Valley. The Madison, New Series streaming March 14th - only on Paramount+.

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Why Netflix Bought Ben Affleck’s AI Company, and If Hollywood Should Worry

Mon, 09 Mar 2026 21:36:00 -0000

Matt is joined by Bloomberg’s Lucas Shaw to discuss Netflix’s acquisition of InterPositive, Ben Affleck’s AI-powered filmmaking tool company, the messaging around the deal, and what this says about Netflix’s future involvement in the AI space (00:00). They also discuss the Live Nation settlement with the DOJ (00:00) before ending the show with a 2026 Box Office Draft bomb re-selection for Lucas (24:16).

Hosts: Matt Belloni

Guest: Lucas Shaw

Producers: Craig Horlbeck and Jon Jones

Theme Song: Devon Renaldo

The Clyburn family searches for connection in Montana's Madison Valley. The Madison, New Series streaming March 14th - only on Paramount+.

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Fri, 27 Feb 2026 22:19:00 -0000

Emergency episode! Matt is joined by Bloomberg’s Lucas Shaw to react to Netflix pulling out of the Warner Bros sweepstakes after Paramount raised its bid to $31 per share, bringing the overall offer to $111B. They break down why this happened, why Netflix abruptly backed out, if this deal will close, what this means for Hollywood, how powerful the new Ellison mega platform can be, and what comes next.

Host: Matt Belloni

Guest: Lucas Shaw

Producers: Craig Horlbeck, Jessie Lopez, and Jon Jones

Theme Song: Devon Renaldo

AVATAR: FIRE AND ASH. FOR YOUR CONSIDERATION.

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The Retro Innovation of ‘The Pitt,’ With Lead Producer John Wells

Thu, 26 Feb 2026 09:00:00 -0000

Matt is joined by John Wells, executive producer of ‘The Pitt,’ to discuss how ‘The Pitt’ is reviving an old model of television and why it is considered innovative in 2026. John talks about how the show is made, the benefits of filming in Los Angeles, and whether streaming TV is going back to the broadcast model (00:00). Matt finishes the show with an opening weekend box office prediction for ‘Scream 7’ (28:30).

Host: Matt Belloni

Guest: John Wells

Producers: Craig Horlbeck, Jessie Lopez, and Jon Jones

Theme Song: Devon Renaldo

AVATAR: FIRE AND ASH. FOR YOUR CONSIDERATION.

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Part 2: Sony Film CEO on Marvel’s Decline and Hollywood’s Originality Crisis

Tue, 24 Feb 2026 09:00:00 -0000

Live from the American Film Institute, Matt is joined by Bloomberg’s Lucas Shaw and the CEO of Sony Film Tom Rothman to discuss the future of the Spider Man franchise, Marvel’s recent struggles, if movie stars should make movies for streamers, and the biggest crisis facing the movie industry right now. Matt finishes the show with a prediction about who will be cast as the next James Bond.

Host: Matt Belloni

Guest: Lucas Shaw, Tom Rothman

Producers: Craig Horlbeck, Jessie Lopez, and Jon Jones

Theme Song: Devon Renaldo

AVATAR: FIRE AND ASH. FOR YOUR CONSIDERATION.

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Sony Film CEO on Losing ‘Sinners’ and the Endless Big Tech Battle

Mon, 23 Feb 2026 20:28:00 -0000

Live from the American Film Institute, Matt is joined by Bloomberg’s Lucas Shaw and the CEO of Sony Film, Tom Rothman, to discuss why now is the fifth moment of crisis in the history of the movie industry, how large-scale tech companies have disrupted Hollywood, reasons for optimism, legacy studios vs. streamers, and the future of the 'Spider-Man' franchise.

Host: Matt Belloni

Guest: Lucas Shaw, Tom Rothman

Producers: Craig Horlbeck, Jessie Lopez, and Jon Jones

Theme Song: Devon Renaldo

AVATAR: FIRE AND ASH. FOR YOUR CONSIDERATION.

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Why the Former Sony Head Blames Himself for the Infamous Hack

Fri, 20 Feb 2026 09:00:00 -0000

Matt is joined by Michael Lynton, former head of Sony Pictures and current chairman of Snap Inc., to open up about his regrets greenlighting the movie ‘The Interview,' which ultimately led to the infamous Sony hack. Michael walks us through the unique scenario that led to him greenlighting the film, what he should have done differently, and highlights some of the challenges that come with dealing with A-list talent (00:00). Matt finishes the show with a prediction about the Best Actor race for this year's Academy Awards (26:55).

Host: Matt Belloni

Guest: Michael Lynton

Producers: Craig Horlbeck, Jessie Lopez, and Jon Jones

Theme Song: Devon Renaldo

ZOOTOPIA 2. FOR YOUR CONSIDERATION FOR BEST ANIMATED FEATURE.

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Netflix CEO Ted Sarandos Makes the Case for Buying Warner Bros.

Wed, 18 Feb 2026 23:43:00 -0000

Matt is joined by Netflix Co-CEO Ted Sarandos to discuss why they reopened the Warner Bros. sale process for 7 days, why he thinks the Netflix bid is better for Warners Bros, consumers, and the industry at large, if they will commit to a theatrical window and robust marketing spends for Warner Bros. films, and much more.

Host: Matt Belloni

Guest: Ted Sarandos

Producers: Craig Horlbeck, Jessie Lopez, and Jon Jones

Theme Song: Devon Renaldo

ZOOTOPIA 2. FOR YOUR CONSIDERATION FOR BEST ANIMATED FEATURE.

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The Casey Wasserman Scandal, and Who Wants to Buy His Agency

Tue, 17 Feb 2026 23:42:00 -0000

Matt is joined by Bloomberg’s Lucas Shaw to discuss Casey Wasserman putting his company up for sale, why this happened, the Hollywood jockeying at play, and who the potential buyers might be (00:00). Matt finishes the show with a prediction about Paramount’s next bid to acquire Warner Bros (24:35).

Host: Matt Belloni

Guest: Lucas Shaw

Producers: Craig Horlbeck, Jessie Lopez, and Jon Jones

Theme Song: Devon Renaldo

ZOOTOPIA 2. FOR YOUR CONSIDERATION FOR BEST ANIMATED FEATURE.

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Should Hollywood Take the Microdrama Boom Seriously?

Thu, 12 Feb 2026 16:18:00 -0000

Matt is joined by Shicong Zhu, head of West Coast Studios at DramaBox, to discuss just how successful and profitable vertical micro-dramas have become, how they are produced so cheaply, the genres that work best for vertical video, and whether this is a threat to traditional Hollywood filmmaking (00:00). Matt finishes the show with an opening weekend box office prediction for ‘Wuthering Heights,’ ‘Goat,’ and ‘Crime 101’ (25:47).

Host: Matt Belloni

Guest: Shicong Zhu

Producers: Craig Horlbeck, Jessie Lopez, and Jon Jones

Theme Song: Devon Renaldo

AVATAR: FIRE AND ASH. FOR YOUR CONSIDERATION.

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Jeff Probst on What It Takes to Produce ‘Survivor’

Wed, 11 Feb 2026 09:00:00 -0000

Matt is joined by ‘Survivor’ host and showrunner Jeff Probst to go behind the scenes of one of America’s most iconic reality television shows and discuss how the show has sustained its success for 50 seasons, the complicated production challenges, how much the show costs, casting, and why no one has managed to replicate it (00:00). Matt finishes the show with a prediction about Timothée Chalamet after visiting the Oscars luncheon (33:24).

Host: Matt Belloni

Guest: Jeff Probst

Producers: Craig Horlbeck, Jessie Lopez, and Jon Jones

Theme Song: Devon Renaldo

AVATAR: FIRE AND ASH. FOR YOUR CONSIDERATION.

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Netflix in the Senate Hot Seat, and Disney’s Demographic Problem

Wed, 11 Feb 2026 01:52:00 -0000

Matt is joined by Bloomberg’s Lucas Shaw to get his thoughts after attending the Netflix hearing in front of the Senate Judiciary Committee’s Antitrust Subcommittee examining the proposed acquisition of Warner Bros. by Netflix. They discuss the most valid arguments made during the hearing, Ted Sarandos’s comments on theatrical distribution, and if Paramount has any chance to still win the bidding war (00:00). Later, they discuss new Disney CEO Josh D’Maro’s biggest problems to hurdle as he ushers in a new era at Disney (15:54). Finally, Matt makes a prediction about Casey Wasserman’s involvement in the 2028 Olympics (27:16).

Producers: Craig Horlbeck, Jessie Lopez, and Jon Jones

Theme Song: Devon Renaldo

AVATAR: FIRE AND ASH. FOR YOUR CONSIDERATION.

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The Behind-the-Scenes Jockeying for $10M Super Bowl Ads

Thu, 05 Feb 2026 16:26:00 -0000

Matt is joined by Adweek’s Bill Bradley to discuss the expensive and competitive battle of Super Bowl advertising. Bill breaks down how many ad slots are available each year, how much they cost, which parts of the game are the most lucrative, why A-lister fees for commercial cameos are going down, what’s up with those Jesus ads you see every year, the ad auction if the game goes into overtime, and more (00:00). Matt finishes the show with a Super Bowl ratings prediction (26:41).

Host: Matt Belloni
Guest: Bill Bradley

Producers: Craig Horlbeck, Jessie Lopez, and Jon Jones
Theme Song: Devon Renaldo

ZOOTOPIA 2. FOR YOUR CONSIDERATION FOR BEST ANIMATED FEATURE.

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What Disney’s CEO Choice Reveals About Its Next Chapter

Wed, 04 Feb 2026 00:41:00 -0000

Matt is joined by LightShed media analyst Rich Greenfield to react to Disney hiring Josh D’Amaro as its next CEO. They discuss why Disney chose the head of Disney Parks in D’Amaro rather than its cochairman of entertainment in Dana Walden, what this says about the company's priorities moving forward, whether now is the right time for Bob Iger to leave, and whether this is the beginning of a reevaluation of Disney’s entire business strategy. They also discuss why this decision could be seen as a reflection of the current state of the entertainment business (00:00).

Matt finishes the show with an opening weekend box office prediction for ‘Dracula’ (27:47).

Producers: Craig Horlbeck, Jessie Lopez, and Jon Jones

Theme Song: Devon Renaldo

ZOOTOPIA 2. FOR YOUR CONSIDERATION FOR BEST ANIMATED FEATURE.

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Netflix's Growth, Peacock's Struggles, and the New Streaming Hierarchy

Tue, 03 Feb 2026 00:21:00 -0000

The Town is on video! Subscribe to our new YouTube channel HERE!

Matt and Bloomberg’s Lucas Shaw parse through the final batch of year-end streaming reports and bring their most interesting stats and story lines to debate what they say about the state of streaming. They discuss the overwhelming success of 'KPop Demon Hunters,' Peacock’s disastrous Q4, the power of syndicated TV shows, and the new streaming hierarchy (00:00).

Matt finishes the show with a prediction about Disney theme parks (30:20).

Producers: Craig Horlbeck, Jessie Lopez, and Jon Jones

Theme Song: Devon Renaldo

ZOOTOPIA 2. FOR YOUR CONSIDERATION FOR BEST ANIMATED FEATURE.

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How a YouTuber Took His Self-Financed Movie Wide Without a Studio

Fri, 30 Jan 2026 10:08:00 -0000

Matt is joined by YouTuber Mark Fischbach (also known as Markiplier) to discuss his new movie, ‘Iron Lung,' why he adapted a low-budget indie horror video game, and how he self-financed the film and pulled off a wide release without a studio attached. Later, Mark talks about the state of the creator economy, YouTube vs. Netflix, and whether his model is viable path for other up-and-coming creators (01:31). Matt finishes the show with a ratings prediction for the Grammy Awards (25:45).

For a 20 percent discount on Matt’s Hollywood insider newsletter, ‘What I’m Hearing ...,’ ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠click here⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠.
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Host: Matt Belloni
Guest: Mark Fischbach

Producers: Craig Horlbeck, Jessie Lopez, and Jon Jones
Theme Song: Devon Renaldo

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The Life of a ‘White Lotus’ Producer, and the ‘Jury Duty’ Sequel Revealed

Thu, 29 Jan 2026 09:00:00 -0000

Matt is joined by producer Dave Bernad to pull back the curtain on what goes into producing 'The White Lotus' and 'Jury Duty' and discuss the challenges and misconceptions around the former show. He also talks about his old-school path to success in the industry, his past projects, and the appetite for comedy (01:40). Matt finishes the show with an opening weekend box office prediction for ‘Send Help’ (29:30).

For a 20 percent discount on Matt’s Hollywood insider newsletter, ‘What I’m Hearing ...,’ ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠click here⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠.
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Host: Matt Belloni
Guest: Dave Bernad

Producers: Craig Horlbeck, Jessie Lopez, and Jon Jones
Theme Song: Devon Renaldo

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Sundance ’26 Bidding Wars and ‘Melania’ Box Office Prospects

Mon, 26 Jan 2026 23:44:00 -0000

Live from the last Sundance Film Festival in Park City, Matt is joined by John Sloss, founder and CEO of Cinetic Media, to discuss how the Sundance experience has changed over the past 40 years, how the market has changed in just the past three years, who the hungriest buyers are, young filmmakers' opinions on streaming vs. theatrical, and how Harvey Weinstein changed the awards film genre (01:30). Matt finishes the show with an early opening weekend box office prediction for the ‘Melania’ documentary (26:06).

For a 20 percent discount on Matt’s Hollywood insider newsletter, ‘What I’m Hearing ...,’ ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠click here⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠.
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Host: Matt Belloni
Guest: John Sloss

Producers: Craig Horlbeck, Jessie Lopez, and Jon Jones
Theme Song: Devon Renaldo

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Oscar Noms ‘26! Five Big Takeaways and Industry Narratives.

Thu, 22 Jan 2026 22:15:00 -0000

Matt is joined by New York Times reporter and awards season columnist Kyle Buchanan to discuss the biggest industry narratives surrounding this year's Academy Awards nominations (01:29). Matt finishes the show with an opening weekend box office prediction for the new Chris Pratt film, ‘Mercy’ (31:58).

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The Last Sundance (in Park City) and Why Boulder?

Wed, 21 Jan 2026 09:00:00 -0000

Matt is joined by Eugene Hernandez, director of the Sundance Film Festival, to discuss the last year in Park City, the decision to leave Utah, and what we can expect in Boulder, Colorado. Later, they share some of their favorite stories from their time at the festival over the years (01:30). Matt finishes the show with a prediction about the biggest acquisition at Sundance this year (25:38).

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Host: Matt Belloni
Guest: Eugene Hernandez

Producers: Craig Horlbeck and Jessie Lopez
Theme Song: Devon Renaldo

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The 2026 Box Office Draft

Mon, 19 Jan 2026 09:00:00 -0000

Matt is joined by Bloomberg’s Lucas Shaw to conduct the fourth annual box office draft. Matt and Lucas each draft seven blockbuster movies set to be released in 2026 with the goal of making the most money possible against the production budget. Plus, an added twist that allows each person to saddle the other's team with a movie they believe will flop.

Follow along with Matt and Lucas here!

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Actors vs. Studios, and the Existential AI War, With SAG-AFTRA Lead Negotiator

Thu, 15 Jan 2026 22:55:00 -0000

Matt is joined by national executive director and chief negotiator for SAG-AFTRA Duncan Crabtree-Ireland to discuss the union's upcoming negotiations with the AMPTP, the possibility of another strike, what he wants to achieve in this negotiation, why they are starting their negotiations before other guilds, the state of AI disruptions, and what the actors actually want in their new CBA (01:21). Matt finishes the show with an updated prediction on who will win the bidding for Warner Bros. Discovery (33:06).

For a 20 percent discount on Matt’s Hollywood insider newsletter, ‘What I’m Hearing ...,’ ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠click here⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠.
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Host: Matt Belloni
Guest: Duncan Crabtree-Ireland

Producers: Craig Horlbeck and Jessie Lopez
Theme Song: Devon Renaldo

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'Zootopia 2,' China, AI, and the Battle for Originals With the Head of Disney Animation

Wed, 14 Jan 2026 09:00:00 -0000

Matt is joined by Jared Bush, the writer and codirector of Zootopia 2 and chief creative officer of Walt Disney Animation Studios, to discuss the smash-hit sequel, its incredible success in China, the state of original animated films in theaters, AI and other challenges facing the animation industry, incorporating adult humor into animated films, the plans for a third and fourth 'Frozen,' and more (02:00). Matt finishes the show with an opening weekend box office prediction for '28 Years Later: The Bone Temple' (31:49).

For a 20 percent discount on Matt’s Hollywood insider newsletter, ‘What I’m Hearing ...,’ ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠click here⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠.
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Host: Matt Belloni
Guest: Jared Bush

Producers: Craig Horlbeck and Jessie Lopez
Theme Song: Devon Renaldo

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The Shameless Golden Globes, and Paramount Takes Warner Bros. to Court

Mon, 12 Jan 2026 23:30:00 -0000

Matt is joined by Bloomberg’s Lucas Shaw to react to Sunday's Golden Globe Awards, including the cringiest corporate moments and the studios and streamers that overperformed. Then, they discuss the latest move in the ongoing Warner Bros. Discovery saga, with Paramount filing a lawsuit seeking to force Warner to release more information about its merger agreement with Netflix, and their plan to launch a proxy fight (01:56). Matt finishes the show with a prediction about a few heavily favored Oscar contenders (26:44).

For a 20 percent discount on Matt’s Hollywood insider newsletter, ‘What I’m Hearing ...,’ ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠click here⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠.
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Host: Matt Belloni
Guest: Lucas Shaw

Producers: Craig Horlbeck and Jessie Lopez
Theme Song: Devon Renaldo

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Is Hollywood Broken? A Savvy Investor’s View of 2026.

Sat, 10 Jan 2026 01:35:00 -0000

Matt is joined by Jeff Sagansky—a longtime investor, executive, and producer—to discuss the current media landscape and how things are trending as we begin 2026. Jeff previews the M&A deal market for this year, makes the case for Warner Bros. surviving without a merger, shares what it’s like to be a producer in Hollywood right now, discusses the dark age of talent profit-sharing, and explains what investors appear most interested in this year (01:50). Matt then finishes the show with an opening weekend box office prediction for ‘Greenland 2: Migration’ and ‘Primate’ (30:31).

For a 20 percent discount on Matt’s Hollywood insider newsletter, ‘What I’m Hearing ...,’ ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠click here⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠.
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Host: Matt Belloni
Guest: Jeff Sagansky

Producers: Craig Horlbeck and Jessie Lopez
Theme Song: Devon Renaldo

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The 2025 Box Office Year in Review: Sydney and Timmy, Superheroes vs. Horror, and Studio Power Rankings

Wed, 07 Jan 2026 09:00:00 -0000

Matt is joined by Puck contributor and box office guru Scott Mendelson to recap the year in moviegoing, give his take on the general disappointment in domestic box office performance, and hand out awards like Surprise Hit of the Year, Surprise Miss, and the Great Legs Award. He also checks in on the state of superhero movies and the horror genre and gives final grades to each studio (01:38). Matt finishes the show with a prediction about the 2026 Golden Globes (38:58).

For a 20 percent discount on Matt’s Hollywood insider newsletter, ‘What I’m Hearing ...,’ ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠click here⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠.
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Host: Matt Belloni
Guest: Scott Mendelson

Producers: Craig Horlbeck and Jessie Lopez
Theme Song: Devon Renaldo

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2026 Burning Questions: Another Strike? Is 'Avengers: Doomsday' Doomed? And David Ellison’s Movie Taste.

Mon, 05 Jan 2026 23:14:00 -0000

Matt is joined by Bloomberg’s Lucas Shaw to ask their most burning questions for Hollywood in 2026, including whether another strike is imminent, how NFL rights negotiations will affect the shows and movies made for streaming, what types of movies David Ellison will make as the head of a major studio, whether Universal can unseat Disney as the box office champion for the first time in over a decade, and much more (01:34).

For a 20 percent discount on Matt’s Hollywood insider newsletter, ‘What I’m Hearing ...,’ ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠click here⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠.
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Host: Matt Belloni
Guest: Lucas Shaw

Producers: Craig Horlbeck and Jessie Lopez
Theme Song: Devon Renaldo

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Who Won (and Lost) the Year in Streaming?

Wed, 31 Dec 2025 09:00:00 -0000

Host: Matt Belloni
Guest: Julia Alexander

Producers: Craig Horlbeck and Jessie Lopez
Theme Song: Devon Renaldo

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The End-of-Year Exec Survey: Next Disney CEO, Where to Sell Your Movie, and Worst Media Exec

Mon, 29 Dec 2025 23:31:00 -0000

Matt is joined by Bloomberg’s Lucas Shaw to discuss the big Christmas weekend at the box office, including the big ‘Marty Supreme’ win and Sydney Sweeney’s box office bounce. Then they dive into Lucas’s recent Bloomberg survey polling 700 industry experts to answer the biggest burning questions around town, including who will end up owning Warner Bros., who will be the CEO of Disney in 2027, where you should sell your movie, and who is the worst CEO in media (01:42). Matt finishes the show with a prediction about whether we will get ‘Avatar 4’ (25:00).

For a 20 percent discount on Matt’s Hollywood insider newsletter, ‘What I’m Hearing ...,’ ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠click here⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠.
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Host: Matt Belloni
Guest: Lucas Shaw

Producers: Craig Horlbeck and Jessie Lopez
Theme Song: Devon Renaldo

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The Townies, Part 2: Who Won the Year in Hollywood?

Tue, 23 Dec 2025 09:00:00 -0000

In Part 2 of podcasting's biggest night, Matt and Bloomberg’s Lucas Shaw hand out the Executive Fail of the Year Award; the Savviest PR Move Award; the Mea Culpa I Was Wrong Award; the Suck It Haters, I Was Right Award; and the Biggest Self-Inflicted Wound Award. Then they declare which executive and talent won 2025 (00:07). Matt finishes the show with an opening weekend box office prediction for ‘Marty Supreme’ and ‘Anaconda’ (34:57).

For a 20 percent discount on Matt’s Hollywood insider newsletter, ‘What I’m Hearing ...,’ ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠click here⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠.
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Host: Matt Belloni
Guest: Lucas Shaw

Producers: Craig Horlbeck and Jessie Lopez
Theme Song: Devon Renaldo

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The Townies: Hollywood’s Best and Worst of 2025

Mon, 22 Dec 2025 09:00:00 -0000

It’s podcasting’s most exclusive event of the year: the fourth annual Townies! Join Matt and Bloomberg’s Lucas Shaw as they recap the year in Hollywood with exciting and hilarious categories like Biggest Flex, Most Destructive Behind-the-Scenes Drama, Most Baffling Success, Most Annoying Media Narrative, Deal of the Year, and much more in Part 1 of this year's Townies.

For a 20 percent discount on Matt’s Hollywood insider newsletter, ‘What I’m Hearing ...,’ ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠click here⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠.
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Host: Matt Belloni
Guest: Lucas Shaw

Producers: Craig Horlbeck and Jessie Lopez
Theme Song: Devon Renaldo

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Paramount Isn’t Giving up Warner Bros. to Netflix Just Yet

Thu, 18 Dec 2025 22:48:00 -0000

Matt is joined by Gerry Cardinale, founder and managing partner of RedBird Capital, to discuss Paramount’s bid for Warner Bros., why their bid is superior to Netflix’s bid, Larry Ellison and the Middle East's involvement, whether they will look to raise their bid, and what the next steps will be (02:33). Matt finishes the show with an opening weekend box office prediction for ‘Avatar: Fire and Ash' (29:44).

For a 20 percent discount on Matt’s Hollywood insider newsletter, ‘What I’m Hearing ...,’ ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠click here⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠.
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Host: Matt Belloni
Guest: Gerry Cardinale

Producers: Craig Horlbeck and Jessie Lopez
Theme Song: Devon Renaldo

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A Warner Bros. Antitrust Debate With Senator Elizabeth Warren, and the Oscars Go to... YouTube

Wed, 17 Dec 2025 22:35:00 -0000

Matt is joined by United States Senator Elizabeth Warren to discuss what should happen to Warner Bros., why it should not go to Netflix or Paramount Skydance, whether Democrats and Republicans could unite to block this sale, and how Hollywood should fight to survive in the era of big tech consolidation (02:08). Matt finishes the show reacting to the Oscars moving exclusively to YouTube in 2029 (25:29).

For a 20 percent discount on Matt’s Hollywood insider newsletter, ‘What I’m Hearing ...,’ ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠click here⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠.
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Host: Matt Belloni
Guest: Senator Elizabeth Warren

Producers: Craig Horlbeck and Jessie Lopez
Theme Song: Devon Renaldo

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Why Iger Gave OpenAI the Keys to Disney’s Vault

Tue, 16 Dec 2025 00:03:00 -0000

Matt is joined by Bloomberg’s Lucas Shaw to discuss Disney entering a licensing agreement with Sora and investing $1 billion in OpenAI. The deal allows OpenAI to use characters from Disney’s deep pocket of popular IP in its Sora AI video generator. They break down the details of the deal, why Disney did it, how CEO Bob Iger handled the announcement, whether other companies will follow suit, and what this means for the long-term tension between Hollywood and AI (03:12). Matt finishes the show with a prediction about Timothée Chalamet’s press tour and Oscar chances (26:25).

For a 20 percent discount on Matt’s Hollywood insider newsletter, ‘What I’m Hearing ...,’ ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠click here⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠.
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Host: Matt Belloni
Guest: Lucas Shaw

Producers: Craig Horlbeck and Jessie Lopez
Theme Song: Devon Renaldo

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Ariana in Wicked and How to Cast a Billion-Dollar Movie

Thu, 11 Dec 2025 09:00:00 -0000

Matt is joined by casting director Tiffany Little Canfield (‘Wicked’) to discuss casting major franchise roles that draw thousands of auditions like Elphaba and Glinda in ‘Wicked,’ the challenges of casting stars vs. unknowns, misconceptions about the casting process and how it has changed, Hollywood’s lack of young movie stars, the new achievement in casting Oscar, the best auditions she has ever seen, and other challenges of the casting process (02:06). Matt finishes the show with an opening weekend box office prediction for ‘Ella McCay’ (29:04).

For a 20 percent discount on Matt’s Hollywood insider newsletter, ‘What I’m Hearing ...,’ ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠click here⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠.
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Host: Matt Belloni
Guest: Tiffany Little Canfield

Producers: Craig Horlbeck and Jessie Lopez
Theme Song: Devon Renaldo

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The Ellison Empire Strikes Back: Paramount Goes Hostile

Tue, 09 Dec 2025 06:23:00 -0000

Matt is joined by Peter Supino from Wolfe Research to discuss Paramount launching a hostile takeover of Warner Bros., days after they agreed to a deal with Netflix. Peter maps out the differences in each bid and makes the case for and against each bidder. They also talk about the latest comments by David Ellison, Ted Sarandos, and Donald Trump, where the financials are coming from for Paramount-Skydance, and ultimately who has the upper hand (02:27). Matt finishes the show with a prediction about the 2026 Golden Globes (27:30).
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Host: Matt Belloni
Guest: Peter Supino

Producers: Craig Horlbeck and Jessie Lopez
Theme Song: Devon Renaldo

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Netflix Buys Warner Bros. Emergency Pod!!!

Sat, 06 Dec 2025 01:54:00 -0000

Matt is joined by Bloomberg’s Lucas Shaw to break down every angle of Netflix agreeing to buy the Warner Bros. film and streaming business. They dig into why Netflix made this deal, why David Ellison and Paramount lost out, the threat to moviemaking and movie theaters, what will happen to HBO Max, and possible roadblocks that could prevent this deal from going through.

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Host: Matt Belloni
Guest: Lucas Shaw

Producers: Craig Horlbeck and Jessie Lopez
Theme Song: Devon Renaldo

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Is Film School Still Worth It? With a Top Dean.

Fri, 05 Dec 2025 02:25:00 -0000

Matt is joined by Stephen Galloway, the dean of Chapman University’s Dodge College of Film and Media Arts, to discuss the state of film school education in 2025, how it has evolved, and the increasingly high tuition costs (02:22) Matt finishes the show by predicting whether 'Rush Hour 4' will actually get made (27:09).
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Host: Matt Belloni
Guest: Stephen Galloway
Producers: Craig Horlbeck and Jessie Lopez
Theme Song: Devon Renaldo

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Why the NFL (and Everything Else) Keeps Breaking Ratings Records

Thu, 04 Dec 2025 03:55:00 -0000

Matt is joined by Nielsen Global Media executive Brian Fuhrer to discuss why NFL ratings seem to be setting new viewership records all the time, how sports-ratings measurements have changed, why these numbers are so important for sports leagues, and which leagues are growing the fastest (02:35). Matt finishes the show with an opening weekend box office prediction for ‘Five Nights at Freddy's 2’ (26:35).

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Host: Matt Belloni
Guest: Brian Fuhrer

Producers: Craig Horlbeck and Jessie Lopez
Theme Song: Devon Renaldo

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Would Netflix Really Embrace Theaters to Buy Warner Bros.?

Tue, 02 Dec 2025 00:19:00 -0000

Matt is joined by Bloomberg's Lucas Shaw to discuss Lucas’s recent report that Netflix would continue to release Warner Bros. movies in theaters if it were to acquire Warner Bros. Discovery. They talk about whether they actually believe Netflix, how theatrical movies at Netflix would work, and possible conditions that could accompany a Netflix–Warner Bros. Discovery deal (03:07). Lucas sticks around to give an update on the 2025 box office draft and discuss the big opening weekend for ‘Zootopia 2’ (28:59).

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Host: Matt Belloni
Guest: Lucas Shaw
Producers: Craig Horlbeck and Jessie Lopez
Theme Song: Devon Renaldo

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Commercial Vs. Arthouse, Going Marvel, and Notes From Spielberg With ‘Hamnet’ Director Chloé Zhao

Fri, 28 Nov 2025 09:00:00 -0000

Live from Los Angeles, Matt is joined by director Chloe Zhao ('Hamnet') to discuss what she learned from Steven Spielberg producing her movie, how she developed her visual style, directing a Marvel movie, casting ‘Hamnet’, the COVID Oscars, and her plans to work in anime (00:41). Matt finishes the show with an opening weekend box office prediction for ‘Zootopia 2’ (21:45).

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Host: Matt Belloni
Guest: Chloe Zhao

Producers: Craig Horlbeck and Jessie Lopez
Theme Song: Devon Renaldo

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Part 2: James Cameron on ‘Avatar 4’ and ‘5,’ Movie Biz Fears, 3D, Netflix, and Aliens

Mon, 24 Nov 2025 21:00:00 -0000

In part two, Matt and director James Cameron talk about how much ‘Avatar’ really costs to produce, whether he has plans for a fourth and fifth movie, his relationship with Disney and Bob Iger, what COVID and streaming did to the industry, who should buy Warner Bros. (and why it’s definitely not Netflix), why 3D never took off, the Sphere, aliens, his director hang-out sessions, and much more.

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Host: Matt Belloni
Guest: James Cameron

Producers: Craig Horlbeck and Jessie Lopez
Theme Song: Devon Renaldo

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Part 1: James Cameron on Avatar Misconceptions, AI’s Skynet Moment, and His Elon Musk Friendship

Mon, 24 Nov 2025 09:00:00 -0000

Matt and director James Cameron sit down for a wide-ranging conversation on the misconceptions about the filmmaking of the 'Avatar' franchise, how it landed at Fox/Disney, why Jim prefers using performance capture technology, the cost of CGI, the threat of AI in Hollywood, his relationship with Elon Musk, whether Jim agrees that he is a “difficult” director, his deep-sea explorations, and more.

For a 20 percent discount on Matt’s Hollywood insider newsletter, ‘What I’m Hearing ...,’ ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠click here⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠.
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Host: Matt Belloni
Guest: James Cameron

Producers: Craig Horlbeck and Jessie Lopez
Theme Song: Devon Renaldo

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Did Hollywood Ever Have a Chance Against YouTube?

Thu, 20 Nov 2025 09:00:00 -0000

Matt is joined by Tom Freston, former CEO of Viacom and MTV Networks, to discuss why legacy companies missed the boat with YouTube in the early aughts, the similarities YouTube from the aughts shares with the AI boom of today, why MTV died, and whether it can be revived (02:13). Matt finishes the show with a prediction on the hottest story in town: Parmigiano Reggiano signing with UTA (25:57).

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Host: Matt Belloni
Guest: Tom Freston

Producers: Craig Horlbeck and Jessie Lopez
Theme Song: Devon Renaldo

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The Brewing Backlash to Hollywood Consolidation

Wed, 19 Nov 2025 09:00:00 -0000

Matt is joined by Jonathan Kanter, a lawyer who served as Assistant Attorney General for the Antitrust Division of the U.S. Department of Justice from 2021 to 2024, to look at the looming Warner Bros. Discovery sale from an antitrust perspective, highlight the biggest antitrust issues for each potential bidder (Paramount, Comcast, Netflix), whether consolidation is necessary to compete with Big Tech, the government’s influence over this merger, and the perilous state of existence for media companies in 2025 (02:28).

For a 20 percent discount on Matt’s Hollywood insider newsletter, ‘What I’m Hearing ...,’ ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠click here⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠.
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Host: Matt Belloni
Guest: Jonathan Kanter

Producers: Craig Horlbeck and Jessie Lopez
Theme Song: Devon Renaldo

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The Fall Box Office Crisis: A Phase, a Fluke, or the Future?

Mon, 17 Nov 2025 23:52:00 -0000

Matt is joined by Bloomberg’s Lucas Shaw to investigate a historically bad fall season at the box office by highlighting which issues are actually real and which are insignificant. They look at larger industry-wide trends, like the shortening of theatrical windows and the rise of streaming, as well as smaller, more recent developments like releasing independent movies wide rather than platforming them. They discuss whether the "movie-star problem" excuse is overblown or legitimate, as well as if this could simply be explained by judging the actual quality of the films themselves (02:33). Matt finishes the show with an Academy Awards prediction after attending the premiere of Netflix’s ‘Jay Kelly’ (25:54).

For a 20 percent discount on Matt’s Hollywood insider newsletter, ‘What I’m Hearing ...,’ ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠click here⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠.
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Host: Matt Belloni
Guest: Lucas Shaw

Producers: Craig Horlbeck and Jessie Lopez
Theme Song: Devon Renaldo

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Why Anime Is Becoming Undeniable in Hollywood

Fri, 14 Nov 2025 00:27:00 -0000

Matt is joined by Rahul Purini, the president of Crunchyroll, to discuss the anime boom both globally and in America, the rise of global streaming services and its role in spreading anime and manga content, and what is it about the anime content itself that appeals to audiences (03:49). Matt finishes the show with an opening weekend box office prediction for ‘The Running Man’ and ‘Now You See Me: Now You Don’t' (24:08).

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Host: Matt Belloni
Guest: Rahul Purini
Producers: Craig Horlbeck and Jessie Lopez
Theme Song: Devon Renaldo

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Tubi Takes on YouTube, and a Michael Jackson Movie Update

Wed, 12 Nov 2025 23:42:00 -0000

Matt is joined by Tubi CEO Anjali Sud to discuss how Tubi reached profitability, its push to bring in original creators, the growth of ad-supported streaming, how the FAST landscape is evolving, and why everyone is competing with YouTube (01:55). Later, Matt discusses a few details about the upcoming Michael Jackson biopic, ‘Michael,’ and gives an early prediction for how the movie will perform and whether there will be a sequel (26:20).

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Host: Matt Belloni
Guest: Anjali Sud

Producers: Craig Horlbeck and Jessie Lopez
Theme Song: Devon Renaldo

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YouTube vs. Disney: Who Needs Whom More?

Mon, 10 Nov 2025 22:56:00 -0000

Matt is joined by Bloomberg’s Lucas Shaw to discuss the ongoing dispute between YouTube and Disney, which has resulted in the removal of ESPN and other Disney properties from YouTube TV for the past week. They break down why this dispute is different from others that have come before it, focusing on the leverage a tech company like Google has over traditional cable operators. Later, they touch on the recent Warner Bros. Discovery earnings report and give an update on the state of the company's sale (03:04). Matt finishes the show with a prediction about Ryan Murphy’s newest TV show, ‘All’s Fair’ (22:08).

For a 20 percent discount on Matt’s Hollywood insider newsletter, ‘What I’m Hearing ...,’ ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠click here⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠.
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Host: Matt Belloni
Guest: Lucas Shaw

Producers: Craig Horlbeck and Jessie Lopez
Theme Song: Devon Renaldo

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Mailbag! 'Star Wars' and Soderbergh, the Best Home for Warner Bros., and Netflix vs. Theaters.

Wed, 05 Nov 2025 09:00:00 -0000

Matt opens up the mailbag for another Town Hall and answers listener questions about Disney turning down a Steven Soderbergh–penned 'Star Wars' script, the possibility of Netflix and Comcast splitting Warner Bros. Discovery, whether Netflix will ever release movies in theaters, who the best home for Warner Bros. is from the perspective of the talent community, and what will happen to 'The Challenge' and other MTV properties under David Ellison.

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Host: Matt Belloni
Producers: Craig Horlbeck and Jessie Lopez
Theme Song: Devon Renaldo

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The 2025 Movie Franchise Draft

Mon, 03 Nov 2025 09:00:00 -0000

Matt is joined by Bloomberg’s Lucas Shaw to draft which movie franchises they would most want to start a movie studio with in 2025. They each select five franchises, as well as one TV franchise, and make the case for why they are best suited to succeed over the next 10-20 years.

For a 20 percent discount on Matt’s Hollywood insider newsletter, ‘What I’m Hearing ...,’ ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠click here⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠.

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Host: Matt Belloni

Guest: Lucas Shaw

Producers: Craig Horlbeck and Jessie Lopez

Theme Song: Devon Renaldo

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Will Big Tech and AI Save or Kill Hollywood?

Thu, 30 Oct 2025 23:04:00 -0000

Matt is joined by Andrew Ross Sorkin ('Squawk Box,' The New York Times) to discuss how the tech boom has affected Hollywood and what new power players like David Ellison really want with the media industry. They also discuss the potential impact of the AI bubble bursting, whether the Middle East will ever make a big splash in Hollywood, and whether there is a case for consolidation in media (02:11). Matt finishes the show with a prediction about horror movies on streaming (28:08).

For a 20 percent discount on Matt’s Hollywood insider newsletter, ‘What I’m Hearing ...,’ ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠click here⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠.
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Host: Matt Belloni
Guest: Andrew Ross Sorkin

Producers: Craig Horlbeck and Jessie Lopez
Theme Song: Devon Renaldo

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The Risks and Rewards of Self-Distributing Movies, With Black Bear’s Teddy Schwarzman

Wed, 29 Oct 2025 23:24:00 -0000

Matt is joined by Teddy Schwarzman, the founder of Black Bear Pictures, to discuss the challenges and strategies behind an independent production company launching its own distribution division. They talk about the risk of making big bets on small movies in theaters, how the industry has evolved, and whether Teddy sees A24 and Neon as competitors (02:46). Matt finishes the show with an opening weekend box office prediction for Yorgos Lanthimos’s new film, ‘Bugonia’ (26:54).

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Host: Matt Belloni
Guest: Teddy Schwarzman

Producers: Craig Horlbeck and Jessie Lopez
Theme Song: Devon Renaldo

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Savvy or Desperate? NBCU Poaches Taylor Sheridan From Paramount.

Mon, 27 Oct 2025 21:51:00 -0000

Matt is joined by Bloomberg’s Lucas Shaw to discuss Matt’s report that Taylor Sheridan will be leaving Paramount to join NBCU starting in 2029. They break down the details of the deal, whether this should be considered savvy or desperate for NBCU and Peacock, how big of a risk this is, and whether this portends a larger splash coming from NBCU (02:40). Matt finishes the show with a prediction about the future of Jon Stewart and 'The Daily Show' (25:55).

For a 20 percent discount on Matt’s Hollywood insider newsletter, ‘What I’m Hearing ...,’ ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠click here⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠.
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Host: Matt Belloni
Guest: Lucas Shaw

Producers: Craig Horlbeck and Jessie Lopez
Theme Song: Devon Renaldo

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Do Standing Ovations at Film Festivals Mean Anything? The Town Investigates.

Thu, 23 Oct 2025 21:55:00 -0000

Matt is joined by film data analyst Stephen Follows to dig into one of Hollywood’s most ridiculous phenomenons, the film festival standing ovation. Stephen gathered over 500 reported standing ovations across five of the world’s biggest film festivals to see whether the length of applause tells us anything meaningful about a film’s future (02:26). Matt finishes the show with a prediction about the 25 shows eligible for Best Podcast at the Golden Globes (25:53).

For a 20 percent discount on Matt’s Hollywood insider newsletter, ‘What I’m Hearing ...,’ ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠click here⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠.
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Host: Matt Belloni
Guest: Stephen Follows

Producers: Craig Horlbeck and Jessie Lopez
Theme Song: Devon Renaldo

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Warner Bros. Is Officially for Sale. It's Paramount vs. ... Whom?

Wed, 22 Oct 2025 21:42:00 -0000

Matt is joined by Peter Supino, a managing director and senior analyst at Wolfe Research, to unpack the deal market for Warner Bros. Discovery, running through each potential bidder, who makes the most sense, and what a merger would look like in each scenario (03:13). Matt finishes the show with an opening weekend box office prediction for ‘Springsteen: Deliver Me From Nowhere’ (30:45).

For a 20 percent discount on Matt’s Hollywood insider newsletter, ‘What I’m Hearing ...,’ ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠click here⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠.
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Host: Matt Belloni
Guest: Peter Supino

Producers: Craig Horlbeck and Jessie Lopez
Theme Song: Devon Renaldo

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Netflix Adds Podcasts and Makes a Deal With AMC Theatres. Why?

Mon, 20 Oct 2025 22:58:00 -0000

Matt is joined by Bloomberg’s Lucas Shaw to discuss Netflix diving into the podcast business by striking a deal to stream a group of original podcasts from Spotify and The Ringer. They break down what this signals for the future of Netflix, the likelihood that people will watch podcasts on Netflix, and what’s in it for Spotify. Later, they touch on AMC and Netflix agreeing to rerelease ‘KPop Demon Hunters’ in theaters from October 31 through November 2, then dive into whether this marks the beginning of a new era for Netflix and theatrical releases (03:01). Matt finishes the show with a prediction about Formula One rights moving to Apple TV (27:34).

For a 20 percent discount on Matt’s Hollywood insider newsletter, ‘What I’m Hearing ...,’ ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠click here⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠.
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Host: Matt Belloni
Guest: Lucas Shaw

Producers: Craig Horlbeck and Jessie Lopez
Theme Song: Devon Renaldo

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Is the “Netflix of AI” App a Friend or Foe to Hollywood?

Thu, 16 Oct 2025 08:00:00 -0000

Matt is joined by Edward Saatchi, the CEO of a startup called Fable, to discuss his new product, Showrunner, which is backed by Amazon and bills itself as the “Netflix of AI.” The app allows users to create their own licensed versions of their favorite TV shows using AI. Edward explains why he feels this is the proper way to use AI in Hollywood, how the app will make money and pay artists, the guardrails to ensure this is used properly, and how Hollywood studios feel about this (02:39). Matt finishes the show with a prediction about the MLB playoffs (28:36).

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Host: Matt Belloni
Guest: Edward Saatchi

Producers: Craig Horlbeck and Jessie Lopez
Theme Song: Devon Renaldo

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Apple's True Intentions in Hollywood—With Top Exec Eddy Cue

Tue, 14 Oct 2025 21:36:00 -0000

Matt is joined by Apple senior vice president of services Eddy Cue to discuss all things Apple in Hollywood, including the latest momentum for the studio after big hits like ‘Severance,’ ‘The Studio,’ and ‘F1’; the business model of the streaming service; whether the company would ever bolster its library by acquiring a studio; its interest in sports rights; its commitment to releasing movies theatrically; and whether Apple is serious about sticking around in Hollywood for the long term (03:44). Matt finishes the show with an opening-weekend box office prediction for ‘The Black Phone 2’ (35:59).
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Host: Matt Belloni
Guest: Eddy Cue
Producers: Craig Horlbeck and Jessie Lopez
Theme Song: Devon Renaldo

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The Hollywood Stock Market: The Rock, Louis C.K., Kevin Feige, Sora 2, and More!

Mon, 13 Oct 2025 08:00:00 -0000

Live from Bloomberg’s Screentime event in L.A., Matt and Lucas Shaw make the case to buy or sell various entities across the entertainment industry, including the Rock, Comcast, Louis C.K., the Sora 2 freak-out, Glen Powell, Marvel, and more!

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Part 2: What Ari Emanuel Talks About With Trump and the Rock

Fri, 10 Oct 2025 16:56:00 -0000

In Part 2 of Matt’s conversation with WME executive chairman and TKO CEO Ari Emanuel and TKO president Mark Shapiro, they discuss how the NFL's next rights negotiations will influence the entertainment industry, how the UFC ended up with Paramount and why it almost went to Netflix, and Ari’s relationship with the Rock, David Ellison, and Donald Trump (01:35).

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Host: Matt Belloni
Guests: Ari Emanuel and Mark Shapiro

Producers: Craig Horlbeck and Jessie Lopez
Theme Song: Devon Renaldo

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Part 1 With Ari Emanuel and Mark Shapiro: AI, Live Events, and the Four-Day Work Week

Thu, 09 Oct 2025 22:24:00 -0000

Matt is joined by WME and TKOs Ari Emanuel and Mark Shapiro to discuss their new company, Mari. They talk about why they are betting on live experiences, the possibility of the four-day work week changing the way we live, the state of the talent business, and how we should be thinking about AI in Hollywood (03:33). Matt finishes the show with a prediction about the possibility of Netflix buying Warner Bros. (23:12).

Host: Matt Belloni
Guests: Ari Emanuel and Mark Shapiro

Producers: Craig Horlbeck and Jessie Lopez
Theme Song: Devon Renaldo

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David Ellison’s $150M Bet on Bari Weiss and a New-Look CBS News

Tue, 07 Oct 2025 22:04:00 -0000

Matt is joined by Semafor cofounder Ben Smith to discuss what to expect from CBS News in the David Ellison and Bari Weiss era. Ellison, the new owner of Paramount, has tasked 41-year-old Weiss to run its news division and also acquired her company The Free Press for $150 million. Matt and Ben talk about why David Ellison brought Weiss in, how she could influence CBS News, and what power a broadcast news brand even has in 2025 (03:32). Matt finishes the show with an opening weekend box office prediction for ‘Tron: Ares’ (25:54).

For a 20 percent discount on Matt’s Hollywood insider newsletter, ‘What I’m Hearing ...,’ ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠click here⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠.
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Host: Matt Belloni
Guest: Ben Smith

Producers: Craig Horlbeck and Jessie Lopez
Theme Song: Devon Renaldo

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The 'Smashing Machine’ Bomb and A24’s Big-Budget Burden

Mon, 06 Oct 2025 22:37:00 -0000

Matt and Bloomberg’s Lucas Shaw use the disappointing box office performance for A24’s sports drama ‘The Smashing Machine’ with Dwayne "The Rock" Johnson to examine the current state of A24, the difficulty of living up to its sky-high valuation, and the natural life cycle of a growing indie movie studio (03:04). Matt finishes the show with a prediction about the new cast of 'SNL' (25:20).

For a 20 percent discount on Matt’s Hollywood insider newsletter, ‘What I’m Hearing ...,’ ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠click here⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠.
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Host: Matt Belloni
Guest: Lucas Shaw

Producers: Craig Horlbeck and Jessie Lopez
Theme Song: Devon Renaldo

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Sora 2, AI Actors, and How Hollywood Can Fight Back

Thu, 02 Oct 2025 21:08:00 -0000

Matt is joined by SAG-AFTRA national executive director Duncan Crabtree-Ireland to discuss OpenAI’s new app, Sora 2, an AI video tool and video-sharing app, and the problems it presents for Hollywood. They discuss how this product can threaten the legitimacy of image and likeness rights and infringe on intellectual property and why Hollywood isn't suing OpenAI immediately. They dive into what is allowed to be used to train AI models vs. what is allowed to be posted on apps like Sora, the opt-in vs. opt-out system, how actors can protect themselves, and what's really at stake here (03:15). They also discuss Tilly Norwood, the so-called “AI actress” that sparked outrage over the last week (28:23).

For a 20 percent discount on Matt’s Hollywood insider newsletter, ‘What I’m Hearing ...,’ ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠click here⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠.
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Host: Matt Belloni
Guest: Duncan Crabtree-Ireland

Producers: Craig Horlbeck and Jessie Lopez
Theme Song: Devon Renaldo

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The Return of the Spec Script—Is There Hope for Original Screenplays in Hollywood?

Wed, 01 Oct 2025 22:51:00 -0000

Matt is joined by Entertainment 360 literary manager/producer Geoff Shaevitz to discuss why spec-script sales have taken off in Hollywood over the past year. Geoff speculates on what kick-started this trend, why buyers are moving away from fully packaged deals, which genres are selling, which studios are buying, and whether the original-script boom is here to stay (02:50). Matt finishes the show with a prediction about the opening weekend box offices for ‘Taylor Swift: The Official Release Party of a Showgirl’ and ‘The Smashing Machine’ (25:15).

For a 20 percent discount on Matt’s Hollywood insider newsletter, ‘What I’m Hearing ...,’ ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠click here⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠.
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Host: Matt Belloni
Guest: Geoff Shaevitz

Producers: Craig Horlbeck and Jessie Lopez
Theme Song: Devon Renaldo

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One Box Office Battle After Another for PTA

Mon, 29 Sep 2025 23:07:00 -0000

Matt is joined by Bloomberg’s Lucas Shaw to discuss the weekend box office performance of ‘One Battle After Another’: Was the film a flop or a hit? With Warner Bros.' film slate done for the year, Matt and Lucas discuss the studio's performance this year and how it could affect chiefs Michael De Luca and Pam Abdy, as well as the studio as a whole, amid a potential sale to David Ellison (02:58). They also discuss President Trump’s renewed threats of imposing tariffs on films made outside the United States (22:59). Matt finishes the show with a prediction on what will happen with AI actress Tilly Norwood (25:26).

For a 20 percent discount on Matt’s Hollywood insider newsletter, ‘What I’m Hearing ...,’ ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠click here⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠.

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Host: Matt Belloni

Guest: Lucas Shaw

Producers: Craig Horlbeck and Jessie Lopez

Theme Song: Devon Renaldo

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Where the Money Is Spent in Hollywood and How It's Changing

Fri, 26 Sep 2025 08:00:00 -0000

Matt is joined by Scott Purdy, a media strategy leader at KPMG, to discuss their illuminating new study outlining how much the major networks are spending on content and, more importantly, where. They discuss why these companies need to start spending their money differently and how user-generated content might soon become more powerful than the traditional content models (02:36). Matt finishes the show with an opening weekend box office prediction for Paul Thomas Anderson’s newest film, ‘One Battle After Another’ (25:28).

For a 20 percent discount on Matt’s Hollywood insider newsletter, ‘What I’m Hearing ...,’ ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠click here⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠.
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Host: Matt Belloni
Guest: Scott Purdy

Producers: Craig Horlbeck and Jessie Lopez
Theme Song: Devon Renaldo

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Kimmel Is Back, But Disney vs. Trump Is Just Beginning

Thu, 25 Sep 2025 00:34:00 -0000

Matt is joined by Puck’s Eriq Gardner to discuss the return of ‘Jimmy Kimmel Live!’ and unpack what could happen next. They talk about why Brendan Carr and the FCC may not be as powerful as they might seem, whether affiliate stations can preempt ‘Jimmy Kimmel Live!’ indefinitely, and whether Disney could leverage its power by withholding its most valuable content—like the NFL and college football—from these affiliate networks (02:47). Matt finishes the show with a prediction about the postponement of the Apple TV+ show ‘The Savant’ (25:43).
For a 20 percent discount on Matt’s Hollywood insider newsletter, ‘What I’m Hearing ...,’ ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠click here⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠.
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Host: Matt Belloni
Guest: Eriq Gardner
Producers: Craig Horlbeck and Jessie Lopez
Theme Song: Devon Renaldo

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Kimmel’s Return, Disney’s Decision, and Iger’s Legacy

Tue, 23 Sep 2025 00:34:00 -0000

Matt is joined by Bloomberg’s Lucas Shaw to discuss the announcement that Jimmy Kimmel will be returning to ‘Jimmy Kimmel Live!’ this Tuesday night, and the various ramifications that could follow. They talk about how Disney has handled this situation, the possibility of ABC affiliates refusing to air the show, former Disney CEO Michael Eisner's criticism of current CEO Bob Iger, and how this affects Iger’s legacy (02:47). Matt finishes the show with a prediction about the season-long ratings for the 2025 NFL season (27:22).

For a 20 percent discount on Matt’s Hollywood insider newsletter, ‘What I’m Hearing ...,’ ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠click here⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠.
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Host: Matt Belloni
Guest: Lucas Shaw
Producers: Craig Horlbeck and Jessie Lopez
Theme Song: Devon Renaldo

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Jimmy Kimmel vs. the FCC: Can Disney Escape This Mess?

Thu, 18 Sep 2025 18:15:00 -0000

Matt is joined by journalist Bill Carter to discuss the suspension of ‘Jimmy Kimmel Live!’ after portions of Kimmel’s monologue on Monday night sparked outrage among several ABC affiliate groups as well as FCC chairman Brendan Carr. They discuss Disney’s decision to pull Kimmel off the air, why certain affiliate groups might be motivated to side with Carr, what leverage the FCC has in this situation, Trump's online celebration and call-outs for other late-night hosts to be canceled, and where this all goes from here (03:49).
For a 20 percent discount on Matt’s Hollywood insider newsletter, ‘What I’m Hearing ...,’ ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠click here⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠.
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Host: Matt Belloni
Guest: Bill Carter
Producers: Craig Horlbeck and Jessie Lopez
Theme Song: Devon Renaldo

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Is the Rotten Tomatoes Formula Fresh or Rotten?

Wed, 17 Sep 2025 19:00:00 -0000

Matt is joined by Rotten Tomatoes awards editor Jacqueline Coley to reveal how the Rotten Tomatoes rating system works, the reasoning behind its binary grading system, whether the system favors certain movies, why the Tomatometer scores have increased over the past 10 years, and why Rotten Tomatoes is so popular in the current online movie criticism landscape (02:39). Matt finishes the show with an opening weekend box office prediction for ‘Him’ and ‘A Big Bold Beautiful Journey’ (31:38).

For a 20 percent discount on Matt’s Hollywood insider newsletter, ‘What I’m Hearing ...,’ ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠click here⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠.
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Host: Matt Belloni
Guest: Jacqueline Coley
Producers: Craig Horlbeck and Jessie Lopez
Theme Song: Devon Renaldo

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David Ellison Bought Paramount. Now He Wants Warner Bros. Plus, the 2025 Emmys Recap.

Tue, 16 Sep 2025 01:32:00 -0000

Matt is joined by Bloomberg’s Lucas Shaw and LightShed’s Rich Greenfield to discuss the report that David Ellison is interested in making a majority-cash bid to acquire Warner Bros. Discovery. Matt, Lucas, and Rich discuss why Ellison is doing this now after just acquiring Paramount, whether a merger like this is even possible, the ramifications of the continued consolidation in Hollywood, how valuable Warner Bros. is to Ellison, and what else Ellison could buy (02:50). Later, Lucas and Matt recap the 2025 Emmy Awards, highlighting their winners and losers and, most importantly, which after-party had the best food (25:43).
For a 20 percent discount on Matt’s Hollywood insider newsletter, ‘What I’m Hearing ...,’ ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠click here⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠.
Email us your thoughts! ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠thetown@spotify.com⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠
Host: Matt Belloni
Guests: Lucas Shaw and Rich Greenfield
Producers: Craig Horlbeck and Jessie Lopez
Theme Song: Devon Renaldo

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The Emmys vs. the Audience: Which Shows People Actually Watch

Fri, 12 Sep 2025 19:52:00 -0000

Matt is joined by Puck’s Julia Alexander to preview the 2025 Emmy Awards and look at which shows should already be considered winners from a business perspective. They discuss how many people are actually watching the nominated shows, whether they justify their budget, and which show got the biggest boost from their nomination (02:01) Matt finishes the show with an opening weekend box office prediction for ‘Demon Slayer: Kimetsu no Yaiba—The Movie: Infinity Castle’ (29:27).

For a 20 percent discount on Matt’s Hollywood insider newsletter, ‘What I’m Hearing ...,’ ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠click here⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠.
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Host: Matt Belloni
Guest: Julia Alexander
Producers: Craig Horlbeck and Jessie Lopez
Theme Song: Devon Renaldo

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The Murdoch Succession War is Over, and Fox Crowns its Next Leader

Tue, 09 Sep 2025 23:06:00 -0000

Matt is joined by the New York Times’ Jim Rutenberg to discuss the bombshell news that the Murdochs have settled their ongoing family trust succession dispute, which will now keep Lachlan Murdoch on top, with the other siblings taking buyouts for over $1 billion each. Matt and Jim discuss why the siblings finally settled, if this was a good deal for them or a disappointing capitulation, and what's next for the Fox empire under Lachlan (02:52). Matt finishes the show with an Oscar prediction after attending the Toronto Film Festival (27:25).

For a 20 percent discount on Matt’s Hollywood insider newsletter, ‘What I’m Hearing ...,’ ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠click here⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠.
Email us your thoughts! ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠thetown@spotify.com⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠
Host: Matt Belloni
Guest: Jim Rutenberg
Producers: Craig Horlbeck and Jessie Lopez
Theme Song: Devon Renaldo

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YouTube’s NFL Debut, A Surprise Box-Office Hit at the Sphere, and Warner Bros. Merger Candidates

Mon, 08 Sep 2025 22:34:00 -0000

Matt is joined by Bloomberg’s Lucas Shaw to discuss YouTube’s exclusive NFL debut on Friday night, which brought in 17 million viewers; the surprising box-office success of ‘The Wizard of Oz’ at the Sphere in Las Vegas; and if there is a path to sustained success for The Sphere as a movie venue. They also discuss longtime billionaire investor John Malone’s attempt to find a new home for Warner Bros. Discovery, and if David Ellison is the most likely suitor (02:17). Matt finishes the show with a prediction about Bari Weiss’s future at CBS (26:16).

For a 20 percent discount on Matt’s Hollywood insider newsletter, ‘What I’m Hearing ...,’ ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠click here⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠.
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Host: Matt Belloni
Guest: Lucas Shaw

Producers: Craig Horlbeck and Jessie Lopez
Theme Song: Devon Renaldo

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Why Gen Alpha Prefers the Big Screen Over Their Phones

Fri, 05 Sep 2025 19:48:00 -0000

Matt is joined by Fergus Navaratnam-Blair of National Research Group to discuss his surprising study revealing Generation Alpha’s love for and interest in the theatrical movie experience. They look at the most interesting data from the study, including Gen A’s interest in seeing movies with friends, their strong attention span, and their ability to put down their phones during a movie. They also dig into the most important IP and actors for the younger generation of moviegoers (02:06). Matt finishes the show with an opening weekend box office prediction for ‘The Conjuring: Last Rites’ and ‘Hamilton’ in theaters (25:13).

For a 20 percent discount on Matt’s Hollywood insider newsletter, ‘What I’m Hearing ...,’ ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠click here⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠.
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Host: Matt Belloni
Guest: Fergus Navaratnam-Blair

Producers: Craig Horlbeck and Jessie Lopez
Theme Song: Devon Renaldo

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How To Save Movies With the CEO of AMC Theatres

Mon, 01 Sep 2025 08:00:00 -0000

Live from the El Rey theater in Los Angeles, Matt is joined by Bloomberg’s Lucas Shaw and Adam Aron, the CEO and chairman of AMC Theatres, to discuss the state of the moviegoing business, why there are so many trailers and ads before the movie starts, Adam's relationship with Netflix, and how the theatrical business can evolve (02:22).

For a 20 percent discount on Matt’s Hollywood insider newsletter, ‘What I’m Hearing ...,’ ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠click here⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠.

Email us your thoughts! ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠thetown@spotify.com⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠

Host: Matt Belloni

Guests: Adam Aron and Lucas Shaw

Producers: Craig Horlbeck, Jessie Lopez, Helen Eichner, John Richter, Victoria Valencia, and Donald LoBianco

Theme Song: Devon Renaldo

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The Summer Box Office Report Card: Surprise Hits, Big Flops, and Key Takeaways

Fri, 29 Aug 2025 00:26:00 -0000

Matt is joined by Puck’s box office expert, Scott Mendelson, to judge their early summer box office predictions by looking at the biggest hits, misses, and questions from the 2025 summer slate (02:09).

Host: Matt Belloni
Guest: Scott Mendelson

Producers: Craig Horlbeck and Jessie Lopez
Theme Song: Devon Renaldo

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Venice, Sundance, and the New Film Festival Hierarchy

Wed, 27 Aug 2025 08:00:00 -0000

Matt is joined by prominent independent film producer Christine Vachon to discuss the general state and health of the independent film market. She discusses her newest film, ‘Materialists,’ how her company, Killer Films, has lasted 30 years, the challenge of getting challenging films made, where money is coming from in the indie space, and the current film festival hierarchy (02:15). Matt finishes the show with a prediction about the upcoming Darren Aronofsky film ‘Caught Stealing’ (25:58).
For a 20 percent discount on Matt’s Hollywood insider newsletter, ‘What I’m Hearing ...,’ ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠click here⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠.
Email us your thoughts! ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠thetown@spotify.com⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠
Host: Matt Belloni
Guest: Christine Vachon
Producers: Craig Horlbeck and Jessie Lopez
Theme Song: Devon Renaldo

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Why ‘KPop Demon Hunters’ Is a Fascinating Hollywood Experiment

Mon, 25 Aug 2025 21:28:00 -0000

Matt is joined by Bloomberg’s Lucas Shaw to discuss Netflix’s surprise hit ‘KPop Demon Hunters,’ which has become their second-most popular English-language film. Unexpectedly, Netflix decided to release ‘KPop Demon Hunters’ in theaters, where it brought in nearly $20 million in ticket sales despite releasing on streaming in June. Matt and Lucas discuss why Netflix did this despite its very clear view on movie theaters, whether the movie could have been a massive hit had it gone straight to theaters, and why AMC refused to show this movie (02:49). Matt finishes the show with a prediction about the upcoming season of ‘Saturday Night Live’ (24:45).

For a 20 percent discount on Matt’s Hollywood insider newsletter, ‘What I’m Hearing ...,’ ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠click here⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠.
Email us your thoughts! ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠thetown@spotify.com⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠

Host: Matt Belloni
Guest: Lucas Shaw

Producers: Craig Horlbeck and Jessie Lopez
Theme Song: Devon Renaldo

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‘The Traitors’ and How to Craft Hit Reality TV in 2025

Fri, 22 Aug 2025 22:28:00 -0000

Live from the Edinburgh TV Festival in Scotland, Matt is joined by television producer and executive Stephen Lambert to discuss the current state of reality TV, his newest hit, ‘The Traitors,' how to cast reality competition, what streamers are looking for in 2025, how that's changed, and whether America is falling behind in creating fresh reality formats (02:11).

Host: Matt Belloni
Guest: Stephen Lambert

Producers: Craig Horlbeck and Jessie Lopez
Theme Song: Devon Renaldo

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Why Fox Is Finally Entering the Streaming Wars

Wed, 20 Aug 2025 08:00:00 -0000

Matt is joined by Pete Distad, CEO of Fox's direct-to-consumer streaming platform, to discuss Fox One, the company's first significant foray into streaming, which will offer all of Fox’s news, sports, and entertainment branded content together in one platform. They talk about the juggernaut of news and sports, the end of NFL exclusively on broadcast, why the price is so high ($20 per month), the potential that it will cannibalize Fox's successful existing cable business, the option to bundle with ESPN for $40, and more (02:40). Matt finishes the show with a prediction about the Duffer brothers, who are leaving Netflix for Paramount (24:56).

Host: Matt Belloni
Guest: Pete Distad

Producers: Craig Horlbeck and Jessie Lopez
Theme Song: Devon Renaldo

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The 10 Worst Things to Happen to Hollywood Since 2010

Mon, 18 Aug 2025 22:09:00 -0000

Matt is joined by Bloomberg’s Lucas Shaw to look back on the past 15 years in Hollywood and determine which moments were the most detrimental to the industry. In descending order, they each rank and explain their top five moments that had the most meaningful and negative effect on the greater Hollywood ecosystem (01:53). Matt finishes the show with a prediction about Taylor Swift’s next act (29:57).
For a 20 percent discount on Matt’s Hollywood insider newsletter, ‘What I’m Hearing ...,’ ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠click here⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠.
Email us your thoughts! ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠thetown@spotify.com⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠
Host: Matt Belloni
Guest: Lucas Shaw
Producers: Craig Horlbeck and Jessie Lopez
Theme Song: Devon Renaldo

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Paramount’s New Playbook Unveiled and the Taylor Swift Podcast Bounce

Fri, 15 Aug 2025 02:15:00 -0000

Matt is joined by NYT staff reporter Brooks Barnes to discuss Paramount’s new strategy under David Ellison. They were both at Paramount’s press event earlier this week, so they dissect what Ellison told the press about the company’s new direction and discuss their views on theater windows, Paramount’s content spend, its streaming strategy, and whether it will sell off its cable assets (02:43). Matt finishes the show with a prediction on where the New Heights episode with Taylor Swift will rank among the top-viewed podcasts of all time on YouTube (27:06).
For a 20 percent discount on Matt’s Hollywood insider newsletter, ‘What I’m Hearing ...,’ ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠click here⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠.
Email us your thoughts! ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠thetown@spotify.com⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠
Host: Matt Belloni
Guest: Brooks Barnes
Producers: Craig Horlbeck and Jessie Lopez
Theme Song: Devon Renaldo

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The Power and Peculiar Psychology of ‘Disney Adults’

Thu, 14 Aug 2025 01:31:00 -0000

Matt is joined by A.J. Wolfe, creator of the website Disney Food Blog and author of a new book, ‘Disney Adults: Exploring (And Falling In Love With) A Magical Subculture’. They dive into the "Disney adult" culture and its growing community, how Disney caters to this specific demo, the millennial connection, and thoughts on Josh D'Amaro, as well as the power this community has over Disney (02:28). Matt finishes the show with a prediction on the ratings for the 'Kennedy Center Honors’ broadcast on CBS later this year (26:51).

For a 20 percent discount on Matt’s Hollywood insider newsletter, ‘What I’m Hearing ...,’ ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠click here⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠.
Email us your thoughts! ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠thetown@spotify.com⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠

Host: Matt Belloni
Guest: A.J. Wolfe

Producers: Craig Horlbeck and Jessie Lopez
Theme Song: Devon Renaldo

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Paramount’s UFC Knockout and Amazon’s Podcast Flameout

Mon, 11 Aug 2025 22:59:00 -0000

Matt is joined by Bloomberg’s Lucas Shaw and Ashley Carman to discuss UFC’s $7.7 billion rights deal with Paramount, as well as the changing landscape in the podcast business. They begin by discussing the huge swing David Ellison took to secure the entire slate of UFC’s streaming and broadcast rights for Paramount+, eliminating the pay-per-view model. They debate where the money comes from and why UFC ultimately chose Paramount over others (02:47). Next, they discuss Amazon’s decision to fold its podcast unit, Wondery, into its Audible banner; talk about the industry’s shift into the video format; and predict which podcast has the best chance to dethrone Joe Rogan (12:19).

For a 20 percent discount on Matt’s Hollywood insider newsletter, ‘What I’m Hearing ...,’ ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠click here⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠.
Email us your thoughts! ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠thetown@spotify.com⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠

Host: Matt Belloni
Guest: Lucas Shaw and Ashley Carman

Producers: Craig Horlbeck and Jessie Lopez
Theme Song: Devon Renaldo

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Could Movies Start Skipping Netflix to Go Straight to YouTube?

Fri, 08 Aug 2025 21:14:00 -0000

Matt is joined by Indian superstar actor and producer Aamir Khan to discuss his bold strategy to release his newest film exclusively on YouTube despite an eight-figure offer from a traditional streamer. He explains how this decision fuels his own creative responsibility for the film, the rationale of sacrificing money for reach, the drawbacks of the presale model, and why there needs to be a stop between theatrical and streaming video on demand (03:23). Matt finishes the show with a prediction about the theatrical release of ‘Hamilton’ (25:42).

Host: Matt Belloni
Guest: Aamir Khan

Producers: Craig Horlbeck and Jessie Lopez
Theme Song: Devon Renaldo

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ESPN Jumps Into Bed With the NFL. What About Everyone Else?

Thu, 07 Aug 2025 02:34:00 -0000

LIVE SHOW in Los Angeles on August 27. ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠Click here for tickets!⁠

Matt is joined by Huddle Up’s Joe Pompliano to break down why the NFL is acquiring a 10 percent stake in ESPN in exchange for NFL Network and other media assets. They discuss the complicated details of this deal and what's in it for both sides, including how this will affect ESPN's NFL offerings and its upcoming stand-alone streaming service (02:42). Matt finishes the show with an opening weekend box office prediction for ‘Freakier Friday’ and ‘Weapons’ (27:06).

Host: Matt Belloni
Guest: Joe Pompliano

Producers: Craig Horlbeck and Jessie Lopez
Theme Song: Devon Renaldo

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Paramount’s New Team, Fantastic Four’s Nosedive, YouTubers in Theaters, and Peacock’s Future

Tue, 05 Aug 2025 00:11:00 -0000

LIVE SHOW in Los Angeles on August 27. ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠Click here for tickets! ⁠

Matt is joined by Bloomberg’s Lucas Shaw to discuss a wide range of topics from around town this week, including David Ellison’s new Paramount executive hierarchy, the Week 2 nosedive taken by 'The Fantastic Four' despite its good reviews, Peacock's stagnation and reliance on sports, YouTube stars Dude Perfect releasing their own documentary in movie theaters, and more (01:51). Matt finishes the show with a prediction about the Netflix viewership numbers for 'Happy Gilmore 2’ and the future of the IP (26:33).

For a 20 percent discount on Matt’s Hollywood insider newsletter, ‘What I’m Hearing ...,’ ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠click here⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠.
Email us your thoughts! ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠thetown@spotify.com⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠

Host: Matt Belloni
Guest: Lucas Shaw

Producers: Craig Horlbeck and Jessie Lopez
Theme Song: Devon Renaldo

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Why It’s Harder Than Ever to Make a Studio Comedy, With Seth MacFarlane

Thu, 31 Jul 2025 08:00:00 -0000

LIVE SHOW in Los Angeles on August 27. ⁠⁠⁠⁠Click here for tickets!

Matt is joined by Seth MacFarlane to discuss how the new ‘The Naked Gun’ got green-lit, the lost art of joke-driven comedy, how to push the envelope in 2025, and why it's harder than ever for even someone like him to get a studio comedy made (01:49).

For a 20 percent discount on Matt’s Hollywood insider newsletter, ‘What I’m Hearing ...,’ ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠click here⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠.

Email us your thoughts! ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠thetown@spotify.com⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠

Host: Matt Belloni
Guest: Seth MacFarlane

Producers: Craig Horlbeck and Jessie Lopez
Theme Song: Devon Renaldo

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Why IMAX Is Becoming Bigger Than the Movie

Wed, 30 Jul 2025 08:00:00 -0000

LIVE SHOW in Los Angeles on August 27. ⁠⁠⁠Click here for tickets!

Matt is joined by Richard Gelfond, the CEO of IMAX, to discuss the influence of the IMAX brand and its growing popularity among moviegoers. They talk about how the marketing has changed for IMAX movies, selling tickets to Christopher Nolan’s ‘The Odyssey’ on IMAX a year in advance, and whether other theater chains could create their own premium large-format competitor (02:38). Matt finishes the show with an opening weekend box office prediction for ‘The Naked Gun’ (26:49).

Host: Matt Belloni
Guest: Richard Gelfond

Producers: Craig Horlbeck and Jessie Lopez
Theme Song: Devon Renaldo

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Paramount Now Belongs to David Ellison. What Will He Do With It?

Mon, 28 Jul 2025 08:00:00 -0000

Matt is joined by Bloomberg's Lucas Shaw to discuss the possible changes coming to Paramount now that Skydance and its CEO, David Ellison, are officially taking over. Just how much will the new media mogul influence the movies, shows, and news under the Paramount umbrella (02:17)? Matt, Lucas, and Craig finish the show with a prediction about ‘Happy Gilmore 2’ (26:59).

For a 20 percent discount on Matt’s Hollywood insider newsletter, ‘What I’m Hearing ...,’ ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠click here⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠.
Email us your thoughts! ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠thetown@spotify.com⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠
Host: Matt Belloni
Guest: Lucas Shaw

Producers: Craig Horlbeck and Jessie Lopez
Theme Song: Devon Renaldo

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The F-You ‘South Park’ Episode and the Precarious State of Comedy in 2025

Thu, 24 Jul 2025 23:44:00 -0000

LIVE SHOW in Los Angeles on August 27. ⁠⁠Click here for tickets!

Matt is joined by Mosaic’s Michael Lasker to talk about the explosive new 'South Park' episode, the buzz around town, and how Matt Stone and Trey Parker continue to push the envelope and get away with it (02:38). Later, Michael explains what the market is like for comedy right now, what is being sold, what studios are looking for, why theatrical comedies are struggling, the pullback on sitcoms, and whether there is reason for optimism (07:29).

Host: Matt Belloni
Guest: Michael Lasker

Producers: Craig Horlbeck and Jessie Lopez
Theme Song: Devon Renaldo

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‘Fantastic Four’ Pressure, Marvel’s Next Steps, and Kevin Feige’s Future

Wed, 23 Jul 2025 08:00:00 -0000

LIVE SHOW in Los Angeles on August 27. Tickets go live today at 10 a.m. PT. ⁠Click here for tickets!
Matt is joined by Wall Street Journal entertainment reporter Ben Fritz to discuss how much pressure is on ‘The Fantastic Four: First Steps’ for the next era of the MCU to succeed. They discuss some of the changes Marvel has made to combat superhero fatigue, Kevin Feige’s future, and whether Marvel or DC is better positioned to win the rest of the decade (02:50). Matt finishes the show with an opening weekend box office prediction for ‘The Fantastic Four: First Steps’ (28:52).
For a 20 percent discount on Matt’s Hollywood insider newsletter, ‘What I’m Hearing ...,’ ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠click here⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠.
Email us your thoughts! ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠thetown@spotify.com⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠
Host: Matt Belloni
Guest: Ben Fritz
Producers: Craig Horlbeck and Jessie Lopez
Theme Song: Devon Renaldo

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Colbert’s Next Home, and Netflix Earnings Flexes and Anxieties

Mon, 21 Jul 2025 22:09:00 -0000

Matt is joined by Bloomberg’s Lucas Shaw to discuss what's next for Stephen Colbert, and whether Netflix could ever produce a successful late-night show. Then, they dissect Netflix's latest earnings report and highlight its strengths and weaknesses, including why the stock fell despite strong financial earnings, how concerning is its stagnation in the share of viewing metric, its use of AI in ‘The Eternaut’, and more (02:42). Matt finishes the show with a prediction about the future of Fox amid Donald Trump’s latest lawsuit against The Wall Street Journal (25:12).

For a 20 percent discount on Matt’s Hollywood insider newsletter, ‘What I’m Hearing ...,’ ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠click here⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠.
Email us your thoughts! ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠thetown@spotify.com⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠

Host: Matt Belloni
Guest: Lucas Shaw

Producers: Craig Horlbeck and Jessie Lopez
Theme Song: Devon Renaldo

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Colbert Is Cancelled. Is the Late-Night Dam Bursting?

Sat, 19 Jul 2025 01:26:00 -0000

Matt is joined by veteran late-night executive and producer Nick Bernstein to discuss CBS’s decision to cancel ‘The Late Show With Stephen Colbert’—despite being the number one late night show on TV—and debate whether or not there was any political involvement, as Skydance is still looking for the FCC’s approval in a merger with CBS's parent company, Paramount Global. They also dive into the declining economics in all of late night, the CBS head George Cheeks’s other possible motives for firing Colbert at this moment, the future of late night, and more (03:07). Matt finishes the show with an opening-weekend box office prediction for ‘Smurfs’ and ‘I Know What You Did Last Summer’ (29:44).

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The 2025 Emmy Nomination Awards: Winners, Snubs, and Thirstiest Campaigns

Wed, 16 Jul 2025 08:00:00 -0000

Matt is joined by Rebecca Ford, senior correspondent at Vanity Fair, to cohost The Town’s first Emmy Nomination Awards, the first awards show dedicated to nominations for an awards show. Matt and Rebecca give out awards like Biggest Winner, Sneaky Loser, Most Embarrassing Nomination for the Academy, Thirstiest Campaign, the “Enough Already” Award, Best Breakout Nomination, and more (01:45). Matt and Rebecca finish the show with predictions for Best Comedy Series, Best Drama Series, and Best Limited Series (23:37).

Host: Matt Belloni
Guest: Rebecca Ford

Producers: Craig Horlbeck and Jessie Lopez
Theme Song: Devon Renaldo

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'Superman,' Marvel vs. DC, and the Studio Head Hot Seat

Mon, 14 Jul 2025 22:06:00 -0000

Matt is joined by Bloomberg’s Lucas Shaw to discuss the strong opening weekend for 'Superman,' talk about whether this movie is enough to kick-start a DC reboot, and revisit Marvel’s post-'Avengers' strategy as they look ahead to ‘The Fantastic Four: First Steps’ and beyond. Later, they discuss the impressive and timely run of box office successes from the Warner Bros. movie studio and take a look at which studio heads are on the hot seat as we near the end of summer (02:15). Matt finishes the show with a prediction about AMC Theatres (23:10).

For a 20 percent discount on Matt’s Hollywood insider newsletter, ‘What I’m Hearing ...,’ ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠click here⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠.
Email us your thoughts! ⁠⁠⁠⁠thetown@spotify.com⁠⁠⁠⁠

Host: Matt Belloni
Guest: Lucas Shaw

Producers: Craig Horlbeck and Jessie Lopez
Theme Song: Devon Renaldo

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News and Deal Buzz From Inside Sun Valley’s Billionaire Summer Camp

Fri, 11 Jul 2025 19:15:00 -0000

Matt is joined by CNBC senior media and tech correspondent Julia Boorstin live from Sun Valley 2025 to discuss what we can expect from this year's summer camp for billionaires. Julia gives us the latest buzz on potential mergers, behind-the-scenes conversations about AI, the NFL's global plans, Linda Yaccarino leaving Twitter, and more (02:19). Matt finishes the show with a prediction about the newly announced HBO sketch comedy show from Larry David and Barack Obama’s Higher Ground (26:17).

Host: Matt Belloni
Guest: Julia Boorstin

Producers: Craig Horlbeck and Jessie Lopez
Theme Song: Devon Renaldo

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After a Historic Hollywood Tax Break, Is Moviemaking Coming Back to California?

Wed, 09 Jul 2025 07:58:00 -0000

Matt is joined by Joe Chianese of Entertainment Partners to unpack the new California tax bill, which will significantly expand the state's film and TV tax incentive, making California one of the most competitive states in the country for film and TV production. Joe helps us dig into the bill, what it actually means for film and TV productions, who benefits the most, who doesn’t, why this bill finally passed now, and whether this will spark a return to power for California in the film and TV production space (02:51). Matt finishes the show with an opening weekend box office prediction for ‘Superman’ (25:27).

Host: Matt Belloni
Guest: Joe Chianese

Producers: Craig Horlbeck and Jessie Lopez
Theme Song: Devon Renaldo

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Why the Paramount-Skydance Merger is "F*cking Up ‘South Park’"

Mon, 07 Jul 2025 20:48:00 -0000

Matt is joined by Bloomberg’s Lucas Shaw to discuss the standoff between ‘South Park’ creators Matt Stone and Trey Parker and Paramount amid the looming merger between Paramount Global and Skydance Media. They break down the details of this public fight, why the new season of ‘South Park’ is delayed, and how the Trump-Paramount settlement could affect this situation (03:23). Matt finishes the show with a prediction about Jesse Eisenberg potentially returning for the sequel of ‘The Social Network’ (26:23).

For a 20 percent discount on Matt’s Hollywood insider newsletter, ‘What I’m Hearing ...,’ ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠click here⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠.
Email us your thoughts! ⁠⁠⁠thetown@spotify.com⁠⁠⁠

Host: Matt Belloni
Guest: Lucas Shaw

Producers: Craig Horlbeck and Jessie Lopez
Theme Song: Devon Renaldo

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Bribe? Surrender? Both? Unpacking the Trump-Paramount Settlement.

Wed, 02 Jul 2025 22:52:00 -0000

Matt is joined by CNN chief media analyst Brian Stelter to discuss Paramount reaching an agreement with President Donald Trump to settle his lawsuit with ‘60 Minutes’ for $16 million. They discuss the curious timing of the settlement amid the looming Paramount-Skydance merger, whether the FCC will approve this merger, the potential of a follow-up bribery investigation, how this will affect the Paramount and CBS brand, and the long-term political and journalistic implications of this agreement.

Host: Matt Belloni
Guest: Brian Stelter

Producers: Craig Horlbeck and Jessie Lopez
Theme Song: Devon Renaldo

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Jason Blum Opens Up About the 'M3GAN 2.0' Flop, the Blumhouse Slump, and Bouncing Back

Tue, 01 Jul 2025 13:00:00 -0000

Matt is joined by Blumhouse CEO Jason Blum to discuss why his new film, ‘M3GAN 2.0’, significantly underperformed in its opening weekend, making only $10M domestically, Blumhouse’s recent slump, what he has learned from this year, the state of the horror genre, and the highs and lows of moviemaking (02:20). Matt finishes the show with an opening-weekend box office prediction for ‘Jurassic World: Rebirth’ (28:03).

Host: Matt Belloni
Guest: Jason Blum

Producers: Craig Horlbeck and Jessie Lopez
Theme Song: Devon Renaldo

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Apple’s ‘F1’ Win and Big Tech’s Streaming vs. Theaters Debate

Mon, 30 Jun 2025 21:19:00 -0000

Matt is joined by Bloomberg’s Lucas Shaw to discuss the opening weekend box office performance of ‘F1,’ whether it should be considered a hit, and what this means for Apple’s interest in releasing movies in theaters. They also look at the rest of the tech streamers and discuss who is best positioned to release movies theatrically and, more importantly, who is most interested in doing so. Later, they discuss the disappointing opening weekend of 'Megan 2.0' and what this means for Blumhouse (02:20). Matt finishes the show with a prediction about what the most viewed show will be on Netflix this week (23:42).

For a 20 percent discount on Matt’s Hollywood insider newsletter, ‘What I’m Hearing ...,’ ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠click here⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠.
Email us your thoughts! ⁠⁠thetown@spotify.com⁠⁠

Host: Matt Belloni
Guest: Lucas Shaw

Producers: Craig Horlbeck and Jessie Lopez
Theme Song: Devon Renaldo

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The Case for Netflix Pillaging YouTube Creators

Wed, 25 Jun 2025 21:10:00 -0000

Matt is joined by Wells Fargo media analyst Steven Cahall to talk about the possibility of Netflix going after YouTube content creators, its possible venture into short-form content, and the effects on Hollywood if this were to happen. They discuss how much (if at all) YouTube would hurt if Netflix took its top creators, the appeal for creators to make that jump, the different type of content that would be produced, and reasons why Netflix hasn't already done this (02:47). Matt finishes off the show with a weekend box office prediction for ‘F1’ and ‘M3GAN 2.0’ (26:16).

Host: Matt Belloni
Guest: Steven Cahall

Producers: Craig Horlbeck and Jessie Lopez
Theme Song: Devon Renaldo

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Marvel’s Decline, Hollywood Vs. AI, and the Most Under-Covered Stories of 2025 So Far

Mon, 23 Jun 2025 08:00:00 -0000

Matt is joined by Bloomberg’s Lucas Shaw to look back at the first half of 2025 and highlight the stories they believe were most under-covered (01:22).

For a 20 percent discount on Matt’s Hollywood insider newsletter, ‘What I’m Hearing ...,’ ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠click here⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠.
Email us your thoughts! ⁠thetown@spotify.com⁠

Host: Matt Belloni
Guest: Lucas Shaw
Producers: Craig Horlbeck and Jessie Lopez
Theme Song: Devon Renaldo

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Tales From the Test-Screening Trenches

Wed, 18 Jun 2025 08:00:00 -0000

Matt is joined by Kevin Goetz, the CEO of Screen Engine/ASI, to discuss the world of test screenings. They dive into the importance of these test screenings, which filmmakers utilize the screenings (and which refuse), lessons learned while testing ‘Sinners,’ how Kevin interprets the audience data, and the responsibility of communicating that data to the filmmakers (02:35). Matt finishes the show with opening weekend box office predictions for ‘28 Years Later’ and Pixar’s ‘Elio’ (27:15).

Host: Matt Belloni
Guest: Kevin Goetz

Producers: Craig Horlbeck and Jessie Lopez
Theme Song: Devon Renaldo

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The ‘Sinners’ Deal, the Manosphere, and the Biggest Overreactions of the First Half of 2025

Mon, 16 Jun 2025 23:46:00 -0000

Matt is joined by Bloomberg’s Lucas Shaw to look back on the first half of 2025 and highlight the stories they believe were most overcovered (01:47). Matt finishes the show with a prediction about the future of the Hulu brand (26:27).

For a 20 percent discount on Matt’s Hollywood insider newsletter, ‘What I’m Hearing ...,’ ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠click here⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠.

Email us your thoughts! thetown@spotify.com

Host: Matt Belloni
Guest: Lucas Shaw

Producers: Craig Horlbeck and Jessie Lopez
Theme Song: Devon Renaldo

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How to Get an Emmy Nomination (...for Matt??)

Thu, 12 Jun 2025 16:00:00 -0000

Matt is joined by Debra Birnbaum, editor-in-chief of GoldDerby and former head of awards at Amazon Studios, to discuss the logistics of Emmy campaigning, how Emmy and Oscar campaigns differ, who actually votes, and the cost behind small and large campaigns (02:38). Debra sticks around for the Call Sheet to help Matt predict which shows will be nominated in Best Drama, Comedy, and Limited Series categories at the Emmys (24:41).

For a 20 percent discount on Matt’s Hollywood insider newsletter, ‘What I’m Hearing ...,’ ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠click here⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠.
Email us your thoughts! ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠thetown@spotify.com⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠

Host: Matt Belloni
Guest: Debra Birnbaum

Producers: Craig Horlbeck and Jessie Lopez
Theme Song: Devon Renaldo

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Running a Major Talent Agency in 2025 With the New CEO of UTA

Wed, 11 Jun 2025 08:00:00 -0000

Matt is joined by David Kramer, the new CEO of United Talent Agency, to discuss his new position, how the talent representation business has changed, industry challenges like the content slowdown, the transition from linear to streaming, labor unrest, AI, and the end of packaging. They also discuss whether private equity has been good or bad for the agency business and how the talent pay structure is changing (03:03). Matt finishes the show with an opening weekend box office prediction for ‘How to Train Your Dragon’ (26:47).

For a 20 percent discount on Matt’s Hollywood insider newsletter, ‘What I’m Hearing ...,’ ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠click here⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠.
Email us your thoughts! ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠thetown@spotify.com⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠

Host: Matt Belloni
Guest: David Kramer

Producers: Craig Horlbeck and Jessie Lopez
Theme Song: Devon Renaldo

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Warner Bros. Discovery Is Splitting Up. What's Next?

Mon, 09 Jun 2025 22:43:00 -0000

Matt is joined by Bloomberg’s Lucas Shaw to discuss the long-awaited breakup of Warner Bros. Discovery, and break down what these two new companies will consist of. They look at why this happened now, what this means for HBO Max and CNN, and who is the most likely buyer for each spun-off company (02:56). Matt finishes the show with a prediction about Blake Lively’s lawsuit against Justin Baldoni (25:10).

For a 20 percent discount on Matt’s Hollywood insider newsletter, ‘What I’m Hearing ...,’ ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠click here⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠.
Email us your thoughts! ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠thetown@spotify.com⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠

Host: Matt Belloni
Guest: Lucas Shaw

Producers: Craig Horlbeck and Jessie Lopez
Theme Song: Devon Renaldo

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Chalamet, Cruise, and the New Celebrity Press Tour Playbook

Fri, 06 Jun 2025 04:58:00 -0000

Matt is joined by veteran publicist and co-CEO of Kovert Creative, Lewis Kay, to discuss how much the game has changed in the world of celebrity PR, including how the modern media landscape has impacted the celebrity press tour, what works and what doesn’t, and why that is so hard to predict nowadays (02:50). Matt finishes the show with an opening weekend box office prediction for the movie 'Ballerina’ (29:40).

Host: Matt Belloni
Guest: Lewis Kay

Producers: Craig Horlbeck and Jessie Lopez
Theme Song: Devon Renaldo

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Clooney’s Big Broadway Bet, and How to Make Real Money in Theater

Wed, 04 Jun 2025 08:00:00 -0000

Matt is joined by nine-time Tony Award–winning producer John Johnson to talk about his latest hit, ‘Good Night and Good Luck,’ and the decision to stream the play live on CNN for the first time in Broadway history. They also take a broader look at the Broadway business, discussing how much money a play or musical costs to produce, what kind of ticket sales constitutes a hit, which individuals get paid the most, why A-list stars are flocking to the stage, and more (02:23). Matt finishes the show with a prediction about the final season of ‘Stranger Things’ (27:26).

Host: Matt Belloni
Guest: John Johnson

Producers: Craig Horlbeck and Jessie Lopez
Theme Song: Devon Renaldo

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The Real Winners of the Taylor Swift Masters Mega-Deal

Mon, 02 Jun 2025 20:30:00 -0000

Matt is joined by Bloomberg’s Lucas Shaw to discuss Taylor Swift’s purchase of the rights to the master recordings of her first six albums, which were originally sold to Scooter Braun in 2019 and later acquired by Shamrock Capital. They discuss the details of the deal, the winners and losers, and how Swift has changed the music industry by paving the way for artists to own their work (02:45). Matt closes the show with a prediction about the 2025 NBA Finals ratings (23:44).

For a 20 percent discount on Matt’s Hollywood insider newsletter, ‘What I’m Hearing ...,’ ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠click here⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠.
Email us your thoughts! ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠thetown@spotify.com⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠

Host: Matt Belloni
Guest: Lucas Shaw

Producers: Craig Horlbeck and Jessie Lopez
Theme Song: Devon Renaldo

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John Mulaney on SNL50 Hijinks and Getting Away With His Late-Night Netflix Show

Thu, 29 May 2025 17:55:00 -0000

Live from Hollywood, Matt is joined by comedian John Mulaney to talk about his experience writing for the 'SNL' 50th anniversary special and what he thinks will happen to the show moving forward. He also discusses how he managed to get away with his unique late-night show on Netflix, how he deals with executive notes, learning from his sitcom, and whether he’d ever return to scripted comedy (01:39). Matt finishes the show with an opening-weekend box office prediction for ‘Karate Kid: Legends’ (28:19).

For a 20 percent discount on Matt’s Hollywood insider newsletter, ‘What I’m Hearing ...,’ ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠click here⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠.
Email us your thoughts! ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠thetown@spotify.com⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠

Host: Matt Belloni
Guest: John Mulaney

Producers: Craig Horlbeck and Jessie Lopez
Theme Song: Devon Renaldo

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The New Path to Stand-Up Fame and Fortune With Mike Birbiglia

Tue, 27 May 2025 19:09:00 -0000

Matt is joined by comedian Mike Birbiglia to talk about how the goal of the modern stand-up comedian has changed over the past decade. They discuss whether stand-up alone is no longer enough and how necessary shoulder programming like podcasting and social media is for building a following. They also talk about Netflix's influence on stand-up and whether comedians want to make movies and TV anymore (02:30). Matt finishes the show with a prediction on which movies from the Cannes Film Festival will generate Oscar buzz (30:22).

For a 20 percent discount on Matt’s Hollywood insider newsletter, ‘What I’m Hearing ...,’ ⁠⁠⁠⁠click here⁠⁠⁠⁠.

Email us your thoughts! ⁠⁠⁠⁠thetown@spotify.com⁠⁠⁠⁠

Host: Matt Belloni
Guest: Mike Birbiglia

Producers: Craig Horlbeck and Jessie Lopez
Theme Song: Devon Renaldo

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Part 2: Seth Rogen and Evan Goldberg on Rejecting Tim Cook, Pitching Ice Cube, and Plans for More ‘The Studio’

Fri, 23 May 2025 14:00:00 -0000

Matt is joined by Seth Rogen and Evan Goldberg to discuss what they learned from industry executives before writing the show, choosing Netflix’s Ted Sarandos over Apple CEO Tim Cook for a cameo, desperately pitching Ice Cube, how they shot in a real Las Vegas casino, and which scenes were cut before they weigh in on the state of theatrical comedy in Hollywood (01:22).

Host: Matt Belloni
Guests: Seth Rogen and Evan Goldberg

Producers: Craig Horlbeck and Jessie Lopez
Theme Song: Devon Renaldo

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Part 1: Seth Rogen, Evan Goldberg, and Wild Stories From the Set of ‘The Studio’

Fri, 23 May 2025 00:24:00 -0000

Matt is joined by Seth Rogen and Evan Goldberg, the writer-director duo behind ‘The Studio,’ to discuss how the show came together, what the show gets right and wrong about Hollywood, which characters are based on real people, and why the show presented a different challenge than anything they had ever worked on before (02:44). Matt finishes the show with an opening weekend box office prediction for ‘Lilo & Stitch’ (26:20).

For a 20 percent discount on Matt’s Hollywood insider newsletter, ‘What I’m Hearing ...,’ ⁠⁠⁠⁠click here⁠⁠⁠⁠.
Email us your thoughts! ⁠⁠⁠⁠thetown@spotify.com⁠⁠⁠⁠

Host: Matt Belloni
Guests: Seth Rogen and Evan Goldberg

Producers: Craig Horlbeck and Jessie Lopez
Theme Song: Devon Renaldo

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The New Late Night with ‘Hot Ones’ Host Sean Evans

Wed, 21 May 2025 08:00:00 -0000

Matt is joined by Sean Evans, host of ‘Hot Ones,’ to discuss how he turned a niche internet interview show into one of the most popular celebrity talk shows in media. Sean discusses the business behind the show, how long it took to start making money, the art of interviewing celebrities, whether he views ‘Hot Ones’ as a competitor to late night, and what the future holds for both him and the show (02:22). Matt closes the show with an opening weekend box office prediction for ‘Mission: Impossible – The Final Reckoning’ (27:05).

For a 20 percent discount on Matt’s Hollywood insider newsletter, ‘What I’m Hearing ...,’ ⁠⁠⁠click here⁠⁠⁠.
Email us your thoughts! ⁠⁠⁠thetown@spotify.com⁠⁠⁠

Host: Matt Belloni
Guest: Sean Evans

Producers: Craig Horlbeck and Jessie Lopez
Theme Song: Devon Renaldo

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Is Streaming Killing Music—or Saving It? With a Top Spotify Exec

Mon, 19 May 2025 22:01:00 -0000

Matt is joined by Spotify’s global head of music vertical, Charlie Hellman, to talk about the current state of the music industry, how the music streaming era has impacted artists, how artists actually get paid by Spotify, competing with YouTube, the surge in AI-generated music, and artists’ biggest frustrations with Spotify (02:27). Matt finishes the show with a prediction about President Donald Trump’s $20 billion lawsuit against CBS (26:07).

Disclaimer: This podcast is produced by The Ringer, which is owned by Spotify.

For a 20 percent discount on Matt’s Hollywood insider newsletter, ‘What I’m Hearing ...,’ ⁠⁠click here⁠⁠.
Email us your thoughts! ⁠⁠thetown@spotify.com⁠⁠

Host: Matt Belloni
Guest: Lucas Shaw

Producers: Craig Horlbeck and Jessie Lopez
Theme Song: Devon Renaldo

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The Five Biggest Stories in TV: HBO Max Is Back, NFL Goes Global, and Netflix’s Franchisification

Fri, 16 May 2025 22:17:00 -0000

Matt is joined by CNBC Media and sports reporter Alex Sherman to discuss their five biggest takeaways from the TV upfronts, what the biggest platforms and streamers are prioritizing now, the rebranding of Max back to HBO Max and what it says about the new strategy for Warner Bros. Discovery, an NFL game on YouTube, how the NFL is distributing its media rights, ESPN’s new standalone streaming service costing $30/month, Netflix and Amazon’s heavy push toward franchises, and the growing dominance of YouTube (00:00). Matt finishes the show with a prediction about The Weeknd’s new movie ‘Hurry Up Tomorrow’ (00:00).

For a 20 percent discount on Matt’s Hollywood insider newsletter, ‘What I’m Hearing…’ click here.

Host: Matt Belloni

Guest: Alex Sherman

Producers: Craig Horlbeck and Jessie Lopez

Theme Song: Devon Renaldo

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Wed, 07 May 2025 08:00:00 -0000

Matt is joined by Ray Subers, senior vice president of theatrical strategy at the National Research Group, to discuss the newest iteration of their eye-opening study highlighting which stars make people most interested in going to a movie theater. They discuss why Tom Holland is so high in the ranking, why Glen Powell is so low, why Gen Z still loves the Rock and Adam Sandler, and why Zendaya is nearing the top 10. They also talk about the importance of awards campaigning, how nostalgia impacts longevity, and the power of recency bias (2:32). Matt finishes the show with an opening weekend box office prediction for ‘Final Destination: Bloodlines’ (27:15).

For a 20 percent discount on Matt’s Hollywood insider newsletter, ‘What I’m Hearing…’ click here.

Host: Matt Belloni

Guest: Ray Subers

Producers: Craig Horlbeck and Jessie Lopez

Theme Song: Devon Renaldo

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Trump's Movie Tariff Bombshell and Hollywood’s Freak-Out

Mon, 05 May 2025 20:05:00 -0000

Matt is joined by Bloomberg’s Lucas Shaw to discuss Donald Trump’s social media post announcing a plan to institute tariffs on movies coming to America that are produced in foreign countries. They investigate whether imposing a tariff on a movie is even possible, how disastrous this could be for the movie industry, and whether this could ultimately lead to a more reasonable outcome that could actually help Hollywood.

For a 20 percent discount on Matt’s Hollywood insider newsletter, ‘What I’m Hearing…’ click here.

Host: Matt Belloni

Guest: Lucas Shaw

Producers: Craig Horlbeck and Jessie Lopez

Theme Song: Devon Renaldo

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The Future of HBO (and Max?). Part 2 With CEO Casey Bloys.

Wed, 30 Apr 2025 20:00:00 -0000

Matt is back for Part 2 of his conversation with Casey Bloys to discuss what HBO and Max are looking for going forward, how he deals with competition, why he has stayed at HBO for over 20 years, the TV show he is most jealous of, what he would do as king of Hollywood for a day, and more (01:08).

For a 20 percent discount on Matt’s Hollywood insider newsletter, ‘What I’m Hearing ...,’ ⁠⁠click here⁠⁠.
Email us your thoughts! ⁠⁠thetown@spotify.com⁠⁠

Host: Matt Belloni
Guest: Casey Bloys

Producers: Craig Horlbeck and Jessie Lopez
Theme Song: Devon Renaldo

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What Is the HBO Brand in 2025? Part 1 With CEO Casey Bloys

Wed, 30 Apr 2025 08:00:00 -0000

Matt is joined by Casey Bloys, chairman and CEO of HBO and Max content, to talk about the shifting strategies of the HBO and Max brand under the new leadership of David Zaslav and Warner Bros. Discovery, the challenges of being a “something for everybody” service, why they are no longer competing with Netflix, and why HBO is still the top choice for creatives (02:48). Matt finishes the show with an opening weekend box office prediction for the Marvel film ‘Thunderbolts*’ (26:52).

For a 20 percent discount on Matt’s Hollywood insider newsletter, ‘What I’m Hearing ...,’ ⁠⁠click here⁠⁠.
Email us your thoughts! ⁠⁠thetown@spotify.com⁠⁠

Host: Matt Belloni
Guest: Casey Bloys

Producers: Craig Horlbeck and Jessie Lopez
Theme Song: Devon Renaldo

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Can Paramount Solve Its Impossible Trump Problem?

Mon, 28 Apr 2025 22:27:00 -0000

Matt is joined by Bloomberg’s Lucas Shaw to discuss the latest twist in the saga of Paramount, '60 Minutes,' and Trump after the show's executive producer Bill Owens stepped down because he “felt he lost the independence that honest journalism requires.” Matt and Lucas look at how the '60 Minutes' drama complicates things for Paramount head Shari Redstone, who desperately wants the Paramount-Skydance merger to close, and what her options are as this endless saga continues (03:01). Matt finishes the show with a prediction about Taylor Sheridan’s future with Paramount and his relationship with Paramount executive Chris McCarthy (25:06).
For a 20 percent discount on Matt’s Hollywood insider newsletter, ‘What I’m Hearing ...,’ ⁠click here⁠.
Email us your thoughts! ⁠thetown@spotify.com⁠
Host: Matt Belloni
Guest: Lucas Shaw
Producers: Craig Horlbeck and Jessie Lopez
Theme Song: Devon Renaldo

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How the Oscars’ Best Stunt Category Will Work (and Why Stars Are Still Doing Their Own)

Thu, 24 Apr 2025 22:20:00 -0000

Matt is joined by director and former stunt coordinator David Leitch (‘The Fall Guy,’ ‘Bullet Train,’ ‘Deadpool 2’) to discuss the newest category added to the Academy Awards: Achievement in Stunt Design, which will debut in 2028. David explains how this came to be, the criteria by which the category will be judged, how CGI and AI have affected stunts, which stars still do their own stunts, and how stunt design has changed over the years (02:34). Matt finishes the show with an opening weekend box office prediction for ‘The Accountant 2’ (27:18).

For a 20 percent discount on Matt’s Hollywood insider newsletter, ‘What I’m Hearing ...,’ click here.

Email us your thoughts! thetown@spotify.com

Host: Matt Belloni

Guest: David Leitch

Producers: Craig Horlbeck and Jessie Lopez

Theme Song: Devon Renaldo

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Can Netflix Become a Trillion-Dollar Company?

Wed, 23 Apr 2025 22:22:00 -0000

Matt is joined by LightShed media analyst Rich Greenfield to talk about Netflix’s latest earning reports and how it can accomplish its ambitious goals for the future. With Netflix being valued at about $450 billion and continuing to be profitable, they debate whether Netflix can reach its lofty goals of 410 million subscribers and becoming a trillion-dollar company by 2030 (02:32). Matt finishes the show with a prediction on how the new rule for Oscar voting will affect the results (26:03).

For a 20 percent discount on Matt’s Hollywood insider newsletter, ‘What I’m Hearing ...,’ click here.

Email us your thoughts! thetown@spotify.com

Host: Matt Belloni

Guest: Rich Greenfield

Producers: Craig Horlbeck and Jessie Lopez

Theme Song: Devon Renaldo

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How Did ‘Sinners’ Really Do This Weekend?

Mon, 21 Apr 2025 23:12:00 -0000

Matt is joined by Bloomberg’s Lucas Shaw and Franklin Leonard, a film executive and founder of the Black List, to discuss the weekend box office performance of ‘Sinners’, the road it has to become profitable, and the revolving conversation around the special deal that director Ryan Coogler negotiated with Warner Bros. to make it. They also debate why the international numbers for ‘Sinners’ weren’t as strong, if race has anything to do with the type of media coverage the film has received, and if the type of deal that Coogler made is the end of the studio system or just hyperbole (04:04).

For a 20 percent discount on Matt’s Hollywood insider newsletter, ‘What I’m Hearing ...,’ click here.

Email us your thoughts! thetown@spotify.com

Host: Matt Belloni

Guests: Lucas Shaw and Franklin Leonard

Producers: Craig Horlbeck and Jessie Lopez

Theme Song: Devon Renaldo

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What Streamers Really Want From Their Sitcoms, With a Netflix Showrunner

Thu, 17 Apr 2025 21:05:00 -0000

Matt is joined by David Stassen, co-creator of Netflix’s ‘Running Point,’ to talk about the many ways that TV comedy has changed in the streaming era. Dave uses his experience as a working writer and producer for over 15 years to shed some light on what's changed the most in the TV business, including why seasons of television are so much shorter now, how a shorter season affects the writing and pitching process, what streamers are looking for in the comedy space, and how the definition of success has changed (02:21). Matt finishes the show with an opening weekend box office prediction for the new Ryan Coogler film ‘Sinners’ (27:19).

For a 20 percent discount on Matt’s Hollywood insider newsletter, ‘What I’m Hearing ...,’ click here.

Email us your thoughts! thetown@spotify.com

Host: Matt Belloni

Guest: David Stassen

Producers: Craig Horlbeck and Jessie Lopez

Theme Song: Devon Renaldo

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David Zaslav and the Dying Era of Media Moguls

Tue, 15 Apr 2025 19:30:00 -0000

Matt is joined by journalist Michael Wolff to discuss his latest profile on Warner Bros. Discovery CEO David Zaslav in New York Magazine. They talk about whether—despite the bad press—he is actually doing a good job running WBD, the Hollywood he wants to live in vs. the one he's actually in, and what it means to be a media mogul in 2025 (03:32). Matt finishes the show with a prediction about the pending merger between Skydance Media and Paramount Global (25:11).

For a 20 percent discount on Matt’s Hollywood insider newsletter, ‘What I’m Hearing ...,’ click here.

Email us your thoughts! thetown@spotify.com

Host: Matt Belloni

Guest: Michael Wolff

Producers: Craig Horlbeck and Jessie Lopez

Theme Song: Devon Renaldo

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The Trump Tariff Pain Index: Who Suffers the Most in Hollywood?

Mon, 14 Apr 2025 21:20:00 -0000

Matt is joined by Bloomberg’s Lucas Shaw to parse the media landscape and determine which companies are most vulnerable amid the Trump tariff chaos. They discuss how much this volatility will cost the entertainment industry, who is best suited to weather the storm, and if this will affect the cost of production (02:45). Matt finishes the show with a prediction about 'Saturday Night Live' headed to the U.K. (25:22).

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Host: Matt Belloni

Guest: Lucas Shaw

Producers: Craig Horlbeck and Jessie Lopez

Theme Song: Devon Renaldo

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Coachella and the Changing Music Festival Hierarchy

Fri, 11 Apr 2025 23:56:00 -0000

It’s Coachella weekend, so Matt is joined by Dave Brooks, the senior director of touring at Billboard, to discuss all things music festivals. David gives us the latest on Coachella: how it's been doing lately, how much money headliners make, and whether it's still the most culturally relevant music festival in the world. They then go through a music festival power ranking, discussing which are on the rise, how the economics have changed, and where things are going (02:18). Matt finishes the show with a prediction about the newest category added to the Academy Awards (25:14).

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Host: Matt Belloni

Guest: Dave Brooks

Producers: Craig Horlbeck and Jessie Lopez

Theme Song: Devon Renaldo

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Director Eli Roth Will Kill You On-Screen for $1 Million

Wed, 09 Apr 2025 23:31:00 -0000

Matt is joined by director Eli Roth to discuss his new, all-encompassing horror media company the Horror Section, which allows horror lovers to “own” a portion of the company and share in the profits. They get into why Eli is so passionate about this idea, how the model actually works, and why the unrated horror genre is the perfect fit for a venture like this (02:41). Matt finishes the show with an opening weekend box office prediction for the Rami Malek action flick ‘The Amateur’ (26:04).

To learn more about Eli Roth’s company, click here.

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Host: Matt Belloni

Guest: Eli Roth

Producers: Craig Horlbeck and Jessie Lopez

Theme Song: Devon Renaldo

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A ‘Minecraft’ Megahit and the Studios Best Suited for Gen Z and Beyond

Mon, 07 Apr 2025 20:08:00 -0000

Matt is joined by Bloomberg’s Lucas Shaw to discuss the first surprise blockbuster of 2025, ‘A Minecraft Movie’; who deserves credit; what its success says about the current moment in IP-driven moviemaking; and whether video game adaptations are the new gold mine for attracting younger audiences (02:36). Finally, Matt makes a prediction about the ratings of the NCAA men's championship game (25:17).

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Host: Matt Belloni

Guest: Lucas Shaw

Producers: Craig Horlbeck and Jessie Lopez

Theme Song: Devon Renaldo

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Tom, Leo, Gosling (!), and the CinemaCon Studio Power Ranking

Fri, 04 Apr 2025 22:22:00 -0000

Matt is joined by The Ringer’s Sean Fennessey and Amanda Dobbins of ‘The Big Picture’ podcast to recap their recent trip to Las Vegas for CinemaCon and discuss which studio presentations were the most impressive, concerning, and confusing.

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Host: Matt Belloni

Guests: Sean Fennessey and Amanda Dobbins

Producers: Craig Horlbeck and Jessie Lopez

Theme Song: Devon Renaldo

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Agents, Managers, and the Shifting Power Dynamics of Representation

Thu, 03 Apr 2025 08:00:00 -0000

Matt is joined by Brillstein Entertainment Partners CEO Jon Liebman to discuss the difference between a manager and an agent and how that has changed over the past 20 years. Jon gives his thoughts on CAA's lawsuit against Range Media Partners, the impact of private equity’s foray into the representation world, how the end of packaging agreements has affected the representation business, and the changing of the guard at WME and UTA (03:12). Matt finishes the show with an opening weekend box office prediction for ‘A Minecraft Movie’ (26:26).

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Host: Matt Belloni

Guest: Jon Liebman

Producers: Craig Horlbeck and Jessie Lopez

Theme Song: Devon Renaldo

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Four Industry Experts Debate Hollywood’s Moviegoing Crisis

Wed, 02 Apr 2025 04:53:00 -0000

Live from CinemaCon in Las Vegas, Matt is joined by Regal CEO Eduardo Acuna, 'F1' director Joseph Kosinski, Universal global distribution chairman Peter Levinsohn, and Neon CEO Tom Quinn to answer some of the most difficult questions about the state of the theatrical business, including movies leaving theaters too soon, streaming’s impact on people’s perception of movies, and what needs to happen to get people back into movie theaters.

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Host: Matt Belloni

Guests: Eduardo Acuna, Joseph Kosinski, Peter Levinsohn, and Tom Quinn

Producers: Craig Horlbeck and Jessie Lopez

Theme Song: Devon Renaldo

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Amazon’s Studio Head Firing and the Prime Video 7-Year Report Card

Fri, 28 Mar 2025 23:48:00 -0000

Matt is joined by The Entertainment Strategy Guy to look back on the Jen Salke era at Amazon MGM Studios and dissect their television and movie strategy, what performed, what didn’t, and what lessons should be taken as they usher in a new era at the company (02:54). Matt finishes the show with a prediction on who will replace Jen Salke as the head of Amazon MGM Studios (27:24).

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Host: Matt Belloni

Guest: Entertainment Strategy Guy

Producers: Craig Horlbeck and Jessie Lopez

Theme Song: Devon Renaldo

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Why YouTubers Are Having a Hollywood Moment

Thu, 27 Mar 2025 21:05:00 -0000

Matt is joined by Dude Perfect CEO Andrew Yaffe to talk about the state of the creator economy and why popular YouTube stars are starting to partner with streamers. He outlines how a popular YouTube channel makes its money, the limitations of YouTube, the benefit of partnering with traditional Hollywood studios, and why Hollywood is growing more interested in YouTube stars (03:31). Matt finishes the show with an opening weekend box office prediction for the newest Jason Statham film, ‘A Working Man’ (26:08).

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Host: Matt Belloni

Guest: Andrew Yaffe

Producers: Craig Horlbeck and Jessie Lopez

Theme Song: Devon Renaldo

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The Most Important Movie for Each Studio in 2025

Mon, 24 Mar 2025 22:31:00 -0000

Matt is joined by Bloomberg’s Lucas Shaw to look at the upcoming theatrical slate for each of the major movie studios and determine which movie matters the most for the strategy of each company (02:17). Matt finishes the show with a prediction on where the newly available Jason Bourne franchise will land next (25:40).

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Host: Matt Belloni

Guest: Lucas Shaw

Producers: Craig Horlbeck and Jessie Lopez

Theme Song: Devon Renaldo

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Apple’s Hollywood Identity Crisis: Who Do They Want to Be?

Sat, 22 Mar 2025 00:51:00 -0000

Matt is joined by Puck’s Julia Alexander to discuss Apple’s current strategy in Hollywood—or lack thereof—the popularity of ‘Severance,’ a jump in Apple TV+ subscribers, and why now is an important time for Apple Studios to decide who it wants to be (03:00). Matt finishes the show with a prediction about the director of the next James Bond film (28:03).

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Host: Matt Belloni

Guest: Julia Alexander

Producers: Craig Horlbeck and Jessie Lopez

Theme Song: Devon Renaldo

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Trump 2.0: Should Hollywood Be Panicking?

Thu, 20 Mar 2025 01:37:00 -0000

Matt is joined by Axios senior media reporter and CNN analyst Sara Fischer to talk about the unexpected uncertainty in Hollywood under Donald Trump 2.0, and how the current administration's actions could affect every corner of the entertainment business (02:12). Matt finishes the show with two opening weekend box office predictions for ‘Snow White’ and ‘Alto Knights’ (24:40).

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Host: Matt Belloni

Guest: Sara Fischer

Producers: Craig Horlbeck and Jessie Lopez

Theme Song: Devon Renaldo

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The Four Hottest Topics Around Town: ‘Mickey 17’, Warner Bros., Trump, and Apple TV+

Tue, 18 Mar 2025 02:26:00 -0000

Matt is joined by Bloomberg’s Lucas Shaw to discuss the hottest narratives around town and give their optimistic and pessimistic views of each. These narratives include: Hollywood is catering its content to Trump’s audience, movies like ‘Mickey 17’ leaving theaters so quickly are killing theatrical films (01:41), Warner Bros. is doomed as a movie studio, and Apple TV+ is quietly becoming a hitmaker (15:35).

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Host: Matt Belloni

Guest: Lucas Shaw

Producers: Craig Horlbeck and Jessie Lopez

Theme Song: Devon Renaldo

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Lively Vs. Baldoni and the Legal Stakes With Baldoni’s Lawyer

Thu, 13 Mar 2025 08:00:00 -0000

Matt is joined by entertainment lawyer and litigator Bryan Freedman to discuss the key legal issues surrounding actor Justin Baldoni’s lawsuits against ‘It Ends With Us’ costar Blake Lively, her husband Ryan Reynolds, her PR team, and ‘The New York Times,’ as well as Blake Lively’s lawsuit against Baldoni. Matt questions Bryan about the non-disparaging agreement between Justin Baldoni and Blake Lively, the issue of regulating behavior on set, and the growing influence social media has in the PR world (03:12).

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Host: Matt Belloni

Guest: Bryan Freedman

Producers: Craig Horlbeck and Jessie Lopez

Theme Song: Devon Renaldo

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Is Netflix Spending its $18 Billion Content Budget Correctly?

Wed, 12 Mar 2025 08:00:00 -0000

Matt is joined by Bloomberg’s Lucas Shaw to parse Netflix’s latest data dump and look at what is and is not working for the streamer. Big-budget live-action movies, sitcoms, reality shows, crime documentaries, foreign films and TV all contribute to Netflix’s enormous slate of content, but which of them are working the most? Is Netflix in need of a Taylor Sheridan-like universe? Do they need $200M live-action movies? How much do they need live events like the Jake Paul-Mike Tyson fight? Should they get into podcasting? (02:56). Matt finishes the show with a prediction about Amazon’s commitment to release 12-14 movies in theaters in 2026 (23:54).

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Host: Matt Belloni

Guest: Lucas Shaw

Producers: Craig Horlbeck and Jessie Lopez

Theme Song: Devon Renaldo

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An AI Studio Making 'Quality' Movies for Dirt Cheap: Revolutionary or Dystopian?

Mon, 10 Mar 2025 08:00:00 -0000

Matt is joined by Pouya Shahbazian to discuss his company, Staircase Studios AI, a film, television, and gaming studio centered on an AI workflow that he claims revolutionizes the process of studio filmmaking. He explains how they plan to deliver “near-major-studio” levels of quality at budgets under $500,000, what their “talent-driven approach” actually looks like, and why this advancement in moviemaking technology should be embraced (02:38). Matt finishes the show with a prediction about the future of Meghan Markle’s television show on Netflix (28:21).

Watch a scene from 'The Woman with Red Hair' here.

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Host: Matt Belloni

Guest: Pouya Shahbazian

Producers: Craig Horlbeck and Jessie Lopez

Theme Song: Devon Renaldo

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How the Hell Do Nielsen Ratings Actually Work?

Fri, 07 Mar 2025 00:26:00 -0000

Matt is joined by Nielsen’s Brian Fuhrer to explain the mysterious world of ratings and how they actually work in 2025. They get into how Nielsen literally tracks viewing habits, how that has changed over the years, and how they now track out-of-home viewing. Then, they look at a surprising metric about the Oscars ratings, discuss how streaming is improving ratings among younger demos, and which shows are the most influential in terms of attracting a younger audience (03:00). Matt finishes the show with an opening weekend box office prediction for the new Bong Joon-ho film, ‘Mickey 17’ (25:53).

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Host: Matt Belloni

Guest: Brian Fuhrer

Producers: Craig Horlbeck and Jessie Lopez

Theme Song: Devon Renaldo

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How YouTube Became TV (While TV Struggles to Be YouTube)

Wed, 05 Mar 2025 09:00:00 -0000

Matt is joined by Hernan Lopez, the founder of Owl & Co and Wondery, to discuss how the narrative is rapidly shifting in the direct-to-consumer landscape now that streaming is, mostly, profitable! Hernan explains why YouTube dwarfs Netflix in consumption but Netflix dwarfs YouTube in revenue, why people are watching YouTube on TV screens more than ever, and what this means for the streaming juggernauts moving forward (02:43). Matt finishes the show with a lightning round of predictions about next year's Academy Awards (23:16).

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Host: Matt Belloni

Guest: Hernan Lopez

Producers: Craig Horlbeck and Jessie Lopez

Theme Song: Devon Renaldo

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2025 Oscars: Sneaky Winners and Losers. Plus, Neon CEO Tom Quinn on a Big Night for 'Anora'

Tue, 04 Mar 2025 01:44:00 -0000

Matt is joined by Bloomberg’s Lucas Shaw to react to last night's Academy Awards, what it was like inside the building, and list their under-the-radar winners and losers from Hollywood's biggest night (02:09). Then, Matt and Lucas are joined by NEON CEO Tom Quinn to discuss their big night winning five Academy Awards, including Best Picture, for the film ‘Anora’ (20:54). Tom talks about how they campaign their movies on such a small budget, how much a win impacts the film economically, and why indie films are succeeding more at the Oscars.

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Host: Matt Belloni

Guest: Lucas Shaw

Producers: Craig Horlbeck and Jessie Lopez

Theme Song: Devon Renaldo

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Does an Oscar Matter More or Less Than Ever?

Fri, 28 Feb 2025 09:00:00 -0000

Matt is joined by WME senior partner Robert Newman to talk about how much an Academy Award win still matters. Robert represents several accomplished auteur filmmakers and can speak to the impact an Oscar win could have on an up-and-coming director, how it influences their next project, and whether that cache has dwindled. Later he shares a few opinions on how to improve the Academy Awards (02:31). Matt finishes the show with a ratings prediction for the 97th Academy Awards (30:09).

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Host: Matt Belloni

Guest: Robert Newman

Producers: Craig Horlbeck and Jessie Lopez

Theme Song: Devon Renaldo

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Inside Tips to Predict the 2025 Oscar Winners

Thu, 27 Feb 2025 00:40:00 -0000

Matt is joined by Mosaic talent manager and Oscar enthusiast Michael Lasker to parse through the award season chatter and find a gambling edge on the Academy Awards. Matt and Michael discuss the wide-open races in the top categories—including Best Picture—as well as how many Oscars ‘Emilia Perez’ might win following Karla Sofía Gascón’s Twitter controversy, Adrien Brody vs. Timothée Chalamet, and the potential upset chances for Fernanda Torres and Jeremy Strong (02:32).

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Host: Matt Belloni

Guest: Michael Lasker

Producers: Craig Horlbeck and Jessie Lopez

Theme Song: Devon Renaldo

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Amazon and James Bond: What Could Go Wrong?

Mon, 24 Feb 2025 23:40:00 -0000

Matt is joined by Bloomberg’s Lucas Shaw to react to the shocking announcement that Barbara Broccoli and Michael G. Wilson—the controllers of the James Bond brand—have sold their creative control to Amazon. They discuss why this move was necessary for Amazon, why Barbara and Michael did this deal now, and how this will affect the James Bond franchise moving forward (02:53). Matt and Lucas finish the show by announcing the winner of the 2024 Box Office Draft (26:10).

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Host: Matt Belloni

Guest: Lucas Shaw

Producers: Craig Horlbeck and Jessie Lopez

Theme Song: Devon Renaldo

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'Severance’: When a Hit Show Goes Over Budget, Who Pays?

Thu, 20 Feb 2025 09:00:00 -0000

Matt is joined by Chris Rice, cofounder and co-CEO of Fifth Season, and producer of Apple+’s ‘Severance,' to discuss what happens when a TV show goes over budget and how to manage, who ends up footing the bill, reasons for overages, setting the budget for seasons of TV, and the current state of financing and producing independent television (02:55). Matt finishes the episode with an opening weekend box office prediction for ‘The Monkey’ (28:02).

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Host: Matt Belloni

Guest: Chris Rice

Producers: Craig Horlbeck and Jessie Lopez

Theme Song: Devon Renaldo

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SNL’s Fate After Lorne, and Streaming’s Most Overpriced Platforms

Tue, 18 Feb 2025 22:22:00 -0000

Matt is joined by Bloomberg’s Lucas Shaw to recap ‘SNL50’ and look ahead to the future of ‘SNL’ in a post–Lorne Michaels world, and wonder whether NBC will continue to finance such a costly and labor intensive show. Then they debate which streamers are under or overpriced based on a new streaming report that compares each streamer’s value based on hours viewed vs. subscription price (02:53). Matt finishes the show with a prediction about Kevin Costner’s ‘Horizon’ franchise (25:56).

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Host: Matt Belloni

Guest: Lucas Shaw

Producers: Craig Horlbeck and Jessie Lopez

Theme Song: Devon Renaldo

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What’s Next at Netflix With Content Chief Bela Bajaria, Part 2

Fri, 14 Feb 2025 23:00:00 -0000

Matt is once again joined by Netflix’s Bela Bajaria for part two of their conversation. They get into their content spend breakdown for 2025 and beyond, their foray into like programming and whether more NFL or new sports like UFC or F1 is on the way, their calculus on data transparency, and the perception of quality vs. quantity (01:13). Matt finishes the show by running through a lightning round of questions with Bela on a variety of hot-button Netflix-related questions (23:41).

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Host: Matt Belloni

Guest: Bela Bajaria

Producers: Craig Horlbeck and Jessie Lopez

Theme Song: Devon Renaldo

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Netflix vs. Everyone With Content Chief Bela Bajaria, Part 1

Fri, 14 Feb 2025 01:20:00 -0000

Matt is joined by Bela Bajaria, Netflix’s Chief Content Officer, to discuss all things Netflix, including the ‘Emilia Perez’ scandal, vetting talent, their IMAX deal with Greta Gerwig’s upcoming 'Narnia' movie, struggling to make franchise IP, and why Netflix is misunderstood (03:12). Matt finishes the show with a ratings prediction for the 'SNL50' anniversary show (32:40).

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Host: Matt Belloni

Guest: Bela Bajaria

Producers: Craig Horlbeck and Jessie Lopez

Theme Song: Devon Renaldo

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Can the ‘Emilia Pérez’ Oscars Implosion Be Salvaged?

Thu, 13 Feb 2025 00:23:00 -0000

Matt is joined by award-winning entertainment marketing executive Terry Press to discuss the social media whirlwind surrounding best picture nominated film ‘Emilia Pérez’ after tweets from its star and Best Actress nominee Karla Sofía Gascón have derailed its Oscar campaign. Terry offers her expertise and runs through the awards campaign playbook to outline how Netflix and ‘Emilia Pérez’ can salvage this implosion (02:39). Matt finishes the show with an opening weekend box office prediction for ‘Captain America: Brave New World’ (29:31).

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Host: Matt Belloni

Guest: Terry Press

Producers: Craig Horlbeck and Jessie Lopez

Theme Song: Devon Renaldo

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New Trouble for the Paramount Sale

Mon, 10 Feb 2025 22:40:00 -0000

Matt is joined by Bloomberg’s Lucas Shaw to discuss the complicated holdup in the sale of Paramount Global to David Ellison and his company, Skydance Media. They break down the situation—which involves Donald Trump's lawsuit over Kamala Harris's '60 Minutes' interview on CBS—and consider the options for Paramount Global head Shari Redstone to get this deal done. They also look ahead at the implications this may have for future mergers in Hollywood (03:32). Matt finishes the show with a prediction about the Academy Awards' Best Picture race (24:47).

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Host: Matt Belloni

Guest: Lucas Shaw

Producers: Craig Horlbeck and Jessie Lopez

Theme Song: Devon Renaldo

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NFL and Streaming: A Super Bowl Data Dive

Thu, 06 Feb 2025 09:00:00 -0000

Matt is joined by Antenna CEO Jonathan Carson to look at the NFL in the digital age and provide insight on how streamers are leveraging NFL rights as a massive subscriber event. They talk about some moves the league has made to target different fans, how much of an impact live NFL games have had on Netflix, and if the splintering of NFL rights could lead to diminishing returns (02:32). Matt finishes the show with a Super Bowl ratings prediction (25:27).

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Host: Matt Belloni

Guest: Jonathan Carson

Producers: Craig Horlbeck and Jessie Lopez

Theme Song: Devon Renaldo

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What Worries Directors: AI, Peaked TV, and Baldoni-Gate

Wed, 05 Feb 2025 09:00:00 -0000

Matt is joined by Lesli Linka Glatter and Russell Hollander, the president and director, respectively, of the Directors Guild of America, to talk about some of the most important topics for directors in the entertainment industry. They discuss how the DGA manages its relationship with SAG and the WGA; how the AI landscape has changed since its last CBA, including AI's use in the film ‘The Brutalist’; why the TV market is hurting directors; and what the DGA's role is in the Justin Baldoni–Blake Lively lawsuit (02:34). Matt finishes the show with a prediction about Super Bowl commercials (24:10).

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Host: Matt Belloni

Guest: Lesli Linka Glatter and Russell Hollander

Producers: Craig Horlbeck and Jessie Lopez

Theme Song: Devon Renaldo

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Fri, 10 Jan 2025 00:56:00 -0000

Matt is joined by Robbie Whelan from the Wall Street Journal to discuss Disney’s most popular non-theme park experience, the cruise line, and its increasing value to Disney. Matt walks us through his own personal experience on a Disney cruise over the holiday break, and they get into the business of how and why this business is so profitable and important for Disney, and if any other company has the IP to leverage something at this scale (03:04). Matt finishes the show with an opening-weekend box office prediction for ‘Den of Thieves 2: Pantera’ (27:55).

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Host: Matt Belloni

Guest: Robbie Whelan

Producers: Craig Horlbeck and Jessie Lopez

Theme Song: Devon Renaldo

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Golden Globes Takeaways and the Biggest Questions for 2025

Mon, 06 Jan 2025 22:23:00 -0000

Matt and Bloomberg’s Lucas Shaw react to the Golden Globes and Lucas gives his takeaways from inside the room Sunday night. Then they look ahead to the new year and pose their biggest industry questions of 2025 (01:48). Finally, Matt looks back at his year in predictions on The Call Sheet and Craig reveals whether this was Matt’s best or worst year of prognosticating (24:31).

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Host: Matt Belloni

Guest: Lucas Shaw

Producers: Craig Horlbeck and Jessie Lopez

Theme Song: Devon Renaldo

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The Townies, Part 2: Who Won the Year in Hollywood?

Wed, 01 Jan 2025 09:00:00 -0000

In Part 2 of the exclusive Townie Awards, Matt and Bloomberg’s Lucas Shaw decide who won the year, including executives and talent, and give out some additional awards, including: Biggest Flex; Executive Fail of the Year; Movie Marketing Miss of the Year; Suck It Haters, I Was Right; and so much more.

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Host: Matt Belloni

Guest: Lucas Shaw

Producers: Craig Horlbeck and Jessie Lopez

Theme Song: Devon Renaldo

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The Townies: Hollywood’s Best and Worst of 2024

Mon, 30 Dec 2024 09:00:00 -0000

It’s podcasting’s most exclusive event of the year: the third annual Townie Awards! Join Matt and Bloomberg’s Lucas Shaw as they go through the biggest moves, deals, and fails from 2024, while also awarding the Most Annoying Media Narrative, Sneaky Successes, Publicist Fails, Larry David Spite Store of the Year, and much more in Part 1 of this year's Townies.

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Host: Matt Belloni

Guest: Lucas Shaw

Producers: Craig Horlbeck and Jessie Lopez

Theme Song: Devon Renaldo

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Turning Music Rights Into a Bob Dylan Biopic

Wed, 25 Dec 2024 09:00:00 -0000

Matt is joined by producer Peter Jaysen to discuss his latest film, ‘A Complete Unknown,’ and how he managed to get a movie about Bob Dylan made. He details how he secured the rights to Dylan’s musical archive and life, how they chose Timothée Chalamet, how much Dylan was involved, and secrets to finding and developing top-tier IP (02:45). Matt finishes the show with a Christmas Day box office prediction for ‘A Complete Unknown’ and ‘Nosferatu’ (29:49).

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Host: Matt Belloni

Guest: Peter Jaysen

Producers: Craig Horlbeck and Jessie Lopez

Theme Song: Devon Renaldo

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A Holiday Grab Bag: Blake Vs. Baldoni, NFL on Netflix, Disney’s Next CEO, and UFC's Next Home

Mon, 23 Dec 2024 23:18:00 -0000

Matt is joined by Bloomberg’s Lucas Shaw to run through a slew of topics tied to a recent survey conducted by Shaw that polls hundreds of Hollywood insiders on some of the hottest questions around town. They also touch on the latest news in the complicated 'It Ends With Us' feud (02:02). Matt finishes the show with a ratings prediction about Netflix's NFL Christmas debut (25:47).

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Host: Matt Belloni

Guest: Lucas Shaw

Producers: Craig Horlbeck and Jessie Lopez

Theme Song: Devon Renaldo

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The Multi-Billion-Dollar Plan to Improve Going to the Movies

Fri, 20 Dec 2024 09:00:00 -0000

Matt is joined by Michael O’Leary, CEO of the National Association of Theatre Owners (NATO) to discuss their pledge to spend $2.2 billion to modernize and upgrade theaters, what that actually means, and what these new “entertainment centers” will actually look like. They also talk about the biggest successes of the year in moviegoing, how theaters can improve for the modern audience, how theaters and studios are getting along these days, and more (03:13). Matt finishes the show with a prediction on the upcoming Netflix film ‘Electric State,’ starring Millie Bobby Brown and Chris Pratt (29:29).

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Host: Matt Belloni

Guest: Michael O’Leary

Producers: Craig Horlbeck and Jessie Lopez

Theme Song: Devon Renaldo

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Making Millions on Dead Celebrities in the AI Age

Wed, 18 Dec 2024 09:00:00 -0000

Matt is joined by Mark Roesler, founder and chairman of CMG Worldwide, to discuss how AI has added a new twist to how the rights of dead famous people are being exploited. They discuss how incredibly valuable these rights are and how new technology is changing the way name, image, and likeness are being enabled to resurrect dead stars. They highlight a few recent examples, including James Earl Jones in the new ‘Mufasa: The Lion King’ film, as well as Frank Sinatra and Sammy Davis Jr. in a commercial for a new brand of gin. Mark explains how these deceased celebrities are protected in the age of AI and who is making the decision to exploit these rights (02:33). Matt finishes the show with an opening weekend box office prediction for ‘Mufasa: The Lion King’ and ‘Sonic the Hedgehog 3’ (26:20).

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Host: Matt Belloni

Guest: Mark Roesler

Producers: Craig Horlbeck and Jessie Lopez

Theme Song: Devon Renaldo

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The Fate of Warner Bros in 2025, and Iger’s Trump Capitulation

Mon, 16 Dec 2024 23:02:00 -0000

Matt is joined by Bloomberg’s Lucas Shaw to discuss why Warner Bros. Discovery is planning to separate its TV networks unit from movies and streaming and what this could signal for the company moving forward. Later they discuss ABC News’ decision to settle Donald Trump’s defamation lawsuit for $15 million and whether Disney will operate any differently under the Trump administration (02:55). Matt finishes the show with a prediction about the sports bundle Venu (26:24).

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Host: Matt Belloni

Guest: Lucas Shaw

Producers: Craig Horlbeck and Jessie Lopez

Theme Song: Devon Renaldo

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Which Movies Actually Popped (and Flopped) on Streaming in 2024?

Fri, 13 Dec 2024 22:00:00 -0000

Matt is joined by the Entertainment Strategy Guy to help find out which TV shows were the most important to their streaming service in 2024 before revealing which movies actually performed well on streaming and which largely disappointed. He runs through the biggest movie releases of the year on streaming and reveals just how successful or disappointing they were (01:26). Matt and Craig finish the show by tasting the famous Tom Cruise coconut bundt cake (26:56).

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Host: Matt Belloni

Guest: Entertainment Strategy Guy

Producers: Craig Horlbeck and Jessie Lopez

Theme Song: Devon Renaldo

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Which Streaming Shows Hit and Bombed in 2024?

Fri, 13 Dec 2024 03:32:00 -0000

Matt is joined by the Entertainment Strategy Guy, a former streaming exec, to sort through the mirky waters of streaming data and find out which streaming tv shows were actually hits, which were major flops, which were underrated successes, and which were bigger bombs than anyone thought (02:57) Matt finishes the show with an opening weekend box office prediction for ‘Kraven the Hunter’ (29:10).

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Host: Matt Belloni

Guest: Entertainment Strategy Guy

Producers: Craig Horlbeck and Jessie Lopez

Theme Song: Devon Renaldo

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Winners and Losers of 2024 in Streaming

Mon, 09 Dec 2024 23:15:00 -0000

Matt is joined by Bloomberg’s Lucas Shaw to recap the year in streaming and nominate their clear winners and losers as well as some under-the-radar services that deserve more love or criticism (01:59). Matt finishes the show by recapping the Best Picture nominations for the 2025 Golden Globes and predicting who he thinks will take home the top award for Best Motion Picture–Drama and Best Motion Picture–Musical or Comedy (26:16).

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Host: Matt Belloni

Guest: Lucas Shaw

Producers: Craig Horlbeck and Jessie Lopez

Theme Song: Devon Renaldo

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ESPN on Disney+, Cable’s Spinoff Moment, and Who Would Buy CNN?

Sat, 07 Dec 2024 00:33:00 -0000

Matt is joined by LightShed Media analyst Rich Greenfield to talk about SpinCo, Comcast’s new spinoff company of cable and digital networks, and look at potential ramifications of the spinoff. They also discuss the implications this has on other media companies like Warner Bros. Discovery, Paramount, and Disney, then get into the coming game of musical chairs in the TV network business (02:26). Matt finishes the show with a prediction about the second annual NBA Cup tournament (27:16).

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Host: Matt Belloni

Guest: Rich Greenfield

Producers: Craig Horlbeck and Jessie Lopez

Theme Song: Devon Renaldo

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Equal Pay, Equal Stake: A Filmmaking Experiment

Fri, 06 Dec 2024 01:16:00 -0000

Matt is joined by filmmakers Clint Bentley and Greg Kwedar to talk about their unique payment model behind their latest film, ‘Sing Sing.' They discuss how they managed to pay everyone on set, from lead actor to production assistant, the exact same amount of money while offering everyone who worked on the film equity in the film and still make everyone happy (02:17). Matt finishes the show with a prediction about the potential for a Best Picture nomination for a particular film. Matt also reveals that he has finally got his hands on the famous Tom Cruise coconut cake (24:55).

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Host: Matt Belloni

Guest: Clint Bentley and Greg Kwedar

Producers: Craig Horlbeck and Jessie Lopez

Theme Song: Devon Renaldo

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Does Disney Have Its Movie Mojo Back?

Mon, 02 Dec 2024 23:17:00 -0000

Matt is joined by Bloomberg’s Lucas Shaw to recap a busy month at the box office, including a record-setting Thanksgiving weekend for ‘Moana 2’ after strong showings for ‘Wicked’ and ‘Gladiator II.’ They dig into Disney's dominant year at the box office and look ahead to its 2025 slate to see if its hot streak can continue.

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Host: Matt Belloni

Guest: Lucas Shaw

Producers: Craig Horlbeck and Jessie Lopez

Theme Song: Devon Renaldo

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‘Dune’ Director Denis Villeneuve on Plans for Part 3, ‘Star Wars’ Interest, and Art Vs. Commerce

Wed, 27 Nov 2024 09:00:00 -0000

Live from Los Angeles, Matt is joined by director Denis Villeneuve to discuss how he learns from past films, what he learned from his latest film ('Dune: Part Two'), and whether he will return to direct the third part. Denis also talks about his love for the original 'Star Wars' and whether he would ever consider directing one of his own, his thoughts on the current state of the industry, and how he balances art vs. commerce in moviemaking (01:41). Matt finishes the show with an opening weekend box office prediction for ‘Moana 2’ (31:28).

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Host: Matt Belloni

Guest: Denis Villeneuve

Producers: Craig Horlbeck and Jessie Lopez

Theme Song: Devon Renaldo

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The Young Movie Star Draft

Mon, 25 Nov 2024 23:05:00 -0000

Matt is joined by Bloomberg’s Lucas Shaw to conduct The Town’s first ever Young Movie Star Draft. Matt and Lucas must each draft three actors and three actresses under the age of 35 who they think have the best shot at becoming the next big theatrical movie star. For an added twist, they can only select two people in each of the three age brackets of 20-25, 26-30, and 31-35.

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Host: Matt Belloni

Guest: Lucas Shaw

Producers: Craig Horlbeck and Jessie Lopez

Theme Song: Devon Renaldo

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‘Anora’ Actress Mikey Madison. Plus, ‘Wicked’ Vs. ‘Gladiator II’!

Fri, 22 Nov 2024 09:00:00 -0000

Live from Los Angeles, Matt is joined by actress Mikey Madison to talk about her new movie ‘Anora’, working for director Sean Baker, how she was cast in Quentin Tarantino’s film ‘Once Upon a Time In … Hollywood,’ why she wants a Hollywood mentor, and more (01:56). Matt then finishes the show with an opening box office prediction for ‘Wicked: Part One’ and ‘Gladiator II’ (18:40).

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Host: Matt Belloni

Guest: Mikey Madison

Producers: Craig Horlbeck and Jessie Lopez

Theme Song: Devon Renaldo

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Secrets of the NBA-TNT Divorce Settlement With Bill Simmons

Wed, 20 Nov 2024 21:23:00 -0000

Matt is joined by The Ringer’s Bill Simmons to talk about the painful split between the NBA and Turner after a 30-year partnership. They discuss why the relationship blew up, details and questions surrounding the move of the popular studio talk show ‘Inside the NBA’ to ESPN, and whether there is a chance that this will work out for Warner Bros. Discovery CEO David Zaslav in the long run.

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Host: Matt Belloni

Guest: Bill Simmons

Producers: Craig Horlbeck and Jessie Lopez

Theme Song: Devon Renaldo

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Disney’s Streaming Turnaround and Netflix’s Boxing Debut

Tue, 19 Nov 2024 00:03:00 -0000

Matt is joined by Bloomberg’s Lucas Shaw to talk about Disney reaching profitability in streaming, how Bob Iger managed to turn the company around in his two years since returning as CEO, and whether this is the beginning of a larger turnaround for Disney. Later, they discuss Netflix’s Jake Paul vs. Mike Tyson boxing event, the glitchy live broadcast, what this means for Netflix in general, and its upcoming NFL games on Christmas (03:03). Matt finishes the show by predicting how recently announced Oscars host Conan O’Brien will affect the ratings of the 2025 Academy Awards (24:12).

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Host: Matt Belloni

Guest: Lucas Shaw

Producers: Craig Horlbeck and Jessie Lopez

Theme Song: Devon Renaldo

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Digital TV Giants: Amazon, Google, and … Roku?

Fri, 15 Nov 2024 09:00:00 -0000

Matt is joined by Charlie Collier, the president of Roku Media, to talk about the most under-discussed streaming player in Hollywood, how it differentiates itself from other companies, and how they compete with tech giants Amazon and Google. He also discusses what he learned running AMC and Fox’s broadcast network and how the industry has changed, then makes the case for the return of ad-supported television on streaming (02:53). Matt finishes the show by commenting on John Krasinski as People’s Sexiest Man Alive and explains how ‘People Magazine’ chooses its winners (26:17).

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Host: Matt Belloni

Guest: Charlie Collier

Producers: Craig Horlbeck and Jessie Lopez

Theme Song: Devon Renaldo

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Martha Stewart and When a Celeb Disavows Their Doc—With the Director!

Wed, 13 Nov 2024 09:00:00 -0000

Matt is joined by R.J. Cutler, director of the Netflix documentary ‘Martha,’ as well as the upcoming film ‘Elton John: Never Too Late,’ to talk about Martha Stewart’s disapproval of the film, directors maintaining creative control over their projects, and the inherent and necessary struggle of collaborating with a major celebrity on a documentary (02:17). Matt finishes the show with an opening weekend box office prediction for the new Christmas movie ‘Red One’ (25:57).

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Host: Matt Belloni

Guest: R.J. Cutler

Producers: Craig Horlbeck and Jessie Lopez

Theme Song: Devon Renaldo

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Netflix’s Greta Gerwig Situation, a Buried Clint Eastwood Movie, and Streaming’s Good Week

Mon, 11 Nov 2024 23:11:00 -0000

Matt is joined by Bloomberg’s Lucas Shaw to discuss the latest Warner Bros. Discovery earnings and if streaming has finally turned a corner in becoming a viable business (02:53). Then they dig into Netflix recently granting Greta Gerwig’s upcoming Narnia movie IMAX theaters and if this marks the beginning of a new trend for Netflix (13:22). Finally, they get into why a seemingly great Clint Eastwood movie, 'Juror #2' has been buried by its studio, Warner Bros. Discovery (20:19). Matt finishes the show with a prediction about the future of the ‘Mission Impossible’ franchise (26:21).

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Host: Matt Belloni

Guest: Lucas Shaw

Producers: Craig Horlbeck and Jessie Lopez

Theme Song: Devon Renaldo

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Winners and Losers of Hollywood Under Trump 2.0

Fri, 08 Nov 2024 00:03:00 -0000

Matt is joined by Axios media reporter Sara Fischer to discuss the Hollywood business implications of the second Trump presidency. They get into the possibility for more M&A, specifically Warner Bros. Discovery and LIV-PGA, whether Trump will go after big tech, the future of TikTok in the United States, and the future of content moderation (02:31). Matt finishes the show with a prediction related to the latest announcement that a new ‘Star Wars’ trilogy is in the works (26:57).

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Host: Matt Belloni

Guest: Sara Fischer

Producers: Craig Horlbeck and Jessie Lopez

Theme Song: Devon Renaldo

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How Much Money a Hit TV Show Can Make (and How It’s Changed)

Wed, 06 Nov 2024 09:00:00 -0000

Matt is joined by John Mass, president of Content Partners, to talk about how making money in TV has changed in the last 10 to 15 years. John walks us through how a TV show is financed, how the market has changed because of the streaming model, and how it has upended the way participants make money. They also talk about the bygone days of producers owning shows, the heyday of the syndication era, and if a correction is coming (02:29). Matt finishes the episode with a prediction about the upcoming battle between ‘Wicked: Part One’ and ‘Gladiator 2’ (34:38).

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Host: Matt Belloni

Guest: John Mass

Producers: Craig Horlbeck and Jessie Lopez

Theme Song: Devon Renaldo

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The Existential Crisis of the Cable Juggernauts

Mon, 04 Nov 2024 23:23:00 -0000

Matt is joined by Bloomberg’s Lucas Shaw to discuss Comcast's exploration of spinning off its cable assets into a separate company, which could potentially mark the wider restructuring of its NBCUniversal division. They talk about how legacy media companies are struggling with how to handle their linear television business, what a division of assets might look like for Comcast, and whether a streaming partner makes sense for NBC and Peacock (02:43). Matt finishes the show with a ratings prediction for the 2024 presidential election (26:05).

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Host: Matt Belloni

Guest: Lucas Shaw

Producers: Craig Horlbeck and Jessie Lopez

Theme Song: Devon Renaldo

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Is There a Right Way to Use AI to Make Movies?

Thu, 31 Oct 2024 22:07:00 -0000

Matt is joined by Tobias Queisser, the CEO of Cinelytic, to make the case for AI as a tool and not the enemy in Hollywood. He explains how AI can help studios green-light the right movies and help financiers invest in the right projects. He explains how his predictive models work and why AI should not be seen as a villain when it is used on the business side and not for creative (02:27). Matt finishes the show with an opening weekend box office prediction for Robert Zemeckis’s newest film, ‘Here,’ starring Tom Hanks and Robin Wright (24:44).

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Host: Matt Belloni

Guests: Tobias Queisser

Producers: Craig Horlbeck and Jessie Lopez

Theme Song: Devon Renaldo

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FX’s John Landgraf on Resisting the Algorithm, Green-lighting ‘Shogun’, and ‘The Bear’ S3

Tue, 29 Oct 2024 17:00:00 -0000

Live from NeueHouse in L.A. Matt is joined by Lucas Shaw and FX CEO John Landgraf for the second half of their conversation about the state of television. They discuss his curation process at FX, how Disney has changed FX, how ‘Shogun’ came together, and what happened with Season 3 of ‘The Bear.’ They also talk about HBO's recent struggles, the importance of process and the problem with the decentralized power at streaming services (01:34).

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Host: Matt Belloni

Guests: Lucas Shaw and John Landgraf

Producers: Craig Horlbeck and Jessie Lopez

Theme Song: Devon Renaldo

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FX Chief John Landgraf on Silicon Valley’s Effect on Hollywood

Mon, 28 Oct 2024 17:00:00 -0000

Live from NeueHouse in L.A., Matt is first joined by Bloomberg’s Lucas Shaw to revisit their movie studio power rankings and update their list of which studios and streamers are the preferred homes for movie projects in 2024 (02:55). Then, Matt and Lucas are joined by FX chairman John Landgraf for Part 1 of their conversation about the state of television. They talk about the reason for the oversaturated television market, how the streaming model has affected the quality of shows being made, and what Silicon Valley is doing to the entertainment industry at large (17:48).

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Host: Matt Belloni

Guest: Lucas Shaw and John Landgraf

Producers: Craig Horlbeck and Jessie Lopez

Theme Song: Devon Renaldo

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The Post-Pandemic Life of a Hustling Screenwriter

Fri, 25 Oct 2024 22:00:00 -0000

Matt is joined by writer Bruce Eric Kaplan ('Girls', 'Seinfeld', 'Six Feet Under') to discuss the life of a TV writer and how it has changed over the years, particularly coming out of the pandemic. Bruce talks about his new book chronicling his time during the pandemic as a struggling screenwriter, joining Season 2 of the hit Netflix show ‘Nobody Wants This’, the bursting of the peak TV bubble, the psychology of the working writer, and if there is room for optimism moving forward (02:31). Matt finishes the show with opening weekend box office predictions for ‘Venom 3: The Last Dance’ and ‘Conclave’. (21:30).

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Host: Matt Belloni

Guest: Bruce Eric Kaplan

Producers: Craig Horlbeck and Jessie Lopez

Theme Song: Devon Renaldo

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Netflix: Unstoppable or Overvalued?

Mon, 21 Oct 2024 21:25:00 -0000

Matt is joined by Bloomberg’s Lucas Shaw to first talk about Disney’s report that it would name a new chief executive in “early 2026.” Then they offer their takeaways from Netflix’s latest earning report by looking at the streamer’s five pressure points: advertising, the threat of bundling, theaters, compensation, and growth (02:46). Matt finishes the show with a prediction about World Series ratings (29:06).

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Host: Matt Belloni

Guest: Lucas Shaw

Producers: Craig Horlbeck and Jessie Lopez

Theme Song: Devon Renaldo

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The New Era of ‘SNL,’ 50th Plans, and ‘Saturday Night’

Thu, 17 Oct 2024 22:40:00 -0000

Matt is joined by ‘SNL’ expert, author, and journalist James Andrew Miller to assess the state of ‘SNL’ and go through some lightning-round questions about the current season, the 50th anniversary show, upcoming ‘SNL’ documentaries, and the movie ‘Saturday Night’ (02:25). Matt finishes the show with an opening weekend box office prediction for ‘Smile 2’ (30:26).

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Host: Matt Belloni

Guest: James Andrew Miller

Producers: Craig Horlbeck and Jessie Lopez

Theme Song: Devon Renaldo

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The Secret Recipe For an Indie Horror Hit

Tue, 15 Oct 2024 23:09:00 -0000

Matt is joined by Cineverse CEO Chris McGurk to talk about the rise of independently financed horror movies and how to turn a low-budget film into a bona fide hit. They talk about the indie horror marketing playbook and whether the recent boom in low-budget horror is a fluke or a trend (02:28). Later, Matt makes a prediction about the future of Legendary Pictures (23:08).

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Host: Matt Belloni

Guest: Chris McGurk

Producers: Craig Horlbeck and Jessie Lopez

Theme Song: Devon Renaldo

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The Hollywood Stock Market: Travis Kelce, J.Lo, DC Studios, Prime Video, Todd Phillips, and More!

Fri, 11 Oct 2024 08:00:00 -0000

Live from Bloomberg’s Screentime event in Los Angeles, Matt and Lucas Shaw make their case for buying the dip or selling high on some of the biggest entities across Hollywood. Topics include Travis Kelce’s media career, Amazon Prime Video, Todd Phillips, K-pop, Jennifer Lopez’s movie career, sports docs, Lionsgate, and much more!

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Host: Matt Belloni

Guest: Lucas Shaw

Producers: Craig Horlbeck and Jessie Lopez

Theme Song: Devon Renaldo

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Is Hollywood Screwing Up Male Characters?

Wed, 09 Oct 2024 21:56:00 -0000

Matt is joined by Fergus Navaratnam-Blair from National Research Group to discuss the evolution of male characters on-screen in Hollywood and what the next generation wants to see from male archetypes. Fergus explains who young men currently look up to the most in 2024 and how these role models have shifted over the years. They discuss the more fictionalized characters and superheroes in popular culture, how Hollywood sells masculinity to young men, and whether there is a market opportunity for storytellers to make new male characters that resonate with the next generation (02:40). Matt finishes the show with a trifecta of opening weekend box office predictions for ‘Terrifier 3,’ ‘Saturday Night,’ and ‘The Apprentice’ (25:14).

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Host: Matt Belloni

Guest: Fergus Navaratnam-Blair

Producers: Craig Horlbeck and Jessie Lopez

Theme Song: Devon Renaldo

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The 'Joker 2' Mega Flop and a New CEO at Sony Pictures

Mon, 07 Oct 2024 22:20:00 -0000

Matt is joined by Bloomberg’s Lucas Shaw to discuss the ‘Joker: Folie à Deux’ flop and its ramifications for Warner Bros. Discovery and the DC Universe before getting into the latest shakeup at Sony Pictures, where CEO Tony Vinciquerra has stepped down and is being replaced by COO Ravi Ahuja. They talk about the state of Sony Pictures, why it never entered the Streaming Wars and instead opted to sell its content to other companies, how its balance sheet looks compared to other studios, its lack of major franchises, and how it’s positioned moving forward (03:01). Matt finishes the show with a prediction about ‘Joker: Folie à Deux’ director Todd Phillips’s next movie (25:16).

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Host: Matt Belloni

Guest: Lucas Shaw

Producers: Craig Horlbeck and Jessie Lopez

Theme Song: Devon Renaldo

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Burning Questions for the Most Uncertain Oscar Race in Years

Fri, 04 Oct 2024 19:16:00 -0000

Matt is joined by New York Times awards season reporter Kyle Buchanan to preview the 2024-25 Oscar race now that the table is mostly set. Kyle sets the table for a fascinating Oscar season—one without a clear front-runner like ‘Oppenheimer’ was last year—and highlights the biggest narratives that have emerged, including the movies with the strongest momentum, early 2024 films that could make a last-second surge, and other burning questions (02:09). Matt finishes the show with a prediction about the MLB playoffs (28:28).

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Host: Matt Belloni

Guest: Kyle Buchanan

Producers: Craig Horlbeck and Jessie Lopez

Theme Song: Devon Renaldo

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The End of the $20M TV Host Era

Wed, 02 Oct 2024 22:11:00 -0000

Matt is joined by Puck’s Dylan Byers to discuss the economic realignment that is coming to television and the beginning of the end of the on-air star system in television. They talk about Hoda Kotb’s exit from ‘The Today Show,’ the outsized contracts for news TV hosts, how much these hosts still move the needle for the business of TV news, how the on-air business of sports differs from TV news, and whether news can successfully transition to streaming (02:33). Matt finishes the show with an opening weekend box office prediction for ‘Joker: Folie à Deux’ (25:49).

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Host: Matt Belloni

Guest: Dylan Byers

Producers: Craig Horlbeck and Jessie Lopez

Theme Song: Devon Renaldo

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How Should Movie and TV Stars Be Paid?

Mon, 30 Sep 2024 22:14:00 -0000

Matt is joined by Bloomberg’s Lucas Shaw to discuss how the way that actors make money in Hollywood is changing, pivoting from up-front buyouts to a more traditional model of back-end-contingent profit participation. They discuss which model makes the most sense in 2024 and beyond and how this might differ for talent and talent representation (03:47). Lucas sticks around to announce the results of the 2024 Concert Tour Draft from 'The Town' (26:03).

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Email us your thoughts! thetown@spotify.com

Host: Matt Belloni

Guest: Lucas Shaw

Producers: Craig Horlbeck and Jessie Lopez

Theme Song: Devon Renaldo

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Lionsgate, Meta, and a Wild Week in AI

Fri, 27 Sep 2024 21:57:00 -0000

Matt is joined by Justine Bateman—writer, director, producer, and SAG-AFTRA negotiation committee consultant on the use of AI— to check in on the latest developments on AI in entertainment. They discuss Lionsgate’s new deal with AI company Runway to make movies and shows more efficiently, Meta’s new deal with celebrities to voice a new AI chatbot, and whether other studios will follow suit (02:24). Matt finishes the show with two opening weekend box office predictions for 'Megalopolis' and the animated film ‘The Wild Robot’ (26:03).

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Host: Matt Belloni

Guest: Justine Bateman

Producers: Craig Horlbeck and Jessie Lopez

Theme Song: Devon Renaldo

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How to Make Your Own TV Show (and Get Netflix to Buy It)

Wed, 25 Sep 2024 08:00:00 -0000

Matt is joined by actor, writer, producer, and director Mark Duplass to discuss the process of independently financing your own television show, as he did with his new show ‘Penelope’ on Netflix, and he makes the case for why more people should be doing this. Additionally, they talk about the biggest differences between the television and film business models, why indie film is so much more popular right now, and how the indie TV model could be lucrative for A-listers (02:19). Matt finishes the show with a prediction about the season premiere of 'Saturday Night Live' (25:47).

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Host: Matt Belloni

Guest: Mark Duplass

Producers: Craig Horlbeck and Jessie Lopez

Theme Song: Devon Renaldo

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Biggest Takeaways From Netflix’s New Data Dump

Mon, 23 Sep 2024 21:36:00 -0000

Matt is joined by Bloomberg’s Lucas Shaw to discuss Netflix’s latest “data dump” revealing their most-viewed shows and movies over the first half of 2024. They parse the numbers and give their biggest takeaways from the data release, as well as look at the broader state of streamer transparency (02:49).

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Host: Matt Belloni

Guest: Lucas Shaw

Producers: Craig Horlbeck and Jessie Lopez

Theme Song: Devon Renaldo

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The War Over the Secret Nine-Hour Prince Documentary

Fri, 20 Sep 2024 23:55:00 -0000

Matt is joined by Sasha Weiss, deputy editor at New York Times, to talk about the battle over the nine-hour multipart Prince documentary helmed by Oscar-winning filmmaker Ezra Edelman (‘O.J.: Made in America’) that is at risk of never releasing. They dive into Sasha’s latest reporting, which revealed how this project was stranded after a surprising objection from the late music icon’s dueling estates that the film is too long. They talk about Netflix’s role in this battle, what the doc reveals about Prince, and whether there is more to this story (2:26). Matt finishes the show with a prediction about the viewership numbers for the next six months on Netflix (26:53).

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Host: Matt Belloni

Guest: Sasha Weiss

Producers: Craig Horlbeck and Jessie Lopez

Theme Song: Devon Renaldo

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The Screenwriter Struggle and How to Break Through

Wed, 18 Sep 2024 20:02:00 -0000

Matt is joined by The Black List founder Franklin Leonard to dig into the state of screenwriting in Hollywood and how the landscape has changed over the past five years and since the strike. They discuss the decline in research and development on the studio level, how this has affected aspiring writers, if there is room for optimism, and if it's still possible to break through (2:25). Matt finishes the show with an opening weekend box office prediction for the movie ‘Transformers One’ (26:03).

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Host: Matt Belloni

Guest: Franklin Leonard

Producers: Craig Horlbeck and Jessie Lopez

Theme Song: Devon Renaldo

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The Real Winners and Losers of the Emmys With the ‘Hacks’ Creators!

Mon, 16 Sep 2024 23:00:00 -0000

Matt is joined by Bloomberg’s Lucas Shaw to recap last night’s Emmys and nominate the under-discussed winners and losers from TV’s biggest night (02:21). Later, ‘Hacks’ creators Jen Statsky, Lucia Aniello, and Paul W. Downs call in to talk about their big win for Outstanding Comedy Series, how they pitched the show to HBO, and the state of the comedy genre (15:58).

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Host: Matt Belloni

Guest: Lucas Shaw, Jen Statsky, Lucia Aniello, and Paul W. Downs

Producers: Craig Horlbeck and Jessie Lopez

Theme Song: Devon Renaldo

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The Dire State of Movie Development

Thu, 12 Sep 2024 17:00:00 -0000

LIVE SHOW: LOS ANGELES, OCTOBER 24. Click here for tickets!

Matt is joined by producer David Beaubaire to discuss the troubled state of movie development at the studio level and address why this is a major problem for the movie business. He outlines how the development process has dramatically changed over the years and why this crisis needs to be solved (03:43). Matt finishes the show with a prediction about the upcoming Emmy Awards (29:28).

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Host: Matt Belloni

Guest: David Beaubaire

Producers: Craig Horlbeck and Jessie Lopez

Theme Song: Devon Renaldo

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Seth Meyers on Late Night’s Future, 'SNL' 50, and Lorne’s Successor

Wed, 11 Sep 2024 08:00:00 -0000

Matt is joined by Seth Meyers to discuss the evolving state of late-night television, making content that will work on digital, and the growing trend of the online celebrity interview show. Seth also gives his thoughts on the upcoming 50th anniversary extravaganza for 'SNL,' who should take over 'SNL' after Lorne Michaels, and Jason Reitman’s new movie, ‘Saturday Night’ (02:12). Matt finishes the show with a recap of his time at TIFF and predicts which films are in the running for the coveted People’s Choice Award (28:36).

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Host: Matt Belloni

Guest: Seth Meyers

Producers: Craig Horlbeck and Jessie Lopez

Theme Song: Devon Renaldo

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Five Burning Hollywood Questions for the Rest of 2024

Mon, 09 Sep 2024 21:27:00 -0000

Matt is joined by Bloomberg’s Lucas Shaw to pose their five biggest questions about the entertainment industry for the remainder of 2024. They discuss Disney and Bob Iger’s succession plan, whether the election will fundamentally change Hollywood, whether we could lose a streaming service in the next four months, and how this award season stacks up to those from past years (02:00).

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Host: Matt Belloni

Guest: Lucas Shaw

Producers: Craig Horlbeck and Jessie Lopez

Theme Song: Devon Renaldo

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How to Choose the Right Festival to Premiere Your Movie

Fri, 06 Sep 2024 19:31:00 -0000

It’s fall festival season! Matt is joined by Peter Kujawski, the chairman of Focus Features, to discuss the science of premiering a movie at a film festival. Peter provides his expertise on why you bring a certain movie to a certain festival, the risk involved, and which specific festivals are best suited for certain types of films. They also discuss the politics of these festivals jockeying to attain the world premieres of splashy titles, and which festival award is the most coveted (02:51). Matt ends the show with an opening weekend box office prediction for ‘Beetlejuice Beetlejuice’ (26:10).

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Host: Matt Belloni

Guest: Peter Kujawski

Producers: Craig Horlbeck and Jessie Lopez

Theme Song: Devon Renaldo

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Who's to Blame for the ESPN Blackout?

Tue, 03 Sep 2024 23:16:00 -0000

Matt is joined by Bloomberg’s Lucas Shaw to discuss the contentious TV carriage dispute between Disney and DirecTV, leaving millions of customers unable to watch the U.S. Open, college football, and potentially 'Monday Night Football' starting next week. They unpack the details of this battle, debate who has more leverage, and predict who will win (03:20). Matt finishes the show with a prediction about the future of the Donald Trump origin story movie, ‘The Apprentice’ (25:31).

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Host: Matt Belloni

Guest: Lucas Shaw

Producers: Craig Horlbeck and Jessie Lopez

Theme Song: Devon Renaldo

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Should Someone Step In to Save Warner Bros. Discovery?

Thu, 29 Aug 2024 17:00:00 -0000

Matt is joined by media analyst Steven Cahall to talk about Warner Bros. Discovery, which continues to struggle despite its slew of amazing assets, and why a change in leadership or strategy has not been demanded by activist investors. They discuss WBD’s reliance on linear television, how it lost its NBA rights, and what it should be doing to turn things around (03:00). Matt finishes the show with a prediction about the Golden Globes after it was announced that comedian Nikki Glaser will host the event (27:12).

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Host: Matt Belloni

Guest: Steven Cahall

Producers: Craig Horlbeck and Jessie Lopez

Theme Song: Devon Renaldo

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Summer Box Office Winners, Losers, and Head-Scratchers

Tue, 27 Aug 2024 22:02:00 -0000

Matt welcomes back Puck’s Scott Mendelson to judge their early May box office predictions for this summer's most anticipated blockbusters, including ‘The Fall Guy,’ ‘Inside Out 2,’ ‘Twisters,’ and ‘Deadpool & Wolverine.’ They also declare the official winners and losers of the summer and look ahead to the most anticipated movie of the fall, ‘Beetlejuice, Beetlejuice’ (02:19).

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Host: Matt Belloni

Guest: Scott Mendelson

Producers: Craig Horlbeck and Jessie Lopez

Theme Song: Devon Renaldo

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The Billionaire Battle for Paramount and the Return of 'Ted Lasso'

Mon, 26 Aug 2024 20:53:00 -0000

Matt is joined by Puck’s William D. Cohan to discuss the never-ending battle for control of Paramount, which has been further complicated by an 11th-hour offer for Paramount from billionaire Edgar Bronfman Jr. Matt and Bill explain who Bronfman is, simplify the complicated details of his pitch, and decide whether Bronfman's or David Ellison’s deal is better (03:33). Matt finishes the show by breaking some news about the return of the hit Apple TV+ show ‘Ted Lasso’ and making a prediction about its lead character in Season 4 (23:49).

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Host: Matt Belloni

Guest: William D. Cohan

Producers: Craig Horlbeck and Jessie Lopez

Theme Song: Devon Renaldo

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Are Expensive Showrunner Deals Worth It?

Fri, 23 Aug 2024 21:30:00 -0000

Matt is joined by Lesley Goldberg, former TV editor of The Hollywood Reporter, to look at the most costly showrunner deals of the peak TV era and determine which were the best and worst deals for the respective studios. They discuss the nine-figure deals that led to zero new shows, and the biggest underperformers of Hollywood’s hyperinflated peak TV era (02:44).

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Host: Matt Belloni

Guest: Lesley Goldberg

Producers: Craig Horlbeck and Jessie Lopez

Theme Song: Devon Renaldo

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The Arms Race Behind Where Movies Shoot

Wed, 21 Aug 2024 18:15:00 -0000

Matt is joined by Joe Chianese, SVP of Incentives at Entertainment Partners, to talk about where movies are being shot these days, how tax incentives play a role, what a city or country offers to a production, and why California is no longer the filming mecca it once was (02:36). Matt finishes the show with a prediction about Travis Kelce’s potential movie career (27:00).

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Host: Matt Belloni

Guest: Joe Chianese

Producers: Craig Horlbeck and Jessie Lopez

Theme Song: Devon Renaldo

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A New Setback in Hollywood's Cable Crisis

Mon, 19 Aug 2024 22:31:00 -0000

Matt is joined by CNBC media and sports reporter Alex Sherman to talk about the delayed launch of Venu, the planned sports streaming venture by ESPN, Fox, and Warner Bros. Discovery, after a federal judge granted FuboTV's motion for a preliminary injunction. They discuss why this happened, whether this is bad for consumers, and offer up their winners and losers of this ruling (03:26). Matt finishes the show with a prediction about the ratings of the Democratic National Convention (26:43).

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Host: Matt Belloni

Guest: Alex Sherman

Producers: Craig Horlbeck and Jessie Lopez

Theme Song: Devon Renaldo

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The Legacy of the Infamous Sony Hack, 10 Years Later

Thu, 15 Aug 2024 16:00:00 -0000

Matt is joined by podcaster and journalist Brian Raftery to talk about the 10-year anniversary of the infamous Sony hack, how it changed the perception of Hollywood, how it affected the way villains are portrayed in movies, if North Korea was really to blame, and if this could this happen again (03:08). Matt finishes the show with an opening-weekend box office prediction for ‘Alien: Romulus’ (27:31).

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Host: Matt Belloni

Guest: Brian Raftery

Producers: Craig Horlbeck and Jessie Lopez

Theme Song: Devon Renaldo

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Kamala’s Hollywood Connections: Do They Help or Hurt?

Wed, 14 Aug 2024 08:00:00 -0000

Matt is joined by Puck senior political correspondent Tara Palmeri to discuss Hollywood’s place in the 2024 election now that Kamala Harris is the Democratic nominee. They talk about Kamala’s close Hollywood ties, including her close friendship with Disney’s head of TV, Dana Walden; the upcoming debate on ABC; and the current state of the Hollywood fundraising apparatus (02:44).

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Host: Matt Belloni

Guest: Tara Palmeri

Producers: Craig Horlbeck and Jessie Lopez

Theme Song: Devon Renaldo

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Why Can’t Apple Figure Out Movies?

Mon, 12 Aug 2024 21:50:00 -0000

Matt is joined by Bloomberg’s Lucas Shaw to discuss Apple’s puzzling film strategy after the company's latest announcement that ‘Wolfs,' an action comedy starring Brad Pitt and George Clooney, will no longer get a wide theatrical release. Matt and Lucas wonder how interested Apple is in putting movies in theaters, how new pressure to cut spending is affecting its film strategy, and how much creators like working with the tech giant (02:57). Matt finishes the show with a prediction about Peacock’s subscriber growth after the Olympics (26:15).

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Host: Matt Belloni

Guest: Lucas Shaw

Producers: Craig Horlbeck and Jessie Lopez

Theme Song: Devon Renaldo

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The Biggest Losers of Hollywood’s Cable-pocalypse

Fri, 09 Aug 2024 20:55:00 -0000

Matt is joined by LightShed media analyst Rich Greenfield to discuss the newest and most dire stage of the linear TV meltdown, with multi-billion-dollar write-offs at Warner Bros. Discovery and Paramount. They get into why these companies are only now acknowledging their TV assets are such a problem, debate whether or not anyone should be paying billions of dollars for NBA rights in 2025, and whether David Zaslav is on the hot seat (03:10). Matt finishes the show with a prediction about the future of Apple Studios (27:17).

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Host: Matt Belloni

Guest: Rich Greenfield

Producers: Craig Horlbeck and Jessie Lopez

Theme Song: Devon Renaldo

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Disney’s Streaming Profits and Parks Problem

Wed, 07 Aug 2024 23:33:00 -0000

Matt is joined by NYT staff reporter Brooks Barnes to discuss the latest Disney earnings report, which resulted in a drop in stock price after Disney reported a slowdown in Disney parks attendance. They talk about the state of the parks, including customer dissatisfaction with price hikes, Universal parks vs. Disney parks, and the upcoming D23 conference. They also discuss Disney's ability to reach profitability in streaming, incoming price hikes for Disney+ and Hulu, whether a looming recession could affect the next few quarters, and Bob Iger's perception among Disney fans (02:57). Matt finishes the show with a prediction on this weekend’s box office for ‘Borderlands' and 'It Ends with Us’ (26:04).

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Host: Matt Belloni

Guest: Brooks Barnes

Producers: Craig Horlbeck and Jessie Lopez

Theme Song: Devon Renaldo

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Has the Music Industry Peaked?

Mon, 05 Aug 2024 20:51:00 -0000

Matt is joined by Bloomberg’s Lucas Shaw to discuss whether it's time to panic for the music industry after shares of Universal Music Group tanked due to a deceleration in streaming subscription revenue growth. Matt and Lucas wonder whether this is a crisis or just a blip and offer up ways music streamers should differentiate themselves to make more money and get back on the path of accelerated growth (03:10). Matt finishes the show with a prediction about the ratings for the 2024 Olympics (24:32).

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Host: Matt Belloni

Guest: Lucas Shaw

Producers: Craig Horlbeck and Jessie Lopez

Theme Song: Devon Renaldo

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The 2024 Intellectual Property Draft

Wed, 31 Jul 2024 10:00:00 -0000

Matt is joined by Bloomberg’s Lucas Shaw for the second ever IP Draft! They first revisit their last IP Draft, then draft a whole new team of intellectual properties that they believe will be the future stalwarts in Hollywood.

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Host: Matt Belloni

Guest: Lucas Shaw

Producers: Craig Horlbeck and Jessie Lopez

Theme Song: Devon Renaldo

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‘Deadpool & Wolverine’ and Marketing Disney’s First R-Rated Marvel Movie

Mon, 29 Jul 2024 18:02:00 -0000

Matt is joined by Disney’s chief brand officer and president of marketing, Asad Ayaz, to talk about releasing Disney’s first R-rated Marvel film in ‘Deadpool & Wolverine,’ how that changes the calculus for Disney from a marketing side, and how the third installment of 'Deadpool' made more money than its two predecessors. They also discuss broader topics, including how early you should start marketing a film, deciding what spoilers to leak in the lead-up to a movie, how to approach the MCU’s recent struggles as a film franchise from a marketing standpoint, and much more (02:49). Matt finishes the show with an opening box office prediction for M. Night Shyamalan’s ‘Trap’ (28:02).

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Host: Matt Belloni

Guest: Asad Ayaz

Producers: Craig Horlbeck and Jessie Lopez

Theme Song: Devon Renaldo

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WBD’s Billion-Dollar War on the NBA

Fri, 26 Jul 2024 23:55:00 -0000

Matt is joined by Bloomberg’s Lucas Shaw to discuss Warner Bros. Discovery’s lawsuit against the NBA after the NBA rejected WBD’s matching offer for a package of broadcasting rights. They look at the argument for both sides, and determine who has the best case.

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Host: Matt Belloni

Guest: Lucas Shaw

Producers: Craig Horlbeck and Jessie Lopez

Theme Song: Devon Renaldo

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The High Stakes of Broadcasting the Olympics

Wed, 24 Jul 2024 08:00:00 -0000

Matt is joined by Mark Lazarus, NBCUniversal Media Group chairman, to discuss the business behind broadcasting the Olympics, how these Games will feel different than the 2020 Olympics, what they learned from streaming an NFL playoff game on Peacock, Al Michaels’s AI broadcasting debut, and NBA rights (2:56). Matt finishes the show with an opening weekend box office prediction for ‘Deadpool & Wolverine’ (28:22).

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Host: Matt Belloni

Guest: Mark Lazarus

Producers: Craig Horlbeck and Jessie Lopez

Theme Song: Devon Renaldo

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Is Netflix or YouTube the King in Streaming?

Mon, 22 Jul 2024 19:56:00 -0000

Matt is joined by Bloomberg’s Lucas Shaw to discuss Netflix’s strong second-quarter earnings, and how the company’s strong numbers might weaken in the next few years partially because of their underwhelming advertising revenue. They then ask a larger question: Is the race for streaming now down to two finalists—Netflix and YouTube (2:43)? Matt finishes the show with a prediction for which city will win hosting duties of the 2027 Sundance Film Festival (25:30).

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Host: Matt Belloni

Guest: Lucas Shaw

Producers: Craig Horlbeck and Jessie Lopez

Theme Song: Devon Renaldo

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Warner's M&A Options and an NBA Rights Scoop

Fri, 19 Jul 2024 22:51:00 -0000

Matt is joined by Jessica Reif Ehrlich, a senior media and entertainment analyst at BofA Securities, to discuss the floundering Warner Bros. Discovery and propose several drastic changes she believes are necessary to save the company (02:35). Then, The Ringer’s Bill Simmons joins the show with a new angle on the looming NBA rights deal involving Amazon and Warner Bros. Discovery (22:14). Finally, Matt makes an opening weekend box office prediction for ‘Twisters’ (32:15).

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Host: Matt Belloni

Guests: Jessica Reif Ehrlich and Bill Simmons

Producers: Craig Horlbeck and Jessie Lopez

Theme Song: Devon Renaldo

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The 'Star Wars' Ratings Problem and What To Do Next

Wed, 17 Jul 2024 22:32:00 -0000

Matt is joined by Luminate’s director of business development, Jimmy Doyle, to discuss the state of the 'Star Wars' franchise, its lack of theatrical movies, and what the troubling TV ratings signal for the brand. They talk about the 'Star Wars' properties that are working, the upcoming Mandalorian movie, and whether Disney should ultimately license its content to Netflix (02:43). In light of the recent Emmy nominations, Matt finishes the show with his prediction for Best Drama Series, Best Comedy Series, and Best Limited Series (23:13).

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Host: Matt Belloni

Guest: Jimmy Doyle

Producers: Craig Horlbeck and Jessie Lopez

Theme Song: Devon Renaldo

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Does Hollywood Need Deregulation?

Mon, 15 Jul 2024 21:37:00 -0000

Matt is joined by Bloomberg’s Lucas Shaw to discuss Warner Bros. Discovery CEO David Zaslav’s latest comments from the Sun Valley conference, during which he advocated for less regulation in Hollywood. They unpack his statement and speculate how the election results might affect the regulatory environment for media companies, which companies would benefit the most from M&A possibilities, and why a company like Netflix might not mind consolidation (03:07). We finish the show with a mid-year check-in of the 2024 Box Office Draft (23:16).

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Host: Matt Belloni

Guest: Lucas Shaw

Producers: Craig Horlbeck and Jessie Lopez

Theme Song: Devon Renaldo

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Betting on Theaters, Embracing Tech, and ‘Wicked’ With Director Jon M. Chu

Thu, 11 Jul 2024 08:00:00 -0000

Matt is joined by director Jon M. Chu to discuss how he made it in Hollywood, his career-altering move to pass on Netflix and bet on movie theaters with ‘Crazy Rich Asians,’ balancing art and commerce, making films with AI, his upcoming film ‘Wicked,' and much more from his new book, ‘Viewfinder: A Memoir of Seeing and Being Seen’ (02:34). Matt finishes the show with an opening weekend box office prediction for the Scarlett Johansson and Channing Tatum film, ‘Fly Me To The Moon’ (25:24).

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Host: Matt Belloni

Guest: Jon. M Chu

Producers: Craig Horlbeck and Jessie Lopez

Theme Song: Devon Renaldo

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Burning Questions About the Future of Paramount

Tue, 09 Jul 2024 19:25:00 -0000

Matt is joined by Bloomberg’s Lucas Shaw to look at what the future holds for Paramount now that David Ellison has purchased the legacy media company from Shari Redstone. They discuss what will happen to Paramount's assets, including CBS, Pluto, Paramount+, as well as their movie strategy, and ultimately if a new, young, tech-focused CEO can not only keep Paramount alive, but help it flourish (02:22). Matt finishes the show with a prediction about the upcoming criminal trial of Alec Baldwin in the ‘Rust’ case (25:57).

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Host: Matt Belloni

Guest: Lucas Shaw

Producers: Craig Horlbeck and Jessie Lopez

Theme Song: Devon Renaldo

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Skydance’s David Ellison on His Plans for Paramount

Mon, 08 Jul 2024 22:43:00 -0000

Matt is joined by Skydance CEO David Ellison and RedBird Capital's Gerry Cardinale to discuss Ellison’s acquisition of Shari Redstone’s family company and the merger of Paramount Global with Skydance Media. David and Gerry outline what the future holds for Paramount as a media company, including what they intend to do with Paramount+, their thoughts on the theatrical business, and how tech will help shape the future of storytelling (03:11). Matt finishes the show with a prediction about the 2024 Summer Olympics (32:40).

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Host: Matt Belloni

Guests: David Ellison and Gerry Cardinale

Producers: Craig Horlbeck and Jessie Lopez

Theme Song: Devon Renaldo

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The NFL's $15B Sunday Ticket Problem

Wed, 03 Jul 2024 13:00:00 -0000

Matt is joined by Puck’s John Ourand to break down the multibillion-dollar NFL ‘Sunday Ticket’ lawsuit when a jury in the U.S. District Court ordered the NFL to pay more than $4.7 billion in damages after the league violated antitrust laws in distributing out-of-market Sunday afternoon games on a premium subscription service, DIRECTV. John explains how this bill could actually balloon to nearly $15 billion under antitrust law, how this will impact Sunday Ticket’s new distributor, YouTube, and whether this could impact the greater sports media rights landscape (03:30). Matt finishes the show with an opening weekend box office prediction for ‘Despicable Me 4’ (24:26).

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Host: Matt Belloni

Guest: John Ourand

Producers: Craig Horlbeck and Jessie Lopez

Theme Song: Devon Renaldo

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The Biggest Over- and Underreactions of the First Half of 2024

Mon, 01 Jul 2024 22:04:00 -0000

Matt is joined by Bloomberg’s Lucas Shaw to look back on the first half of 2024 and highlight the stories they believe were most over- and undercovered, including the horror movie genre, new Disney, Fox, and Warner Bros. Discovery bundle Venu, the ScarJo OpenAI fight, Pat McAfee and Norby Williamson, UMG vs. TikTok, and more.

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Host: Matt Belloni

Guest: Lucas Shaw

Producers: Craig Horlbeck and Jessie Lopez

Theme Song: Devon Renaldo

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Will the Debate Debacle Revive TV News?

Fri, 28 Jun 2024 21:53:00 -0000

Matt is joined by journalist, podcast host, and cofounder of Semafor, Ben Smith, to discuss how last night's dispiriting debate will affect CNN and the TV news landscape as we move towards the 2024 election. Will the debate revive CNN and give it the story it's been looking for? They also take a look at the broader state of TV news as we exit the cable news era and wonder how many of these waning news networks can survive in the streaming era (03:12). Matt finishes the show with an opening weekend box office prediction for ‘A Quiet Place: Day One’ (26:00).

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Host: Matt Belloni

Guest: Ben Smith

Producers: Craig Horlbeck and Jessie Lopez

Theme Song: Devon Renaldo

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How Much Kevin Costner Stands to Win or Lose on ‘Horizon’

Wed, 26 Jun 2024 16:00:00 -0000

Matt is joined by longtime producer Mark Gill to break down the finances of Kevin Costner’s ‘Horizon: An American Saga—Chapter 1.’ He explains how indie films of this scope and scale are financed, how much the movie needs to make for everyone to survive, and who has the most to lose. They also discuss another ambitious self-financed project, Francis Ford Coppola’s ‘Megalopolis’ (02:35). Matt finishes the show with an opening weekend box office prediction for ‘Horizon: An American Saga—Chapter 1’ (25:50).

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Host: Matt Belloni

Guest: Mark Gill

Producers: Craig Horlbeck and Jessie Lopez

Theme Song: Devon Renaldo

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Is Hollywood Really That Effed Up?

Mon, 24 Jun 2024 23:25:00 -0000

Matt is joined by Bloomberg’s Lucas Shaw to discuss if Hollywood is struggling as much as the media says it is. They run through a slew of issues, including traditional Hollywood’s battle with YouTube and TikTok, whether young people should abandon careers in TV and film and instead focus on social media, why Hollywood guilds and studios aren't going after AI together while major music labels are suing AI companies, the efficacy of the strikes, and the current state of Disney (02:40). Matt finishes the show with a prediction about Stephen A. Smith’s future employment (24:54).

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Host: Matt Belloni

Guest: Lucas Shaw

Producers: Craig Horlbeck and Jessie Lopez

Theme Song: Devon Renaldo

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Hollywood’s Big Big Tech Problem

Thu, 20 Jun 2024 08:00:00 -0000

Matt is joined by Scott Galloway, a professor of marketing at the NYU Stern School of Business, author, and podcast host, to look back on the fallout and consequences of the writers strike and discuss how the studios and guilds should be handling the AI infiltration in the entertainment industry. They also discuss the state of the theatrical business, Hollywood’s aging executives, and how the government is handling big tech (01:51). Matt finishes the show with an opening weekend box office prediction for the upcoming film ‘The Bikeriders’ (30:25).

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Host: Matt Belloni

Guest: Scott Galloway

Producers: Craig Horlbeck and Jessie Lopez

Theme Song: Devon Renaldo

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Sony Bought a Movie Theatre Chain. Plus, Pixar’s Big Comeback

Tue, 18 Jun 2024 01:40:00 -0000

Matt is joined by Bloomberg’s Lucas Shaw to discuss Sony Pictures' acquisition of the Alamo Drafthouse movie theater chain, what this move says about Sony’s interest in theatrical moviegoing, whether this experiment was ultimately a smart move, and whether any other studios or streamers should be in the theater-buying business (02:54). Matt finishes the show with a prediction about the future of casting animated movies (24:33).

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Host: Matt Belloni

Guest: Lucas Shaw

Producers: Craig Horlbeck and Jessie Lopez

Theme Song: Devon Renaldo

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Jon Stewart on AI Fears, Election Plans, and ‘Daily Show’ End Date

Fri, 14 Jun 2024 16:00:00 -0000

Matt is back with the second half of his conversation with Jon Stewart to discuss how Hollywood should handle the AI issue, how Viacom let John Oliver go to HBO, whom Stewart consulted before agreeing to come back to the show, whether Stewart might stay beyond his planned exit from ‘The Daily Show’ in November, and the media he is consuming these days (01:22).

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Host: Matt Belloni

Guest: Jon Stewart

Producers: Craig Horlbeck and Jessie Lopez

Theme Song: Devon Renaldo

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Jon Stewart Talks Apple Split, Corporate Constraints, and Media’s Regression

Thu, 13 Jun 2024 16:00:00 -0000

Matt is joined by Jon Stewart to discuss his return to ‘The Daily Show,’ why he and Apple were not a great fit, and how the media, political, and comedy landscape has changed in the nine years since he left ‘The Daily Show’ (02:38). Matt finishes the show with an opening weekend box office prediction for the newest Pixar film, ‘Inside Out 2’ (26:44).

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Host: Matt Belloni

Guest: Jon Stewart

Producers: Craig Horlbeck and Jessie Lopez

Theme Song: Devon Renaldo

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Paramount-Skydance Is Dead. What Now?

Wed, 12 Jun 2024 20:09:00 -0000

Matt and Lightshed media analyst Rich Greenfield react to Shari Redstone calling off the Paramount-Skydance deal at the eleventh hour after a sale seemed imminent. They discuss why Shari killed the deal, how one man is potentially responsible for convincing Shari to back out, what’s next for Paramount Global, and much more (03:08). Matt finishes the show with an opening weekend box office prediction for the newest Pixar film, ‘Inside Out 2’ (30:44).

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Host: Matt Belloni

Guest: Rich Greenfield

Producers: Craig Horlbeck and Jessie Lopez

Theme Song: Devon Renaldo

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Will Smith’s Comeback and the Butts-in-Seats Star Ranking

Tue, 11 Jun 2024 00:55:00 -0000

Matt is joined by Bloomberg’s Lucas Shaw to discuss Will Smith’s return to box office stardom after the success of ‘Bad Boys: Ride or Die’ and if this marks the official return for Will Smith as one of Hollywood's most dependable theatrical movie stars. They then discuss which movie stars can reliably open an original movie in theaters, and whether directors are more bankable than actors (03:01). Matt finishes the show with a prediction about the NBA Finals ratings (25:18).

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Host: Matt Belloni

Guest: Lucas Shaw

Producers: Craig Horlbeck and Jessie Lopez

Theme Song: Devon Renaldo

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The Science of Green-Lighting Movies

Fri, 07 Jun 2024 18:40:00 -0000

Matt is joined by Joshua Lynn, the president of Piedmont Media Research, to discuss the research studios use to determine what people want out of their movies and how to give it to him. Before the movie is green-lit, studios use research to know if people want a new tornado movie, or a biopic about Robert Oppenheimer, or how Denzel Washington will elevate a project's box office potential (02:43). Matt finishes the show with a prediction about Netflix’s stock price (25:32).

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Host: Matt Belloni

Guest: Joshua Lynn

Producers: Craig Horlbeck and Jessie Lopez

Theme Song: Devon Renaldo

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Is Netflix Fumbling Ads?

Wed, 05 Jun 2024 08:00:00 -0000

Matt is joined by ad industry insider Michael Kassan to discuss the newest frontier in streaming: advertising! Michael and Matt take a look specifically at Netflix and give their report card on the streamer's initial push into the ad space. They also look more broadly at the streaming ad ecosystem and wonder whether the influx of live events as well as the Great Rebundling of services will help kick-start the ad market (03:04). Matt finishes the show with an opening-weekend box office prediction for the fourth installment in the 'Bad Boys' franchise, 'Bad Boys: Ride or Die' (26:00).

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Host: Matt Belloni

Guest: Michael Kassan

Producers: Craig Horlbeck and Jessie Lopez

Theme Song: Devon Renaldo

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The 2024 Summer Concert Tour Draft

Mon, 03 Jun 2024 08:00:00 -0000

Matt is joined by Bloomberg’s Lucas Shaw for the first summer concert tour draft (02:34). They each draft four musical acts that will be touring this summer, which will be judged based on the gross totals for the tours. Similar to the box office draft, Matt and Lucas will each give the other an opposing tour as well. To finish off the show, Matt welcomes back producer Craig from his trip and makes a prediction on which bid will win over Shari Redstone for Paramount (23:50).

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Host: Matt Belloni

Guest: Lucas Shaw

Producers: Craig Horlbeck and Jessie Lopez

Theme Song: Devon Renaldo

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TV Viewers Are Getting Old. Do Advertisers Care?

Fri, 31 May 2024 19:21:00 -0000

Matt is joined by Wall Street Journal reporter Isabella Simonetti to discuss an article she wrote that focuses on the older ages of television viewers and how it has affected advertisers (03:35). They go through how the pitches to ad buyers have shifted, the age gap between people who consume traditional linear TV and streaming, whether age demographics are still used, the growing acceptance of older casts on TV, and whether linear TV is beginning to age out. Matt finishes the show with a prediction about the distribution of 'The Apprentice,' which highlights Donald Trump’s rise during his business career (19:50).

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Host: Matt Belloni

Guest: Isabella Simonetti

Producer: Jessie Lopez

Theme Song: Devon Renaldo

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The Memorial Day Box Office Meltdown

Tue, 28 May 2024 22:30:00 -0000

Matt is joined by Bloomberg’s Lucas Shaw to discuss the terrible Memorial Day box office weekend (02:36). They discuss the potential fallout from the disastrous weekend and the repercussions of May’s disappointing box office results, as well as debate whether studios will look to release fewer movies. Then, Matt finishes off the show with a prediction about Warner Bros. Discovery's NBA broadcasting rights (25:24).

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Host: Matt Belloni

Guest: Lucas Shaw

Producer: Jessie Lopez

Theme Song: Devon Renaldo

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Everyone Hates Ticketmaster, but Is It a Monopoly?

Fri, 24 May 2024 20:32:00 -0000

Matt is joined by Puck’s Eriq Gardner to discuss the U.S. government's monopoly lawsuit against Ticketmaster and Live Nation (02:58). They briefly go through the history of the Ticketmaster–Live Nation merger, what lead to the eventual lawsuit, why concert prices won’t go down even if the two companies split, whether this lawsuit is just a PR attack against Ticketmaster, what impact this could have on the secondary markets, what a broken up Ticketmaster–Live Nation would look like, and more. Matt finishes the show with a prediction for this weekend’s holiday box office (27:00).

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Host: Matt Belloni

Guest: Eriq Gardner

Producer: Jessie Lopez

Theme Song: Devon Renaldo

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Scarlett Johansson Vs. OpenAI: Does She Have a Case?

Wed, 22 May 2024 08:00:00 -0000

Matt is joined by Greenberg Glusker partner and entertainment litigator Aaron Moss to discuss the situation between Scarlett Johansson and OpenAI (03:38). They discuss what rights were possibly implicated, talk about the different routes she can take if she decides to file a lawsuit, and compare previous similar cases to determine if she could win. Matt finishes the show by making a prediction on the future of the CW Network (26:01).

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Host: Matt Belloni

Guest: Aaron Moss

Producer: Jessie Lopez

Theme Song: Devon Renaldo

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A War Is Coming Over Hollywood Pay

Mon, 20 May 2024 22:05:00 -0000

Matt is joined by Bloomberg’s Lucas Shaw to discuss why Netflix, Apple, and other streaming platforms are looking to change how they pay actors (03:25). After years of paying big up-front checks with no back end, streamers are looking to balance out their ballooning budgets by better aligning pay with performance. They debate why this change is happening now, how advertisements on these platforms could bring about more transparency, and whether this new model could actually work. Matt finishes the show with predictions on Kevin Costner’s ‘Horizon: An American Saga’ and Francis Ford Coppola’s ‘Megalopolis’ (24:36).

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Email us your thoughts! thetown@spotify.com

Host: Matt Belloni

Guest: Lucas Shaw

Producer: Jessie Lopez

Theme Song: Devon Renaldo

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NFL on Netflix, and Big Tech’s TV Upfronts Takeover

Thu, 16 May 2024 20:00:00 -0000

Matt is joined by media analyst Rich Greenfield to give out their biggest takeaways from the TV up-fronts, including Netlifx’s three-year deal with the NFL, YouTube’s impressive viewership data, Amazon’s slew of splashy announcements, and why this year might mark a turning point in media (02:20). Matt finishes the show with a discussion of the newest ‘Wicked’ trailer and the future of two-part movies (24:55).

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Host: Matt Belloni

Guest: Rich Greenfield

Producers: Craig Horlbeck and Jessie Lopez

Theme Song: Devon Renaldo

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Latinos See More Movies Than Anyone. Why Is Hollywood Ignoring Them?

Wed, 15 May 2024 20:11:00 -0000

Matt is joined by Camilo Becdach, a partner at McKinsey, to discuss how improving on-and off-screen representation of Latinos could generate billions of dollars in new revenue for the film industry. Latinos are the most avid filmgoers per capita in the United States, and Camilo argues that Hollywood is leaving $12-18 billion on the table every year by underrepresenting Latinos on and behind the screen. He also outlines the barriers at the executive level confronting Latinos in entertainment, and what the industry can do to fix this (02:39). Matt finishes the show with an opening-weekend box office prediction on the John Krasinski–directed animated film ‘IF,’ starring Ryan Reynolds (22:42).

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Host: Matt Belloni

Guest: Camilo Becdach

Producers: Craig Horlbeck and Jessie Lopez

Theme Song: Devon Renaldo

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Disney+ and Max Have Bundled, Who’s Next?

Mon, 13 May 2024 10:00:00 -0000

Matt is joined by Bloomberg’s Lucas Shaw to discuss the new bundle starting this summer that will combine Disney+, Hulu, and Max. They pick winners and losers of the deal, and wonder who might be the next to join in on the Great Re-Bundling (02:50). Matt finishes with a prediction about Netflix’s potential involvement with the NFL (25:01).

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Host: Matt Belloni

Guest: Lucas Shaw

Producers: Craig Horlbeck and Jessie Lopez

Theme Song: Devon Renaldo

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Are Producers in Hollywood Nearing Extinction?

Thu, 09 May 2024 08:00:00 -0000

Matt is joined by longtime producers Cathy Schulman and Lorenzo di Bonaventura to discuss the devaluation of producers in Hollywood, and their push for better rights under their new collective, Producers United. They outline why producers don’t have it as good as most might think, what a producer actually does, how they're getting squeezed financially, whether they will still be around in the future, and how what a producer does impacts the television and movies we all watch and enjoy. Matt finishes the show with an opening-weekend box office prediction for the new film ‘Kingdom of the Planet of the Apes.’

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Host: Matt Belloni

Guest: Cathy Schulman and Lorenzo di Bonaventura

Producers: Craig Horlbeck and Jessie Lopez

Theme Song: Devon Renaldo

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The Year of Peacock?

Wed, 08 May 2024 10:00:00 -0000

Matt is joined by the president of Peacock, Kelly Campbell, to discuss Peacock’s unique place in the streaming universe, how live sports supercharged its growth, and how it plans to improve its coverage of the Olympics as their exclusive digital home. They also discuss how gaining NBA rights could affect Peacock’s content output and whether a joint venture with Paramount Plus or Max could ever work. Matt finishes the show with a prediction about ESPN’s over-the-top service after Disney’s latest earnings call.

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Host: Matt Belloni

Guest: Kelly Campbell

Producers: Craig Horlbeck and Jessie Lopez

Theme Song: Devon Renaldo

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‘The Fall Guy’ Swung and Missed … Should We Panic?

Mon, 06 May 2024 21:34:00 -0000

Matt is joined by Bloomberg’s Lucas Shaw to investigate the disappointing opening weekend for ‘The Fall Guy’ to figure out why this movie underperformed, and what lessons Hollywood can take from it. Questions explored: Should the movie be considered a flop? Was it marketed correctly? Is Ryan Gosling a bankable movie star? Does the disappointment of this original-ish movie mark a major setback for the summer box office and the movie industry at large? Later, Matt finishes the show with a prediction about how the Tom Brady roast will fare on Netflix.

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Host: Matt Belloni

Guest: Lucas Shaw

Producers: Craig Horlbeck and Jessie Lopez

Theme Song: Devon Renaldo

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The 2024 Summer Blockbuster Confidence Scale

Fri, 03 May 2024 18:39:00 -0000

It’s May, which means it is officially summer blockbuster season. Matt welcomes back Puck’s Scott Mendelson to run through each of the most highly anticipated blockbusters of the summer, then assign their confidence levels for each movie’s likelihood of exceeding expectations at the box office.

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Host: Matt Belloni

Guest: Scott Mendelson

Producers: Craig Horlbeck and Jessie Lopez

Theme Song: Devon Renaldo

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The Fight for the Last NBA Rights With Bill Simmons

Wed, 01 May 2024 20:32:00 -0000

Matt is joined by The Ringer’s Bill Simmons to discuss the ongoing battle for the next round of NBA media rights. The latest reports outline a potential deal in place with ESPN/ABC and Amazon for the next decade, leaving open a coveted third spot for the highest bidder. Matt and Bill discuss who they believe will nab the third package and outline what the NBA could look like on streaming and broadcast in the future.

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Host: Matt Belloni

Guest: Bill Simmons

Producers: Craig Horlbeck and Jessie Lopez

Theme Song: Devon Renaldo

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A CEO Firing, and the Chaos at Paramount

Tue, 30 Apr 2024 23:03:00 -0000

Matt is joined by Lucas Shaw to discuss the ousting of Paramount Global CEO Bob Bakish, why it happened now, and whether it affects a potential deal moving forward. They then update their predictions in the Skydance, vs. Apollo deal, and wonder what would happen to Paramount Global and its new three-headed CEO triumvirate if there is no deal. Matt finishes the show with an opening weekend box office prediction for the upcoming action movie ‘Fall Guy.'

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Host: Matt Belloni

Guest: Lucas Shaw

Producers: Craig Horlbeck and Jessie Lopez

Theme Song: Devon Renaldo

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The Rise of Tubi and If “Free” Is Really the Future of Entertainment

Mon, 29 Apr 2024 22:48:00 -0000

Matt is joined by Tubi CEO Anjali Sud to discuss the rapid growth of free, ad-supported content, competing with YouTube and social media, how young people want to consume content, whether Tubi can outlast the free ad-supported arms of major steamers, and whether this business is actually sustainable. Matt finishes the show with a prediction on the future of TNT's 'Inside the NBA.'

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Host: Matt Belloni

Guest: Anjali Sud

Producers: Craig Horlbeck and Jessie Lopez

Theme Song: Devon Renaldo

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Aaron Sorkin, Live From D.C.

Fri, 26 Apr 2024 04:37:00 -0000

In a special live episode, Matt and Puck colleague Peter Hamby are joined by screenwriter, playwright, and film director Aaron Sorkin to discuss the current state of Hollywood, the impact of AI on writers, politics, why he fired his agents, and much more.

For a 20 percent discount on Matt’s Hollywood insider newsletter, ‘What I’m Hearing ...,’ click here.

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Host: Matt Belloni

Guest: Aaron Sorkin and Peter Hamby

Producers: Craig Horlbeck and Jessie Lopez

Theme Song: Devon Renaldo

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Which Bidder Is Best for Paramount?

Wed, 24 Apr 2024 10:00:00 -0000

Matt is joined by author and Puck writer Bill Cohan to break down the latest in the Paramount bidding war. They discuss Sony’s interest in joining Apollo Global Management’s bid for Paramount and how it differs from David Ellison's Skydance Media bid. They also explore how each bid would affect Paramount’s stockholders, which bid Shari Redstone prefers, and more. Matt finishes the show with an opening weekend box office prediction for ‘Challengers.’

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Host: Matt Belloni

Guest: Bill Cohan

Producers: Craig Horlbeck and Jessie Lopez

Theme Song: Devon Renaldo

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Netflix’s Backtrack on Transparency

Mon, 22 Apr 2024 22:55:00 -0000

Matt is joined by Bloomberg’s Lucas Shaw to discuss Netflix’s pivot away from reporting subscriber growth and average revenue per user every quarter. The two question why Netflix is doing this and how this step back from transparency will affect other streaming services and the greater streaming landscape. Matt finishes the show with a prediction about primetime television.

For a 20 percent discount on Matt’s Hollywood insider newsletter, ‘What I’m Hearing ...,’ click here.

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Host: Matt Belloni

Guest: Lucas Shaw

Producers: Craig Horlbeck and Jessie Lopez

Theme Song: Devon Renaldo

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Taylor Swift’s Questionable Return to TikTok

Thu, 18 Apr 2024 16:00:00 -0000

Matt is joined by Nathan Hubbard—former CEO of Ticketmaster, current CEO of Firebird Music and Ringer podcaster—to discuss the return of Taylor Swift’s music to TikTok despite distributing partner Universal Music Group's boycott of the platform. They debate whether or not Taylor Swift should allow her music to reap the benefits of TikTok while other artists suffer. Matt finishes the show with an opening weekend box office prediction on the upcoming horror film ‘Abigail.’

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Host: Matt Belloni

Guest: Nathan Hubbard

Producers: Craig Horlbeck and Jessie Lopez

Theme Song: Devon Renaldo

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Hollywood’s Struggle to Reinvent Itself

Wed, 17 Apr 2024 19:09:00 -0000

Matt is joined by John Peters, Accenture’s global lead for media and entertainment, to look at which Hollywood studios are struggling to keep up with the wants of consumers and which are adapting to the times. John outlines why studios that make radical decisions are best positioned to succeed, and whether social media is the entertainment industry's biggest competitor. Matt finishes the show with a prediction about Netlfix’s Q1 earnings

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Host: Matt Belloni

Guest: John Peters

Producers: Craig Horlbeck and Jessie Lopez

Theme Song: Devon Renaldo

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The Best and Worst Media Mergers of the 21st Century

Mon, 15 Apr 2024 20:30:00 -0000

Matt is joined by Bloomberg’s Lucas Shaw to look back at the 21st century's biggest media and entertainment mergers and acquisitions, discuss how many of them actually worked, and anoint their best and worst deals of the century. They then look ahead to the potential deal between Paramount Global and David Ellison’s Skydance Media. Matt finishes the show with a prediction about the future of Jason and Travis Kelce’s podcast, ‘New Heights.’

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Host: Matt Belloni

Guest: Lucas Shaw

Producers: Craig Horlbeck and Jessie Lopez

Theme Song: Devon Renaldo

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Can IMAX Save Movie Theaters?

Thu, 11 Apr 2024 17:30:00 -0000

Matt is joined by IMAX CEO Rich Gelfond to discuss the complicated state of movie theaters, and the growing importance of premium large-format screens like IMAX. Rich reveals just how much certain movies have benefitted from IMAX sales, which movies are getting the most IMAX screens this spring and summer, and what to do about the glut of empty multiplexes across the country. Matt finishes the show with an opening-weekend box office prediction for Alex Garland’s newest film, ‘Civil War.'

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Host: Matt Belloni

Guest: Rich Gelfond

Producers: Craig Horlbeck and Jessie Lopez

Theme Song: Devon Renaldo

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Hollywood vs. Big Tech in the Age of Consolidation

Wed, 10 Apr 2024 10:00:00 -0000

Matt Belloni is joined by Matt Stoller, research director for the American Economic Liberties Project and writer of the monopoly-focused newsletter 'Big,' to discuss the growing trend of consolidation in Hollywood and how big tech changed the way the entertainment industry operates. They talk through the downsides of consolidation in media, the difference between Netflix and other tech companies like Apple and Amazon, a potential Warner Bros. Discovery merger, and the government's role in all of this.

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Host: Matt Belloni

Guest: Matt Stoller

Producers: Craig Horlbeck and Jessie Lopez

Theme Song: Devon Renaldo

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Early Winners and Losers of 2024

Mon, 08 Apr 2024 20:28:00 -0000

Matt is joined by Bloomberg’s Lucas Shaw to recap Hollywood’s slow start to the year and reveal their under-the-radar winners and losers of 2024 so far. Matt finishes the show by revealing the championship matchup in the Hollywood Power Bracket and predicting who will take home the trophy.

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Host: Matt Belloni

Guest: Lucas Shaw

Producers: Craig Horlbeck and Jessie Lopez

Theme Song: Devon Renaldo

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Why Documentaries Are Better and Worse Than Ever With Sheila Nevins

Thu, 04 Apr 2024 22:11:00 -0000

Matt is joined by Sheila Nevins, producer and former president of HBO Documentary Films, to discuss why she isn't bothered by the complicated state of documentaries. Thanks to streaming, documentaries are more popular than ever, reaching more households and finding consistent relevance in pop culture like never before. Sheila gives her take on the perception that quality filmmaking has ceded its path to quantity in the streaming age, our cultural obsession with murder and crime, and whether we need to change the way we think about documentary films. Matt finishes the show with a box office opening weekend prediction for ‘The First Omen’ and ‘Monkey Man’.

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Host: Matt Belloni

Guest: Sheila Nevins

Producers: Craig Horlbeck and Jessie Lopez

Theme Song: Devon Renaldo

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A WWE Business Smackdown With Nick Khan

Wed, 03 Apr 2024 18:50:00 -0000

Matt is joined by WWE president Nick Khan to discuss the WWE’s $5 billion deal with Netflix, making the streaming giant the exclusive new home to WWE’s 'Raw' starting in January 2025. Nick talks about how the deal came together, the creative vision in a post–Vince McMahon world, the Rock’s return to the ring, what this deal means for the future of sports media, where he expects the brand to be in three to five years, the looming NBA rights deal, and much more.

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Host: Matt Belloni

Guest: Nick Khan

Producer: Craig Horlbeck and Jessie Lopez

Theme Song: Devon Renaldo

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The Disney Proxy War: Does Peltz Have a Shot Against Iger?

Mon, 01 Apr 2024 22:27:00 -0000

Matt is joined by Bloomberg’s Lucas Shaw to discuss what’s at stake in Disney’s proxy battle with billionaire corporate raider Nelson Peltz. With the annual shareholder meeting coming up this week, they dive into the war Peltz has waged against Disney and CEO Bob Iger, whether his case has any merit, and whether he could actually win. Matt finishes the show with a prediction about how the box office will fare in Q2.

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Host: Matt Belloni

Guest: Lucas Shaw

Producer: Craig Horlbeck and Jessie Lopez

Theme Song: Devon Renaldo

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Inside TMZ’s Cozy Relationship With Hollywood

Fri, 29 Mar 2024 22:51:00 -0000

Matt is joined by Van Lathan to discuss the complicated and nuanced relationship between TMZ and Hollywood. As a former TMZ employee, Van walks us through how the sausage is made at TMZ and outlines its aggressive reporting style, how it pays its sources, and how, despite its often negative perception, the mainstream media has become more like TMZ, not the other way around.

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Host: Matt Belloni

Guest: Van Lathan

Producers: Craig Horlbeck and Jessie Lopez

Theme Song: Devon Renaldo

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The Battle for Attention: Streaming Vs. Social

Mon, 25 Mar 2024 20:54:00 -0000

Matt is joined by Bloomberg’s Lucas Shaw to discuss the battle for time in the attention economy of streaming and social media. They parse through the latest data on how people spend their time and wonder whether streaming services are in danger of losing relevance with young millennials and Gen Z. They talk about whether legacy studios and streamers are worried about apps like TikTok and how they are working to compete with them. Matt finishes the show with a prediction about Season 3 of 'Euphoria.'

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Host: Matt Belloni

Guest: Lucas Shaw

Producers: Craig Horlbeck and Jessie Lopez

Theme Song: Devon Renaldo

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How AI Is Already Transforming Moviemaking

Thu, 21 Mar 2024 20:52:00 -0000

Matt is joined by Matt Panousis, the COO and cofounder of VFX and AI technology company MARZ, to discuss how AI is currently being implemented in Hollywood. Matt outlines the recent innovations and their impacts on VFX, dubbing, postproduction, digital makeup, and much more. Matt finishes the show with a box office prediction about the opening weekend of ‘Ghostbusters: Frozen Empire.’

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Host: Matt Belloni

Guest: Matt Panousis

Producers: Craig Horlbeck and Jessie Lopez

Theme Song: Devon Renaldo

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Lemon, Tucker, and the Cable News Star Turned Influencer

Wed, 20 Mar 2024 20:30:00 -0000

Matt is joined by Puck’s Dylan Byers to check in on the world of television news and anchors like Don Lemon and Tucker Carlson exiting their perches and starting new careers on social media platforms like Twitter/X. They discuss whether these cable TV stars can retain their cachet and relevance, whether they can make as much money (or more), and whether the life after TV business model is sustainable. Matt finishes the show with a prediction about men vs. women's March Madness ratings.

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Host: Matt Belloni

Guest: Dylan Byers

Producer: Craig Horlbeck and Jessie Lopez

Theme Song: Devon Renaldo

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The Juice List: The Most Powerful People in Hollywood

Mon, 18 Mar 2024 21:50:00 -0000

Matt is joined by Bloomberg’s Lucas Shaw to craft The Town’s first ever Hollywood Power List: their definitive (and subjective!) ranking of who has the most “juice” a.k.a. the most influential figures in the entertainment business. Matt and Lucas debate who deserves to be in the top 10, who doesn’t, whether an actor will break the top 10, and who currently deserves the coveted top spot.

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Host: Matt Belloni

Guest: Lucas Shaw

Producer: Craig Horlbeck and Jessie Lopez

Theme Song: Devon Renaldo

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‘The Holdovers’ Plagiarism Claim and How to Protect Your Script

Fri, 15 Mar 2024 20:52:00 -0000

Matt is joined by Jeremiah Reynolds, partner at Eisner LLP and copyright law expert, to untangle the recent plagiarism accusation by screenwriter Simon Stephenson over Alexander Payne’s ‘The Holdovers,’ then outline whether or not this case has merit. Matt and Jeremiah discuss famous past examples of copyright infringement, whether the WGA can help with plagiarism, and what a writer can do if they feel their idea is being stolen. Matt finishes the show with a prediction about the films that will premiere at South by Southwest.

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Host: Matt Belloni

Guest: Jeremiah Reynolds

Producers: Craig Horlbeck and Jessie Lopez

Theme Song: Devon Renaldo

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Inside Netflix’s Calculated Sports Strategy

Thu, 14 Mar 2024 23:26:00 -0000

Matt is joined by Julia Alexander from Puck and Parrot Analytics to discuss what is and isn’t working in Netflix’s foray into live sports and sports-adjacent programming, and they outline how Netflix is experimenting to make a potential bid on live rights for a major sport. She reveals some data around Netflix viewership, explains why the sports documentary market is oversaturated, and outlines the importance of live sports for Netflix’s bottom line. Matt finishes the show with a prediction on the opening weekend box office for the new Mark Wahlberg film ‘Arthur the King.’

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Host: Matt Belloni

Guest: Julia Alexander

Producers: Craig Horlbeck and Jessie Lopez

Theme Song: Devon Renaldo

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Oscar Winners and Losers and the Updated Movie Studio Power Rankings

Tue, 12 Mar 2024 01:45:00 -0000

Matt is joined by Bloomberg’s Lucas Shaw to discuss the various winners and losers from the Academy Awards, including Universal Studios, film chief Donna Langley, Christopher Nolan, and Disney's Searchlight Pictures as winners and Apple and Netflix as losers. Now, with awards season officially in the books, Matt and Lucas create their new movie studio power rankings.

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Host: Matt Belloni

Guest: Lucas Shaw

Producer: Craig Horlbeck and Jessie Lopez

Theme Song: Devon Renaldo

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Insider Tips to Predict the Oscar Winners

Thu, 07 Mar 2024 17:00:00 -0000

Matt is joined by Mosaic talent manager and Oscar enthusiast Michael Lasker to parse through the awards season chatter to find a gambling edge on the Academy Awards. Matt and Michael discuss whether anyone has a shot at defeating 'Oppenheimer,' Emma Stone vs. Lily Gladstone, the tight screenplay races, and whether history still plays a role in who wins. Matt finishes the show with a prediction about the opening weekend box office numbers for 'Kung Fu Panda 4.'

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Host: Matt Belloni

Guest: Michael Lasker

Producers: Craig Horlbeck and Jessie Lopez

Theme Song: Devon Renaldo

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The Money and Power Behind the Oscars’ Red Carpet

Wed, 06 Mar 2024 11:00:00 -0000

Matt is joined by Puck’s longtime fashion journalist, Lauren Sherman, to discuss the business of the red carpet, the amount of money celebrities can make from high-end luxury brands, and the state of the Oscars as a fashion and brand platform. Lauren tells us which stars have the biggest brand deals, who has broken out this year, and how a stylist can take them to the next level. Matt finishes the show with a prediction about another possible strike in Hollywood, then delivers some gossip about a certain A-list celebrity's attendance at the Oscars.

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Host: Matt Belloni

Guest: Lauren Sherman

Producers: Craig Horlbeck and Jessie Lopez

Theme Song: Devon Renaldo

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New Film Heads and a New Direction for Netflix and Disney

Mon, 04 Mar 2024 20:55:00 -0000

Matt is joined by Bloomberg’s Lucas Shaw to discuss the big changes on the film side of Netflix and Disney, and what these moves signal for each studio. Netflix hired producer Dan Lin as their new head of film, and Disney promoted David Greenbaum as their new head of Disney Live Action and 20th Century Studios. Dramatically fewer movies at Netflix, Disney goes for more original hits, big changes at Netflix and Disney and maybe the kinds of movies that get made. Matt finishes the show with a prediction about the upcoming release of the ‘Taylor Swift: The Era’s Tour’ movie on Disney+.

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Email us your thoughts! thetown@spotify.com

Host: Matt Belloni

Guest: Lucas Shaw

Producers: Craig Horlbeck and Jessie Lopez

Theme Song: Devon Renaldo

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The Awards Season Awards: Which Oscars Campaigns Worked (and Didn’t)

Fri, 01 Mar 2024 22:19:00 -0000

Matt is joined by The New Yorker’s Michael Schulman to parse through the endless campaigns from the 2024 Oscar season and give out their own awards for the best, worst, and everything in between. Some of the awards include Best Campaign Narrative, Biggest Campaign Misfire, Best Stunt, Best Overall Campaign, and Who Won Awards Season.

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Host: Matt Belloni

Guest: Michael Schulman

Producers: Craig Horlbeck and Jessie Lopez

Theme Song: Devon Renaldo

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Will AI Video Replace Hollywood?

Wed, 28 Feb 2024 11:00:00 -0000

Matt is joined by Ben Thompson, the founder of Stratechery, to discuss Open AI’s new text-to-video model Sora and the ensuing Hollywood freakout. Ben explains how Sora works and what effect it could have in the short and long term in the entertainment industry. They discuss which departments will be disrupted the most, how Sora and text-to-video models can be used as a productivity tool, and how the major studios should deal with this new era in technology. Matt finishes the show with an opening weekend box office prediction for 'Dune: Part Two.'

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Host: Matt Belloni

Guest: Ben Thompson

Producers: Craig Horlbeck and Jessie Lopez

Theme Song: Devon Renaldo

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Panic Time for Max and Warner Bros. Discovery?

Mon, 26 Feb 2024 22:28:00 -0000

Matt is joined by Bloomberg’s Lucas Shaw to check in on Warner Bros. Discovery and CEO David Zazlav after a rocky earnings call last week. They discuss the disappointing movie quarter, their murky path to streaming profitability, the state of the MAX brand, whether they will keep their NBA rights, and if it's officially time to pivot on WBD’s business model. Matt finishes the show with a prediction on the Best Actor and Best Actress categories of the Academy Awards.

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Host: Matt Belloni

Guest: Lucas Shaw

Producers: Craig Horlbeck and Jessie Lopez

Theme Song: Devon Renaldo

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The Harsh Data Behind ‘Barbie’ and Taylor Swift’s Success

Thu, 22 Feb 2024 23:58:00 -0000

Matt is joined by Dr. Stacy Smith—the founder of the USC Annenberg Inclusion Initiative—to discuss the state of female representation in Hollywood and how “The Year of the Woman” after major box office hits from ‘Barbie’, Taylor Swift’s ‘The Eras Tour’ and Beyonce’s ‘Renaissance' might not be accurate. They also discuss the state of casting older men and women in Hollywood, the DEI initiatives of major studios, new inclusion standards for the Oscars, and the responsibility of the Academy to bring about change in Hollywood. Matt finishes the show with a prediction on the new Apple sports app.

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Host: Matt Belloni

Guest: Dr. Stacy Smith

Producers: Craig Horlbeck and Jessie Lopez

Theme Song: Devon Renaldo

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Peacock-Paramount+ Merger Rumors, Questions, and What-Ifs

Tue, 20 Feb 2024 23:50:00 -0000

Matt is joined by Bloomberg’s Lucas Shaw to discuss Peacock’s strong start to 2024 and the prospect of a possible joint venture or “commercial partnership” with Paramount+, as reported by The Wall Street Journal late last week. They run through the logistics of a merger, the curious timing of the Journal’s story, the critical role live sports rights play, Warren Buffett's sale of a third of his stake in Paramount Global, and who is most to blame for Paramount's struggles. Matt finishes the show with a prediction about John Oliver’s HBO show, ‘Last Week Tonight.’

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Host: Matt Belloni

Guest: Lucas Shaw

Producers: Craig Horlbeck and Jessie Lopez

Theme Song: Devon Renaldo

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How to Win Best Picture on a Budget, With Neon’s Tom Quinn

Sat, 17 Feb 2024 02:28:00 -0000

Matt is joined by Neon founder and CEO Tom Quinn to talk about the thesis for launching Neon, the difficulty of starting a theatrical distribution company centered around adult-oriented movies in 2017, how they are able to compete financially with other major studios’ Oscar campaigns, the business model behind a movie like ‘Anatomy of a Fall,’ what they learned from ‘Parasite,’ what he deems a success in independent film, and more. Matt finishes the show with a prediction about the future of the ‘True Detective’ franchise.

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Host: Matt Belloni

Guest: Tom Quinn

Producer: Craig Horlbeck and Jessie Lopez

Theme Song: Devon Renaldo

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Hopeful or Hopeless? Takeaways From 2024's Bleak Box Office Beginning

Thu, 15 Feb 2024 00:06:00 -0000

Matt is joined by box office columnist and Puck contributor Scott Mendelson to discuss the historically bleak start to the year at the box office, filled with few tentpole releases and bombs from movies like ‘Argylle.’ They preview the rest of the year’s movie slate, discuss whether movies like 'Dune: Part Two' can outperform the limitations of their genre, offer up some potential wild-card hits, and wonder whether the lack of major franchise releases in 2024 will boost original and original-ish movies like Ryan Gosling's ‘The Fall Guy.’ Matt finishes the show by giving a box office prediction for the upcoming film ‘Madame Web.’

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Host: Matt Belloni

Guest: Scott Mendelson

Producers: Craig Horlbeck and Jessie Lopez

Theme Song: Devon Renaldo

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Live From Las Vegas: Oscars Pressure, Late-Night TV, and the Vegas Sports Boom With Jimmy Kimmel

Mon, 12 Feb 2024 10:00:00 -0000

Live from Las Vegas, Matt is joined by Bloomberg’s Lucas Shaw and special guest Jimmy Kimmel to discuss the state of sports television, the NFL's dominance in an otherwise struggling television landscape, Las Vegas as a Super Bowl venue, the potential move of the Oakland A's to Vegas, the hardest part about hosting the Oscars, the future of late-night television, and more.

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Host: Matt Belloni

Guests: Lucas Shaw and Jimmy Kimmel

Producers: Craig Horlbeck and Jessie Lopez

Theme Song: Devon Renaldo

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Did Disney Get Its Magic Back?

Fri, 09 Feb 2024 02:56:00 -0000

Matt is joined by media analyst Rich Greenfield to discuss Disney’s latest quarterly earnings report, as well as a slew of new announcements from CEO Bob Iger. Matt and Rich run through each announcement, including their new $1.5 billion investment in Epic Games, a stand-alone ESPN streaming service, their bundled sports streaming service with Fox and WBD, Moana 2, Taylor Swift's concert movie coming to Disney+, and the Nelson Peltz proxy battle. Later, the pair determine whether they can prove to the creative community that they are officially back. Matt finishes the show with a prediction about the Gina Carano–Disney lawsuit.

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Host: Matt Belloni

Guest: Rich Greenfield

Producers: Craig Horlbeck and Jessie Lopez

Theme Song: Devon Renaldo

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Will the New All-in-One Sports App Finally Kill Cable?

Thu, 08 Feb 2024 02:38:00 -0000

Matt is joined by sports business journalist and Puck contributor John Ourand to discuss ESPN, Fox, and Warner Bros. Discovery teaming up to create a new over-the-top sports streaming platform that will air live sports from ESPN, TNT, FS1, and more. They discuss the dynamics of this deal, why this is happening, how it will affect the future of linear cable, potential drawbacks, and more. Matt finishes the show with a Super Bowl ratings prediction.

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Host: Matt Belloni

Guest: John Ourand

Producers: Craig Horlbeck and Jessie Lopez

Theme Song: Devon Renaldo

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Five Major Music Business Questions After the Grammy's

Mon, 05 Feb 2024 23:23:00 -0000

Matt is joined by Bloomberg’s Lucas Shaw to discuss the highlights, lowlights, and most pressing music industry questions after the 2024 Grammy Awards. Matt and Lucas check in on the music business, including the ongoing feud between Universal Music Group and TikTok, Taylor Swift's new album announcement, the Grammy's problem with hip-hop, the future of the Las Vegas Sphere, and more.

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Host: Matt Belloni

Guest: Lucas Shaw

Producers: Craig Horlbeck and Jessie Lopez

Theme Song: Devon Renaldo

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TikTok vs. Universal Music: Why Taylor, Drake and Others Were Yanked

Fri, 02 Feb 2024 22:44:00 -0000

Matt is joined by Rolling Stone’s Ethan Millman to discuss the ongoing battle between Universal Music Group and TikTok, why Taylor Swift, Drake, and other artists’ music is no longer on the app, if TikTok deserves to pay less in royalties because of its cultural prominence and inherent marketing advantage, and ultimately who needs who more. Matt finishes the show with a prediction about the final season of ‘Curb Your Enthusiasm’.

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Host: Matt Belloni

Guest: Ethan Millman

Producer: Craig Horlbeck and Jessie Lopez

Theme Song: Devon Renaldo

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The Politics of Studios and Movie Stars

Thu, 01 Feb 2024 09:00:00 -0000

Matt is joined by filmmaker Ed Zwick ('Glory,' 'Blood Diamond,' 'The Last Samurai') to discuss the art of studio and movie star politics in a constantly evolving industry. Ed talks about the era of high-end dramas in Hollywood, how to manage studios, the exploitation of test screenings, how to handle a difficult movie star, and much more. Matt finishes the show with a box office prediction about the upcoming movie ‘Argylle.’

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Host: Matt Belloni

Guest: Ed Zwick

Producers: Craig Horlbeck and Jessie Lopez

Theme Song: Devon Renaldo

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A Wild Week at Netflix: Stuber’s Out, WWE Is In, and Subs Are Up

Mon, 29 Jan 2024 23:22:00 -0000

Matt is joined by Bloomberg’s Lucas Shaw to discuss film chief Scott Stuber’s exit from Netflix and what it means for the streamer's movie arm, Netflix’s foray into live programming with a $5 billion deal for WWE's 'Raw,' and its latest earnings report, which saw a big boost in subscriber growth. Matt, Lucas, and producer Craig finish the show by adding a new wrinkle to the 2024 box office draft.

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Host: Matt Belloni

Guest: Lucas Shaw

Producers: Craig Horlbeck and Jessie Lopez

Theme Song: Devon Renaldo

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A Top Dealmaker’s Media M&A Predictions

Thu, 25 Jan 2024 20:41:00 -0000

Matt is joined by Joe Ravitch, the founder and partner at The Raine Group, to discuss the secret to a successful media merger, the dealmaking landscape in 2024, whether looming consolidation could hurt creatives in the industry, the appetite for tech companies to buy content companies, and more. Matt finishes the show with a prediction about John Stewart’s return to ‘The Daily Show.’

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Host: Matt Belloni

Guest: Joe Ravitch

Producers: Craig Horlbeck and Jessie Lopez

Theme Song: Devon Renaldo

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Can Sundance Save Indie Film? With CEO Joana Vicente

Wed, 24 Jan 2024 11:00:00 -0000

Live from Park City, Utah, at the Sundance Film Festival, Matt is joined by Joana Vicente, a former producer and the current CEO of the Sundance Institute. Matt and Joana discuss the state of independent film, the perils of the indie film to streaming pipeline, the possibility of the festival leaving Park City in the near future, Scott Stuber's exit from Netflix, and more. Matt finishes the show with a prediction about the 2024 Academy Awards.

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Host: Matt Belloni

Guest: Joana Vicente

Producers: Craig Horlbeck and Jessie Lopez

Theme Song: Devon Renaldo

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The 2024 Box Office Draft

Mon, 22 Jan 2024 19:18:00 -0000

Matt is joined by Bloomberg’s Lucas Shaw to conduct the second annual box office draft on ‘The Town.’ Matt and Lucas each draft five blockbusters set to be released in 2024 with the goal of making the most money possible against the production budget. Plus, an added twist that allows each person to saddle the others team with a movie they believe will bomb.

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Host: Matt Belloni

Guest: Lucas Shaw

Producers: Craig Horlbeck and Jessie Lopez

Theme Song: Devon Renaldo

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The 'SNL' Succession Sweepstakes

Fri, 19 Jan 2024 03:06:00 -0000

Matt is joined by journalist, author, and 'SNL' expert James Andrew Miller to discuss whether Lorne Michaels will actually step down after the 50th anniversary of 'Saturday Night Live' in 2025 and, if so, who is best suited to replace him. They also discuss the state of the show, its struggle with political humor, and its lack of star power.

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Host: Matt Belloni

Guest: James Andrew Miller

Producers: Craig Horlbeck and Jessie Lopez

Theme Song: Devon Renaldo

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Peacock’s NFL Debut and the Viability of Streaming-Only Sports

Tue, 16 Jan 2024 21:50:00 -0000

Matt is joined by Bloomberg’s Lucas Shaw to discuss the NFL’s first streaming exclusive playoff game, which featured the Miami Dolphins and the Kansas City Chiefs on Peacock. They break down why this should largely be considered a success for Peacock, how to retain the influx of new subscribers, and if the streaming exclusive sporting event is the right path forward. Matt finishes the show with a prediction about the next host of the Oscars.

For a 20 percent discount on Matt’s Hollywood insider newsletter, ‘What I’m Hearing ...,’ click here.

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Host: Matt Belloni

Guest: Lucas Shaw

Producers: Craig Horlbeck and Jessie Lopez

Theme Song: Devon Renaldo

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The Billionaire Blueprint to Buy Paramount

Fri, 12 Jan 2024 09:00:00 -0000

Matt is joined by Puck’s Bill Cohan to discuss the latest reports about Paramount Global’s potential sale, specifically looking at David Ellison’s pitch to acquire the media empire by purchasing National Amusement, Paramount’s parent company. Matt and Bill discuss Shari Redstone’s willingness to now engage, the financial problems as well as complications and high risk involved with the potential deal, what Ellison could do with the assets he doesn't want, and what the future holds for Paramount Global if no deal is made. Matt finishes the show with a prediction for the opening weekend of ‘Mean Girls’.

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Host: Matt Belloni

Guest: Bill Cohan

Producers: Craig Horlbeck and Jessie Lopez

Theme Song: Devon Renaldo

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The McAfee Hail Mary and ESPN's Search for Answers

Wed, 10 Jan 2024 22:20:00 -0000

Matt is joined by journalist Ethan Strauss of the ‘House of Strauss’ Substack to discuss the messy Pat McAfee saga and what it says about the state of ESPN. They unpack ESPN's decision to license 'The Pat McAfee Show,' whether the attempt to draw younger audiences to ESPN's linear channel is working, and whether the YouTube-ification of ESPN is a sustainable model. Matt finishes the show with a prediction about who will host the next Academy Awards.

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Host: Matt Belloni

Guest: Ethan Strauss

Producers: Craig Horlbeck and Jessie Lopez

Theme Song: Devon Renaldo

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Four Burning Hollywood Questions to Kick Off 2024

Tue, 09 Jan 2024 01:34:00 -0000

Matt is joined by Bloomberg’s Lucas Shaw to discuss the most pressing questions as we begin a new year in Hollywood, including the drama around Disney’s proxy battle, Bob Iger’s continued search for a successor, the looming NBA rights deal and the fate of local sports, and Oppenheimer’s dominance at the Golden Globes and what the rest of awards season will hold.

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Host: Matt Belloni

Guest: Lucas Shaw

Producers: Craig Horlbeck and Jessie Lopez

Theme Song: Devon Renaldo

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Are the Golden Globes Unkillable?

Thu, 04 Jan 2024 17:10:00 -0000

Matt is joined by Brooks Barnes from The New York Times to discuss the long and messy path of the Golden Globes as we gear up for the 81st Golden Globe Awards on Sunday. Matt and Brooks discuss why this show can’t seem to die even though it's been mired in controversy, how it has been reformed under new ownership, whether people even want to celebrate Hollywood anymore, and why the Globes will probably still exist 30 years from now. Matt finishes the show with a prediction about the ratings for the Golden Globes.

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Host: Matt Belloni

Guest: Brooks Barnes

Producers: Craig Horlbeck and Jessie Lopez

Theme Song: Devon Renaldo

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The Young Movie Star Power Rankings

Wed, 03 Jan 2024 21:09:00 -0000

Matt is joined by Deadline senior reporter Justin Kroll to discuss the young movie stars on the rise and fall after a chaotic movie year in Hollywood. They highlight the movies that catapulted young actors into stardom, as well as some of the more puzzling casting decisions that potentially hurt someone's career. Matt finishes the show with a prediction about the 2024 box office in January and February.

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Host: Matt Belloni

Guest: Justin Kroll

Producers: Craig Horlbeck and Jessie Lopez

Theme Song: Devon Renaldo

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The Townies, Part 2: Who Won the Year in Hollywood?

Thu, 28 Dec 2023 21:00:00 -0000

In Part 2 of the exclusive Townie Awards, Matt and Bloomberg’s Lucas Shaw select their Winner of the Year in Hollywood, and give out a number of additional awards, including Executive Fail of the Year, Low-Key Flex, Movie Marketing Miss of the Year, The “Did I Say That Out Loud” Award for Worst Quote, the Mea Culpa I Was Wrong Award, as well as the Suck It Haters I Was Right Award, and more.

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Host: Matt Belloni

Guest: Lucas Shaw

Producers: Craig Horlbeck and Jessie Lopez

Theme Song: Devon Renaldo

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The Townies: Hollywood’s Best and Worst of 2023

Thu, 28 Dec 2023 00:27:00 -0000

It’s podcasting's most exclusive event of the year: The second annual Townie Awards! This is a show made up of awards created by us, based on our own interpretations of the craziest year in Hollywood, maybe ever? In Part 1, Matt is joined by Lucas Shaw, the Amy Poehler to his Tina Fey, to give out the first round of awards, including Most Destructive Behind-the-Scenes Drama, Publicist Fail of the Year, Most Annoying Media Narrative, Deal of the Year, Larry David Spite Store of the Year, Sneaky Success of the Year, and much more.

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Host: Matt Belloni

Guest: Lucas Shaw

Producers: Craig Horlbeck and Jessie Lopez

Theme Song: Devon Renaldo

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Warner Bros. and Paramount Are Talking. Should They Merge?

Thu, 21 Dec 2023 19:04:00 -0000

Matt is joined by LightShed Partners media analyst Rich Greenfield to break down the latest reports of a meeting between Warner Bros. Discovery CEO David Zaslav and Paramount Global CEO Bob Bakish in New York City to discuss a possible merger. Matt and Rich discuss what a deal would look like between these two legacy companies, how this would affect the streaming and cable networks for both of these companies, and whether or not major mergers in modern Hollywood ever work. Matt finishes the show with a prediction about the weekend box office.

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Host: Matt Belloni

Guest: Rich Greenfield

Producers: Craig Horlbeck and Jessie Lopez

Theme Song: Devon Renaldo

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The Biggest Debacles of 2023: Studio Screwups, Executive Misfires, and Underrated Disasters

Mon, 18 Dec 2023 22:23:00 -0000

Matt is joined by Bloomberg’s Lucas Shaw to discuss the biggest disasters of 2023 after a chaotic and frustrating year in Hollywood. With the labor shutdowns being the clear answer for the biggest debacle, Matt and Lucas look beyond the strikes to nominate what they believe have been the most calamitous misfires in the industry this year.

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Host: Matt Belloni

Guest: Lucas Shaw

Producers: Craig Horlbeck and Jessie Lopez

Theme Song: Devon Renaldo

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The Animation Arms Race With Illumination CEO Chris Meledandri

Thu, 14 Dec 2023 11:00:00 -0000

Matt is joined by film producer and founder/CEO of Illumination, Chris Meledandri, to discuss a very weird year for theatrical animation, which featured a billion-dollar hit in ‘The Super Mario Bros. Movie’ and big misses with originals like ‘Wish’ and ‘Strange World’. Chris helps explain the business of feature animation, why original animated movies have been struggling, and how Illumination differs from the other major players in animation like Pixar and Disney Animation, DreamWorks, and more. Matt finishes the show with a box office prediction for the upcoming film ‘Wonka’.

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Host: Matt Belloni

Guest: Chris Meledandri

Producers: Craig Horlbeck and Jessie Lopez

Theme Song: Devon Renaldo

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Ted Sarandos on Netflix’s New Era of Data Transparency

Wed, 13 Dec 2023 01:00:00 -0000

Matt is joined by Netflix co-CEO Ted Sarandos and Bloomberg’s Lucas Shaw to discuss Netflix's newest expansion into data transparency, called “What We Watched: A Netflix Engagement Report,” a biannual report covering six months of streaming habits on the platform across more the 18,000 shows and movies between January-June 2023. Matt and Lucas dive into the data and ask Ted about Netflix’s shift in strategy, the downstream effect on the rest of the streamers, and how this will alter the deal-making market for creators. Matt finishes the show with a prediction about the fate of Paramount Global.

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Host: Matt Belloni

Guest: Ted Sarandos

Producers: Craig Horlbeck and Jessie Lopez

Theme Song: Devon Renaldo

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Are Streamers Helping or Hurting the Movie Business?

Fri, 08 Dec 2023 05:00:00 -0000

Matt is joined by Ted Hope, a producer and former cohead of movies at Amazon Studios, to discuss streaming's negative impact on the movie business. Ted provides his perspective to explain how global streaming platforms have damaged the independent film business, how predatory pricing has corrupted the market, how the incentives of streamers have changed, and what should be done to fix this. Matt finishes the show with a box office prediction for Hayao Miyazaki's newest film, ‘The Boy and the Heron.’

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Host: Matt Belloni

Guest: Ted Hope

Producer: Craig Horlbeck

Theme Song: Devon Renaldo

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The Companies Most Likely to Be Bought or Sold in 2024

Thu, 07 Dec 2023 04:52:00 -0000

Matt is joined by Axios senior correspondent Sara Fischer to dissect the biggest deals of 2023, and what we can expect in 2024. They discuss why private equity may dominate the deal market next year, the possibility of a major merger, and predict what 2024 will hold for Paramount Global, Warner Bros. Discovery, Comcast, theater chains, NBA rights, and more. Matt finishes the show by giving a prediction on a potential IATSE strike in the spring.

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Host: Matt Belloni

Guest: Sara Fischer

Producer: Craig Horlbeck

Theme Song: Devon Renaldo

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The Murky Metrics of Podcast Success

Tue, 05 Dec 2023 00:09:00 -0000

Matt is joined by Bloomberg’s Ashley Carman to discuss the state of the podcast industry and its struggle to reach profitability despite its growth. They talk about the murky metrics for success, the era of companies going “all in” on celebrity podcasts, the comedy podcaster boom, Spotify vs. Apple vs. YouTube, and the rise of the video podcast. Matt finishes the show with a prediction about the future of streamer bundling.

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Host: Matt Belloni

Guest: Ashley Carman

Producer: Craig Horlbeck and Jessie Lopez

Theme Song: Devon Renaldo

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The Biggest Streaming Power Moves of 2023

Fri, 01 Dec 2023 22:04:00 -0000

Matt is joined by Julia Alexander—the director of strategy at Parrot Analytics and a streaming wars expert—to discuss the year's most strategic and powerful moves made by streamers to try to gain an advantage over their rivals, and which worked the best. Matt finishes the show with a prediction about the 2024 Oscars.

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Host: Matt Belloni

Guest: Julia Alexander

Producer: Craig Horlbeck and Jessie Lopez

Theme Song: Devon Renaldo

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Hollywood’s Star-making Problem, with a Top Casting Director

Fri, 01 Dec 2023 00:39:00 -0000

Matt is joined by longtime casting director Denise Chamian to provide her perspective on some of the industry’s most pressing topics, including Hollywood’s lack of young movie stars, AI replacing actors, the effectiveness of the SAG-AFTRA strike, as well as misconceptions about the casting process and how it has changed. She also reveals a few secrets about the casting for ‘Top Gun: Maverick’ and ‘Elvis’, and highlights a few actors she believes are stars in the making. Matt finishes the show by giving a prediction for the opening weekend of 'Renaissance: A Film By Beyoncé’.

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Host: Matt Belloni

Guest: Denise Chamian

Producer: Craig Horlbeck and Jessie Lopez

Theme Song: Devon Renaldo

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Who Will Buy Paramount?

Tue, 28 Nov 2023 04:32:00 -0000

Matt is joined by Bloomberg’s Lucas Shaw to discuss Paramount Global’s struggle to survive in the age of streaming, whether owner Shari Redstone will be forced to sell the family business, and, if so, whom she will sell it to. Matt finishes the show by giving an update on the 2023 box office draft between him and Lucas.

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Email us your thoughts! thetown@spotify.com

Host: Matt Belloni

Guest: Lucas Shaw

Producers: Craig Horlbeck and Jessie Lopez

Theme Song: Devon Renaldo

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Does Big Tech Belong in Hollywood?

Wed, 22 Nov 2023 11:00:00 -0000

Matt is joined by Vox senior correspondent and 'Recode Media' host Peter Kafka to discuss the new era of tech and Hollywood, including the long-term place of Apple and Amazon in the entertainment industry, the rise of advertising in streaming, YouTube's and TikTok’s power, the complicated relationship between big tech and sports, big tech’s foray into the media ecosystem, how it will affect the traditional broadcast industry, Elon Musk's impact on Twitter and social media, and the upcoming Elon Musk movie. Matt finishes the show with a box office prediction for Disney’s ‘Wish’ and Apple’s ‘Napoleon.’

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Host: Matt Belloni

Guest: Peter Kafka

Producers: Craig Horlbeck and Jessie Lopez

Theme Song: Devon Renaldo

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Unexpected Winners and Losers of the Hollywood Labor Strikes

Mon, 20 Nov 2023 11:00:00 -0000

Matt is joined by Bloomberg’s Lucas Shaw to discuss some of the unexpected winners and losers in the wake of the strikes, highlighting those who suffered from collateral damage or perhaps benefited from fortuitous timing during Hollywood's extended shutdown.

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Host: Matt Belloni

Guest: Lucas Shaw

Producers: Craig Horlbeck and Jessie Lopez

Theme Song: Devon Renaldo

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Potential Backfires in the Actors AI Deal

Fri, 17 Nov 2023 02:14:00 -0000

Matt is joined by Justine Bateman—writer, director, producer, former actress, and SAG-AFTRA negotiation committee consultant on the use of AI—to discuss the protections established against the use of AI in the new SAG-AFTRA deal. She voices criticisms of the AI portion of the contract, and highlights potential loopholes that could significantly affect working actors and permanently alter the future of filmmaking. Matt finishes the show with a prediction about the upcoming release of ‘The Hunger Games: The Ballad of Songbirds and Snakes’.

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Host: Matt Belloni

Guest: Justine Bateman

Producer: Craig Horlbeck and Jessie Lopez

Theme Song: Devon Renaldo

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Rupert’s Retirement and Fox’s Place in Hollywood

Tue, 14 Nov 2023 22:53:00 -0000

Matt is joined by journalist and former chief media correspondent for CNN Brian Stelter to discuss the unique business behind Fox and its relationship with Hollywood moving forward in post-Rupert era, including how it continues to generate billions in profits every year, their lucrative deal with the NFL, and their ad-supported TV service, Tubi. Matt finishes the show with a prediction on Tom Brady’s media career.

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Host: Matt Belloni

Guest: Brian Stelter

Producer: Craig Horlbeck and Jessie Lopez

Theme Song: Devon Renaldo

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Bob Iger’s Year One: Highs, Lows, and Marvel Woes

Mon, 13 Nov 2023 23:28:00 -0000

Matt is joined by Bloomberg’s Lucas Shaw to discuss one year of Bob Iger 2.0 and his latest comments surrounding the company's fourth quarter earnings report, including more aggressive cost-cutting measures, quantity vs. quality criticism of the film and TV division, and their promising streaming subscriber gains. Matt finishes the show with a prediction on the fate of Warner Bros. Discovery’s unreleased movie, ‘Coyote vs. Acme.’

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Host: Matt Belloni

Guest: Lucas Shaw

Producer: Craig Horlbeck and Jessie Lopez

Theme Song: Devon Renaldo

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The End of the Actors Strike With Duncan Crabtree-Ireland

Thu, 09 Nov 2023 07:59:00 -0000

On Wednesday night, SAG-AFTRA and the AMPTP reached a tentative deal on a three-year contract valued at over $1 billion, ending the longest strike in the union’s history at 118 days. Matt is joined by the national executive director and chief negotiator for SAG-AFTRA, Duncan Crabtree-Ireland, to give more details on what the actors won in their new deal. They discuss the provisions for consent and compensation with AI, the new streaming and viewership-based program for residuals, why he was thrilled when George Clooney offered a proposal, Fran Drescher’s presence in the negotiating room, potential lessons learned, and so much more.

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Host: Matt Belloni

Guest: Duncan Crabtree-Ireland

Producers: Craig Horlbeck and Jessie Lopez

Theme Song: Devon Renaldo

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How the Strike Derailed Oscar Season

Wed, 08 Nov 2023 23:32:00 -0000

Matt is joined by New York Times’ Kyle Buchanan to discuss the upended awards season in the wake of the actors strike, how it has stripped actors of participating in all of the usual promotional activities, and how much disruption on the campaign trail actually matters this Oscars season. They talk about who is suffering the most, who has been given a boost, and how things will shake after the strike ends.

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Host: Matt Belloni

Guest: Kyle Buchanan

Producer: Craig Horlbeck and Jessie Lopez

Theme Song: Devon Renaldo

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Why Batman and Everything Else Is Coming to Netflix

Tue, 07 Nov 2023 00:00:00 -0000

Matt is joined by Bloomberg’s Lucas Shaw to discuss how the non-Netflix streaming services can survive in a Netflix-dominated world. They discuss Warner Bros. Discovery's licensing of a large collection of DC films to Netflix and whether sending A-list content to Netflix is sustainable for the other streamers. Matt finishes the show with a prediction on where Jon Stewart will land a new show.

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Host: Matt Belloni

Guest: Lucas Shaw

Producers: Craig Horlbeck and Jessie Lopez

Theme Song: Devon Renaldo

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Should Reality Stars Have a Union? With Bethenny Frankel

Thu, 02 Nov 2023 22:03:00 -0000

Matt is joined by entrepreneur, media personality, and former Bravo star Bethenny Frankel to discuss the abusive and oppressive working conditions on reality shows, the mistreatment of their participants, and why she is pushing for the unionization of reality TV. She discusses why a union is the best way to protect reality TV stars, the forces preventing this from happening, and how she sees her role in this process. Matt finishes the show with a prediction about Disney’s buyout of Hulu.

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Host: Matt Belloni

Guest: Bethenny Frankel

Producer: Craig Horlbeck and Jessie Lopez

Theme Song: Devon Renaldo

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The Reboot Era and TV’s IP Obsession

Wed, 01 Nov 2023 10:00:00 -0000

Matt is joined by former NBC and Fox executive Preston Beckman to discuss if the TV revival is a viable option for TV networks nowadays. Do networks see pre-branded properties like 'Frasier' as more important than ever, or are they a vestige of a past era on its last leg? They also discuss the art of pilot recastings, if 'Friends' will ever be revived, the state of the binge model, and if TV scheduling is more or less important than ever. Matt finishes the show with a prediction on the World Series.

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Host: Matt Belloni

Guest: Preston Beckman

Producers: Craig Horlbeck and Jessie Lopez

Theme Song: Devon Renaldo

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How Screwed Is the 2024 Movie Calendar?

Mon, 30 Oct 2023 22:54:00 -0000

Matt is joined by Bloomberg’s Lucas Shaw to discuss how the strikes have affected the 2024 movie calendar after several studios have pushed the releases of several blockbuster films, including Disney’s ‘Snow White’ remake and the next ‘Mission: Impossible,’ both now pushed to 2025. They discuss whether these moves can be seen as strategic or simply responses to production delays caused by the strikes. They discuss the similarities that 2024 might have to the pandemic box office, nominate some potential benefactors, and guess who might suffer the most. Matt finishes the show with a prediction about the possibility of a union for reality stars.

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Host: Matt Belloni

Guest: Lucas Shaw

Producer: Craig Horlbeck and Jessie Lopez

Theme Song: Devon Renaldo

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Wed, 18 Oct 2023 10:00:00 -0000

Matt is joined by Andrew Wallenstein, Variety Intelligence’s chief media analyst, to discuss live concerts' hot streak and the post-pandemic rise of the experience economy, as well as historic ticket prices, the lengths fans are going to to see their favorite artists, what this means for the future of live music, and more. Matt finishes the show with a prediction about stand-up comedy on streaming.

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To sample the study mentioned in today's interview, visit Variety.com/livemusic.

Host: Matt Belloni

Guest: Andrew Wallenstein

Producers: Craig Horlbeck and Jessie Lopez

Theme Song: Devon Renaldo

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The Hollywood Stock Market: Travis Kelce’s Media Career, Netflix With Ads, Mega Music Docs, and More!

Mon, 16 Oct 2023 17:58:00 -0000

Live from Bloomberg’s Screentime event in Los Angeles, Matt and Lucas Shaw buy and sell a slew of Hollywood-related topics, including Travis Kelce’s eventual post-NFL career, Netflix’s ad tier, megastar music documentaries, Sam Levinson, the state of talent agencies, Paramount Global, and more. They also discuss the latest update in the ongoing actors strike.

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Host: Matt Belloni

Guest: Lucas Shaw

Producers: Craig Horlbeck and Jessie Lopez

Theme Song: Devon Renaldo

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Taylor Swift, Olivia Rodrigo, and the Fights Over Song Credits

Thu, 12 Oct 2023 19:52:00 -0000

Matt is joined by Howard King, a music industry expert and trial lawyer who has represented Dr. Dre, Eminem, Snoop Dogg, and many major artists in the music industry, to shed light on the complicated world of copyright infringement in the music industry songwriting credits, and why Olivia Rodrigo had to give writing credits to Taylor Swift and Jack Antonoff for her songs “Deja Vu” and “1 Step Forward, 3 Steps Back.” Matt finishes with a review of the Taylor Swift Eras tour movie after attending the premiere and updates his prediction on the box office performance for the film’s opening weekend.

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Host: Matt Belloni

Guest: Howard King

Producer: Craig Horlbeck and Jessie Lopez

Theme Song: Devon Renaldo

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Price Hikes and the Streaming Class System

Tue, 10 Oct 2023 22:20:00 -0000

Matt is joined by Bloomberg’s Lucas Shaw to discuss yet another round of price hikes for ad-free streaming services like Disney+ and Netflix, how the business is evolving to push people into the ad-supported tiers, the disappearance of the streaming middle class, how much these subscription prices could be, and more. Matt finishes the show by giving a prediction about the Sphere.

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Host: Matt Belloni

Guest: Lucas Shaw

Producers: Craig Horlbeck and Jessie Lopez

Theme Song: Devon Renaldo

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Live Sports on Max, and the Inevitable All-In-One App

Thu, 05 Oct 2023 22:32:00 -0000

Matt is joined by JB Perrette, president and CEO of global streaming and games at Warner Bros. Discovery, to discuss WBD's simulcasting live sports option on its streaming platform, Max; why they're doing this; growing direct to consumer without turning their back on linear channels; where the future of live sports is; maintaining a relationship with cable carriers; how this will affect Warner Bros. Discovery's bid for NBA rights; and more. Matt finishes the show with a prediction for the opening weekend of 'The Exorcist: Believer.'

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Host: Matt Belloni

Guest: JB Perrette

Producers: Craig Horlbeck and Jessie Lopez

Theme Song: Devon Renaldo

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Influencers Don’t Need Hollywood Anymore

Wed, 04 Oct 2023 10:00:00 -0000

Matt is joined by journalist and author Taylor Lorenz to discuss how influencers and the creator economy have both benefited and suffered from the strike, the relationship between Hollywood and digital creators, the goal of the modern influencer, the best platforms for monetization, and much more. Matt finishes the show by giving a prediction on ‘Naked Attraction,’ the newest reality show added to the Max streaming service.

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Host: Matt Belloni

Guest: Taylor Lorenz

Producers: Craig Horlbeck and Jessie Lopez

Theme Song: Devon Renaldo

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The Post-Strike State of TV and Movie Writing

Mon, 02 Oct 2023 22:34:00 -0000

Matt is joined by Bloomberg’s Lucas Shaw to discuss the business of screenwriting in the wake of the end of the writers strike. Most would agree that “peak TV” is over, and most streamers are cutting back on the amount of television shows they produce each year. Matt and Lucas discuss how this retrenchment will affect the bottom line for writers, and if the slowdown in overall deals will push writers back toward movies. Matt finishes the show by giving a prediction about Beyoncé and Taylor Swift’s upcoming concert films.

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Host: Matt Belloni

Guest: Lucas Shaw

Producer: Craig Horlbeck and Jessie Lopez

Theme Song: Devon Renaldo

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Lessons From the ‘Must-See TV’ Era, with Warren Littlefield

Fri, 29 Sep 2023 10:00:00 -0000

Matt is joined by producer and former NBC executive Warren Littlefield to discuss the state of broadcast television and how the industry has changed from the heyday of the must-see TV era of the ’90s. Warren talks about what it was like to run a TV network in the ’90s—and when shows would generate ratings that seem unthinkable today—and how the fall TV slate has declined in the streaming era. Matt finishes the show with a box office prediction about a slate of movies being released this weekend.

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Host: Matt Belloni

Guest: Warren Littlefield

Producer: Craig Horlbeck and Jessie Lopez

Theme Song: Devon Renaldo

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What the Writers Guild Won, With a Negotiator

Wed, 27 Sep 2023 23:33:00 -0000

Matt is joined by writer, TV host, and WGA negotiation committee member Adam Conover to break down the details of the deal and outline what exactly the writers won, including the groundbreaking success-based streaming residual, official language on AI restrictions, minimum staffing for writers rooms, and much more. Matt finishes the show by giving a prediction on NFL ratings in the wake of the Taylor Swift–Travis Kelce frenzy.

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Host: Matt Belloni

Guest: Adam Conover

Producer: Craig Horlbeck and Jessie Lopez

Theme Song: Devon Renaldo

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The Writers Strike Is Over. Can We All Be Friends Again?

Mon, 25 Sep 2023 18:15:00 -0000

On Sunday night, the WGA and the AMPTP reached a tentative deal on a new three-year contract, paving the way for the end of the strike after 146 days, the second longest ever. Matt is joined by Bloomberg’s Lucas Shaw to discuss what happens now, including what needs to happen for this deal to be finalized; where they landed on key issues like minimum staffing protections against AI, performance-based residuals, and pay increases; what this means for the SAG-AFTRA strike; and whether everyone can be friends again now that a deal has been made.

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Host: Matt Belloni

Guest: Lucas Shaw

Producers: Craig Horlbeck and Jessie Lopez

Theme Song: Devon Renaldo

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The End of Fox News and the Murdoch Empire

Thu, 21 Sep 2023 10:00:00 -0000

Matt is joined by journalist Michael Wolff, author of ‘The Fall: The End of Fox News and the Murdoch Dynasty,’ to talk about the state of play in the Murdoch family, what a post-Murdoch Fox News looks like, Murdoch’s distaste for Donald Trump, similarities between the 2020 and 2024 elections, what the future holds for the powerful media empire, and more.

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Host: Matt Belloni

Guest: Michael Wolff

Producer: Craig Horlbeck and Jessie Lopez

Theme Song: Devon Renaldo

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From Sports to Hollywood With Casey Wasserman

Wed, 20 Sep 2023 10:00:00 -0000

Matt is joined by Casey Wasserman, chairman and CEO of Wasserman and chairperson of the LA2028 Olympic and Paralympic Games. They discuss Casey’s jump into the traditional entertainment business after purchasing Brillstein Entertainment Partners and what it means for the future of Wasserman, if we will continue to see consolidation in the management field, his thoughts on the ongoing strikes, as well as his vision for the L.A. Olympics in 2028.

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Host: Matt Belloni

Guest: Casey Wasserman

Producers: Craig Horlbeck and Jessie Lopez

Theme Song: Devon Renaldo

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The Strike’s Permanent Damage: Who Will Suffer the Most?

Tue, 19 Sep 2023 00:27:00 -0000

Matt is joined by Bloomberg’s Lucas Shaw to discuss the long-term impact of the strike and who or what will suffer the most after it’s over. They talk about how peak TV, late-night talk shows, Bob Iger, Drew Barrymore, streaming content, and overall deals will fare in the aftermath of the strike. Matt finishes the show by giving a prediction about ‘Yellowstone’ re-airing on CBS.

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Host: Matt Belloni

Guest: Lucas Shaw

Producer: Craig Horlbeck and Jessie Lopez

Theme Song: Devon Renaldo

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Why Can’t Bob Iger Find a Successor?

Thu, 14 Sep 2023 10:00:00 -0000

Matt is joined by CNBC’s Alex Sherman to discuss Disney’s dysfunction over the past few years, including the unceremonious end to the Bob Chapek era, Bob Iger’s inability to find a successor, why he came back to Disney, how long he will stay, and whether Iger is the right person to run Disney right now. Matt finishes the show by giving a prediction about this weekend's box office.

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Host: Matt Belloni

Guest: Alex Sherman

Producer: Craig Horlbeck and Jessie Lopez

Theme Song: Devon Renaldo

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A WWE and UFC Tag Team, With Endeavor’s Mark Shapiro

Tue, 12 Sep 2023 20:42:00 -0000

Matt is joined by Mark Shapiro, the president of Endeavor and now TKO, the newly formed sports and entertainment company merging WWE and UFC. They discuss the details behind the deal, what this means for Dana White and Vince McMahon, who gains the most from this merger, the upcoming rights deals for both sports, and how people will be able to watch in the future. Mark also gives his take on the recent CAA sale, as well as on how his agency, WME, is faring during the strike. Matt finishes the show with a prediction about the return of Drew Barrymore’s talk show.

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Host: Matt Belloni

Guest: Mark Shapiro

Producers: Craig Horlbeck and Jessie Lopez

Theme Song: Devon Renaldo

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CAA’s New Billionaire Owner and the (Over)Value of Talent Agencies

Mon, 11 Sep 2023 21:44:00 -0000

Matt is joined by Bloomberg’s Lucas Shaw to discuss the world of talent representation’s transformation over the past few years and particularly during the strikes. They discuss majority owner TPG selling its stake in CAA to French billionaire François-Henri Pinault for $7 billion, why he made this deal, what it means for CAA, and the talent representation industry at large. Matt finishes the show with a prediction about Charter’s new deal with ESPN.

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Host: Matt Belloni

Guest: Lucas Shaw

Producer: Craig Horlbeck and Jessie Lopez

Theme Song: Devon Renaldo

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Fall Festival Buzz and the Beginning of Oscar Season With the Head of TIFF

Thu, 07 Sep 2023 10:00:00 -0000

It’s festival season, so Matt is joined by Cameron Bailey, the CEO of the Toronto International Film Festival (TIFF), to discuss the trickle-down effect of the strikes on film festivals, why TIFF is so successful in predicting Oscar nominations, and how to handle a festival without stars. Matt finishes the show by giving a prediction about Warner Bros. Discovery CEO David Zaslav's end-of-year bonus.

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Host: Matt Belloni

Guest: Cameron Bailey

Producers: Craig Horlbeck and Jessie Lopez

Theme Song: Devon Renaldo

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Disney’s ESPN Fight and Taylor’s Movie Takeover

Wed, 06 Sep 2023 00:08:00 -0000

Matt is joined by Bloomberg’s Lucas Shaw to discuss the ongoing dispute between Charter and Disney and why this one might be different because it might not be just about the money. They wonder whether this has the possibility to blow up the cable model, who has the leverage, and whether an end is in sight. Then they pivot to Taylor Swift’s disruptive deal with AMC Theatres and the choice to bypass a studio distributor and take her concert film directly to theaters. They talk about why she and her family opted to do this, what the economics look like for Taylor, whether other artists will follow in her footsteps, and whether it will land on streaming.

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Host: Matt Belloni

Guest: Lucas Shaw

Producers: Craig Horlbeck and Jessie Lopez

Theme Song: Devon Renaldo

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The Summer Box Office Awards Show

Thu, 31 Aug 2023 10:00:00 -0000

Matt is joined by Jeff Bock from Exhibitor Relations to look back on a bizarre summer at the box office and hand out awards for the highs and lows of the 2023 summer movie season. They give out awards like Franchise Flex, Biggest Flop, Winner and Loser of the Summer, Biggest Comedy Fail, I Guess We Gotta Make Another, and more. Matt finishes the show by predicting the box office opening weekend for 'The Equalizer 3.'

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Host: Matt Belloni

Guest: Jeff Bock

Producers: Craig Horlbeck and Jessie Lopez

Theme Song: Devon Renaldo

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The Growing Power of IMAX, With Its CEO

Wed, 30 Aug 2023 10:00:00 -0000

Matt is joined by the CEO of IMAX, Rich Gelfond, to discuss the impressive success of ‘Oppenheimer’ in IMAX theaters, its opening in China this week, the decision to give ‘Oppenheimer’ IMAX exclusivity over ‘Mission: Impossible—Dead Reckoning Part One,’ whether moviegoing will continue to skew more toward premium experiences like IMAX, and whether Apple should buy IMAX.

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Host: Matt Belloni

Guest: Rich Gelfond

Producer: Craig Horlbeck and Jessie Lopez

Theme Song: Devon Renaldo

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The Three Biggest Hold-ups in the Writers Strike

Mon, 28 Aug 2023 22:53:00 -0000

Matt is joined by Bloomberg’s Lucas Shaw to discuss the state of the WGA and SAG-AFTRA strikes, including the AMPTP’s decision to publicize its latest offer to the WGA, whether any ground is being made, whether Netflix is best suited to initiate an agreement, and whether the fall is still a reasonable time for all of this to end.

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Host: Matt Belloni

Guest: Lucas Shaw

Producers: Craig Horlbeck and Jessie Lopez

Theme Song: Devon Renaldo

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Is Apple’s Sports Experiment Working?

Fri, 25 Aug 2023 00:00:00 -0000

Matt is joined by Parrot Analytics director of strategy and Puck contributor Julia Alexander to talk about Apple TV+ and its current standing with consumers, as well as the company's big bet on Major League Soccer and whether it’s working, how Lionel Messi is juicing its numbers, what its long-term play is in sports, and whether a streamer’s money is better spent on live sports or creating new original scripted content.

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Host: Matt Belloni

Guest: Julia Alexander

Producer: Craig Horlbeck and Jessie Lopez

Theme Song: Devon Renaldo

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Justin, Ariana, and the Scooter Braun Mess

Thu, 24 Aug 2023 00:43:00 -0000

Matt is joined by Shirley Halperin, the Los Angeles magazine editor in chief, to discuss the latest in the Scooter Braun–Justin Bieber–Ariana Grande situation. They talk about Scooter’s meteoric rise in the music industry, discuss how he has cultivated his image, and ultimately debate why so many major artists are reportedly trying to cut ties with Braun as their manager right now.

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Host: Matt Belloni

Guest: Shirley Halperin

Producers: Craig Horlbeck and Jessie Lopez

Theme Song: Devon Renaldo

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Predicting Hollywood’s September Surprises

Mon, 21 Aug 2023 21:58:00 -0000

Matt is joined by Bloomberg’s Lucas Shaw to predict what surprises could be in store for Hollywood as we start shifting to the fall season. They debate if one of the strikes could finally end, who will fill Donna Langley’s role at Universal, which studio executive will be the next to go, and so much more.

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Host: Matt Belloni

Guest: Lucas Shaw

Producers: Craig Horlbeck and Jessie Lopez

Theme Song: Devon Renaldo

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How Much Money Does a Hit Movie Really Make (and a Flop Really Lose)?

Thu, 17 Aug 2023 23:51:12 -0000

Matt is joined by John Mass, president of Content Partners, to discuss how a movie really reaches profitability, address the common misconceptions of how a movie makes money, and explain how a movie that seems like a hit might still be unprofitable—as well as how a movie that sputters in theaters can still be extremely valuable to a studio.

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Host: Matt Belloni

Guest: John Mass

Producer: Craig Horlbeck

Theme Song: Devon Renaldo

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Disney’s ESPN Dilemma: to Sell or Not to Sell?

Mon, 14 Aug 2023 20:55:00 -0000

Matt is joined by Bloomberg’s Lucas Shaw to discuss ESPN's foray into gambling after it struck a deal with PENN Entertainment to create ESPN Bet, why Bob Iger and Disney decided to make this move now, and how this affects ESPN's value proposition in the wake of Bob Iger’s comments that he is interested in a strategic partner with the worldwide leader. Matt and Lucas discuss whether selling ESPN outright is still on the table for Disney, as well as potential buyers, partners, and more.

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Host: Matt Belloni

Guest: Lucas Shaw

Producer: Craig Horlbeck and Jessie Lopez

Theme Song: Devon Renaldo

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The Doomsday AI Scenario In Hollywood

Thu, 10 Aug 2023 21:54:00 -0000

Matt is joined by Justine Bateman—writer, director, producer, former actress, and SAG-AFTRA negotiation committee consultant on the use of AI—to discuss if we are underestimating AI's overall impact and how it impacts the strike itself. They talk about whether the guilds are taking the right position on AI, what the future of content will look like if studios fully embrace AI, and if anything positive can come out of this. Matt finishes the show with a prediction about the future of the Disney+ bundle after their latest price hikes.

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Host: Matt Belloni

Guest: Justine Bateman

Producer: Craig Horlbeck and Jessie Lopez

Theme Song: Devon Renaldo

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Everyone Running Hollywood Is Old. Does That Matter?

Wed, 09 Aug 2023 23:03:00 -0000

Matt is joined by former CAA co-chairman and agent of 40 years Rick Nicita to talk about why the most important executives in Hollywood are so old, and how that affects the way the industry is run today. They discuss the difference between Hollywood in the ’70s and ’80s—when it was commonplace for studio heads to be in their 30s—and 2023, when most of the major executives are the very same people from back in the day. They talk about whether there is a direct line between the aging Hollywood and the diminished box office, and how creativity is more obstructed than ever by financial responsibilities.

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Host: Matt Belloni

Guest: Rick Nicita

Producer: Craig Horlbeck and Jessie Lopez

Theme Song: Devon Renaldo

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Will Anyone Budge on Data Transparency in Hollywood?

Mon, 07 Aug 2023 21:51:00 -0000

Matt is joined by Bloomberg’s Lucas Shaw to discuss one of Hollywood’s most hotly debated topics: data transparency among streamers. As the writers and actors strike drags on, data transparency continues to be a nonnegotiable for studios and a necessary inclusion for the guilds. Matt and Lucas discuss why the sides are so far apart, why streamers don’t want to release data, how data obscurity affects financials, and whether any of this could or should change. Matt finishes the show by recapping his Taylor Swift concert experience and making a prediction about how much money her tour will make.

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Host: Matt Belloni

Guest: Lucas Shaw

Producer: Craig Horlbeck and Jessie Lopez

Theme Song: Devon Renaldo

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Checking in on Warner Bros. Discovery and the Max Platform

Fri, 04 Aug 2023 00:42:00 -0000

Matt is joined once again by LightShed Partners media analyst Rich Greenfield to discuss the state of Warner Bros. Discovery following the results of the second quarter earnings, as well as Rich’s thoughts on Tom Staggs and Kevin Mayer returning to Disney to help Bob Igor with their linear TV platforms. They debate if placing content on a small platform with limited reach hurts the value of the content, the need for better personalization for the Max app, what news could look like on Max, and more. Also, Matt shares his prediction on this weekend’s box office by looking at ‘Teenage Mutant Turtles: Mutant Mayhem’ and ‘The Meg 2: The Trench.’

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Host: Matt Belloni

Guest: Rich Greenfield

Producer: Craig Horlbeck and Jessie Lopez

Theme Song: Devon Renaldo

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The Barbie Effect on Female Filmmakers

Thu, 03 Aug 2023 00:07:00 -0000

Matt is joined by The Hollywood Reporter’s senior film editor, Rebecca Keegan, to discuss how the success of Greta Gerwig’s ‘Barbie’ will influence female filmmakers and the industry at large. Matt finishes the show by giving a prediction about the upcoming negotiations between the WGA and the AMPTP.

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Host: Matt Belloni

Guest: Rebecca Keegan

Producers: Craig Horlbeck and Jessie Lopez

Theme Song: Devon Renaldo

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Villains, Saviors, and Developments Three Months Into Hollywood’s Shutdown

Mon, 31 Jul 2023 22:32:00 -0000

Matt is joined by Bloomberg’s Lucas Shaw to discuss the most interesting developments that have shaped Hollywood’s shutdown over the past three months and determine which strategies and tactics from both the WGA and SAG, as well as the AMPTP, have worked and which haven’t. Matt finishes the show with a prediction about the future potential of ‘Barbie’s’ success.

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Host: Matt Belloni

Guest: Lucas Shaw

Producer: Craig Horlbeck and Jessie Lopez

Theme Song: Devon Renaldo

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Selling ‘Barbie’: Inside the Marketing Phenomenon

Wed, 26 Jul 2023 10:00:00 -0000

Matt is joined by Warner Bros. president of worldwide marketing Josh Goldstine to discuss the strategy behind one of the great marketing campaigns of all time in ‘Barbie.' They break down the bold and subversive marketing choices that suggested this was not your typical ‘Barbie’ movie; how they were able to pull this off with the owner of Barbie IP, Mattel; and how the ‘Barbenheimer’ phenomenon took effect. Later, Matt makes a prediction about ‘Barbie’s' chances at an Oscar nomination.

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Host: Matt Belloni

Guest: Josh Goldstine

Producer: Craig Horlbeck and Jessie Lopez

Theme Song: Devon Renaldo

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How 'Sound of Freedom' Outperformed 'Mission: Impossible'

Mon, 24 Jul 2023 10:00:00 -0000

Matt is joined by Bloomberg’s Lucas Shaw to discuss how the independent thriller ‘Sound of Freedom’ came out of nowhere and made $100 million in its first two weeks. They talk about the unique crowdfunding “pay-it-forward” model that helped market and finance the film and wonder if this is just a fluke or if there are any lessons to learn.

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Host: Matt Belloni

Guest: Lucas Shaw

Producers: Craig Horlbeck and Jessie Lopez

Theme Song: Devon Renaldo

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Has Netflix Officially Won the Streaming War?

Thu, 20 Jul 2023 20:17:00 -0000

Matt is joined by research analyst Michael Pachter to unpack Netflix’s strong earnings report this week that included the company adding 5.9 million subscribers in Q2. They discuss what Netflix is doing right and how other streamers can learn from them, why the stock went down this week, whether the password crackdown is working, how Netflix should differentiate themselves during the writers and actors strike, and more. Matt finishes the show with a prediction about the opening weekend for ‘Barbie’ and ‘Oppenheimer.'

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Host: Matt Belloni

Guest: Michael Pachter

Producer: Craig Horlbeck and Jessie Lopez

Theme Song: Devon Renaldo

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‘Barbie’ and ‘Oppenheimer's’ Epic Weekend Face-Off

Wed, 19 Jul 2023 10:00:00 -0000

Matt is joined by The Quorum founder David Herrin to discuss the meteoric rise in popularity of ‘Barbie,' the unprecedented data around its tracking, how the marketing has eventized the film, and why this movie has taken the world by storm. They also discuss the "Barbenheimer" movement and how the simultaneous release of ‘Barbie’ and ‘Oppenheimer’—along with the newest Mission Impossible film and the unexpected hit ‘The Sound of Freedom’— makes this one of the most interesting weekends in film that David has ever seen.

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Host: Matt Belloni

Guest: David Herrin

Producer: Craig Horlbeck and Jessie Lopez

Theme Song: Devon Renaldo

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Bob Iger’s Fire Sale: The Fate of ESPN, ABC, and Hulu

Mon, 17 Jul 2023 21:04:00 -0000

Matt is joined by Bloomberg’s Lucas Shaw to discuss Bob Iger’s latest comments on the possibility of selling off Disney’s linear TV assets, including the ABC television network and its station affiliates, FX, and ESPN. They break down Iger’s strategy or lack thereof, the suitors for ABC and ESPN, and whether a deal with Comcast for Hulu is possible.

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Host: Matt Belloni

Guest: Lucas Shaw

Producers: Craig Horlbeck and Jessie Lopez

Theme Song: Devon Renaldo

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Inside the Actors Strike With Its Top Negotiator

Fri, 14 Jul 2023 17:53:00 -0000

Matt is joined by National Executive Director and Chief Negotiator of SAG-AFTRA Duncan Crabtree-Ireland to gain more insight from the union’s side of the strike. They break down all the issues that the actors have with A.I., digital replicas, and more. Duncan also shares the proposals that were given during the negotiations that were all eventually turned down, as well as the rules for union members during the strike and how long they are prepared to stand their ground.

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Host: Matt Belloni

Guest: Duncan Crabtree-Ireland

Producer: Jessie Lopez

Theme Song: Devon Renaldo

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BREAKING: Actors Go on Strike

Fri, 14 Jul 2023 01:56:00 -0000

Matt is joined by Puck’s Jonathan Handel as they discuss the failed negotiations between the studios and SAG-AFTRA, who are now ready to go on strike. They discuss where the talks break down, what is realistically going to happen from here, and more. And, after yesterday’s Emmy nominations, Matt finished the show by giving his prediction for Best Comedy Series.

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Host: Matt Belloni

Guest: Jonathan Handel

Producer: Jessie Lopez

Theme Song: Devon Renaldo

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The State of R-Rated Comedies, With Evan Goldberg

Wed, 12 Jul 2023 10:00:00 -0000

Matt is joined by Point Grey cofounder Evan Goldberg to discuss his latest release, ‘Joy Ride,’ and how comedies can become theatrical successes once again. They discuss how theatrical releases rely on eventizing the film, what the studios are looking for when it comes to comedies, and if it is possible for someone to create comedies with the same strategy that Blumhouse uses to create horror movies. Also, they talk about the censorship of comedies, if it is still possible for comedies to produce stars, and why Point Grey is hesitant to work with Marvel and DC. Matt finishes off the show by making a prediction on ‘Mission: Impossible – Dead Reckoning Part One.’

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Host: Matt Belloni

Guest: Evan Goldberg

Producer: Jessie Lopez

Theme Song: Devon Renaldo

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Amazon’s Spending Spree Under Scrutiny

Mon, 10 Jul 2023 21:14:00 -0000

Matt is joined by Bloomberg’s Lucas Shaw to discuss his latest piece about Amazon CEO Andy Jassy asking his studio executives for detailed budget analyses of some of their biggest shows. They debate whether Amazon’s issue is more related to its content strategy, what happened during the production of ‘Citadel,' the overall goal at Amazon with Prime Video, Jen Salke’s job security, and more. Also, Matt makes a prediction after attending the 'Barbie' premiere.

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Host: Matt Belloni

Guest: Lucas Shaw

Producer: Jessie Lopez

Theme Song: Devon Renaldo

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Thu, 06 Apr 2023 10:00:00 -0000

Matt is joined by Puck senior political correspondent Tara Palmeri to discuss the ongoing battle between Disney and Florida Governor Ron DeSantis regarding an investigation into Disney’s circumvention of Florida’s plans to takeover Reedy Creek—a special district that was created by Disney and is responsible for governing the area surrounding Walt Disney World. They discuss Bob Iger calling DeSantis’s actions “anti-business” and “anti-Florida,” the downsides of Disney getting political, how much this could damage DeSantis politically, and ultimately who will come out on top. Matt finishes the show by giving a prediction about the opening weekend for Ben Affleck’s new sports drama, ‘Air.’

Read Tara's latest piece here

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Host: Matt Belloni

Guest: Tara Palmeri

Producer: Craig Horlbeck

Theme Song: Devon Renaldo

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From Viral Videos to Hit TV With Dave Burd

Wed, 05 Apr 2023 10:00:00 -0000

Matt is joined by rapper, comedian, writer, and actor Dave Burd—better known by his stage name, Lil Dicky—to discuss how his show ‘Dave’ became the most watched comedy in the history of FX networks, his approach to the show, his unique path to stardom, and his long term goals in comedy. Matt finishes the show with a prediction about the opening weekend of ‘The Super Mario Bros. Movie.’

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Host: Matt Belloni

Guest: Dave Burd

Producer: Craig Horlbeck

Theme Song: Devon Renaldo

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WWE Sells, Netflix Pulls Back, and the Oscars' Bold Bid on Theaters

Mon, 03 Apr 2023 19:26:02 -0000

Matt is joined by Bloomberg’s Lucas Shaw to discuss Endeavor merging with the WWE, Netflix restructuring and retracting its movie division with the intention to make fewer projects and fewer lower-budget films, and the Oscars' plans to require theatrical releases in 15-20 major markets to earn eligibility for a best picture nomination. Matt finishes the show by giving a prediction about the 2023 box office.

For a 20 percent discount on Matt’s Hollywood insider newsletter, ‘What I’m Hearing ...,’ click this link: puck.news/thetown

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Host: Matt Belloni

Guest: Lucas Shaw

Producer: Craig Horlbeck

Theme Song: Devon Renaldo

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Has Hollywood Finally Figured Out Video Games?

Thu, 30 Mar 2023 18:38:57 -0000

Matt is joined by author and media investor Matthew Ball to discuss the recent boom in successful video game adaptations in Hollywood, whether this is the beginning of a new trend, which studios are best suited to capitalize on this movement, and how this affects the metaverse. Matt finishes the show by giving a box office prediction about the opening weekend for ‘Dungeons & Dragons: Honor Among Thieves.’

For a 20 percent discount on Matt’s Hollywood insider newsletter, ‘What I’m Hearing ...,’ click this link: puck.news/thetown

Email us your thoughts! thetown@spotify.com

Host: Matt Belloni

Guest: Matthew Ball

Producer: Craig Horlbeck

Theme Song: Devon Renaldo

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Marvel’s Bad CGI and the Firing of a “Kingmaker”

Thu, 30 Mar 2023 03:31:27 -0000

Matt is joined by Chris Lee, a senior reporter at Vulture and New York magazine, to discuss why the quality of visual effects in comic book movies, particularly Marvel movies, seems to be declining. They discuss Marvel’s questionable employment practices, how it outsources portions of its VFX for cheap, the possibility of a VFX union, and how Marvel chooses and oversees its directors. Then they read the tea leaves on Disney’s firing of Victoria Alonso, the president of physical, postproduction, VFX, and animation at Marvel Studios.

For a 20 percent discount on Matt’s Hollywood insider newsletter, ‘What I’m Hearing ...,’ click this link: puck.news/thetown

Email us your thoughts! thetown@spotify.com

Host: Matt Belloni

Guest: Chris Lee

Producer: Craig Horlbeck

Theme Song: Devon Renaldo

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Apple’s Billion-Dollar Bet on Movie Theaters

Mon, 27 Mar 2023 18:39:43 -0000

Matt is joined by Bloomberg’s Lucas Shaw to discuss his report about Apple planning to get into the theatrical business in a big way, with the company planning to spend $1 billion to make and release movies in theaters. They break down Apple’s rationale, partnering with traditional studios for distribution help, its commitment to making movies with top-level talent, and whether or not this will help build the Apple TV+ brand.

For a 20 percent discount on Matt’s Hollywood insider newsletter, ‘What I’m Hearing ...,’ click this link: puck.news/thetown

Email us your thoughts! thetown@spotify.com

Host: Matt Belloni

Guest: Lucas Shaw

Producer: Craig Horlbeck

Theme Song: Devon Renaldo

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Lionsgate Film Chief Joe Drake on ‘John Wick’ and the Modern Independent Studio

Fri, 24 Mar 2023 18:31:27 -0000

Matt is joined by the chair of the motion picture group at Lionsgate, Joe Drake, to talk about how the 'John Wick' series came to be and the future of the franchise, how hard is it for a non-major studio to compete with other studios in the theatrical business, making originals vs. franchises, and how an independent movie studio survives in 2023. They also discuss a potential sale of Lionsgate and what is next for the company. Matt finishes the show with a prediction about the final season of ‘Succession.’

For a 20 percent discount on Matt’s Hollywood insider newsletter, ‘What I’m Hearing ...,’ click this link: puck.news/thetown

Email us your thoughts! thetown@spotify.com

Host: Matt Belloni

Guest: Joe Drake

Producer: Craig Horlbeck

Theme Song: Devon Renaldo

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BET and the Future of Small Streamers

Thu, 23 Mar 2023 20:50:00 -0000

Matt is joined by Puck contributor and analyst at Parrot Analytics Julia Alexander to talk about Paramount selling the BET, a rare instance in which a media conglomerate sells an entire network and streaming service. They discuss why Paramount is selling BET, rumored potential suitors like Tyler Perry and Diddy, and the argument for small streamers to be in the hands of independent owners instead of major media conglomerates. Matt finishes the show with a prediction about ‘John Wick: Chapter 4.’

Read Julia's article on Puck here!

For a 20 percent discount on Matt’s Hollywood insider newsletter, ‘What I’m Hearing ...,’ click this link: puck.news/thetown

Email us your thoughts! thetown@spotify.com

Host: Matt Belloni

Guest: Julia Alexander

Producer: Craig Horlbeck

Theme Song: Devon Renaldo

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Is the Franchise Model Starting to Fatigue in Hollywood?

Mon, 20 Mar 2023 20:12:58 -0000

Matt is joined by Bloomberg’s Lucas Shaw to discuss whether we are starting to see signs of decline in the franchise entertainment model. After the poor box-office showing of 'Ant Man and the Wasp: Quantumania' and a slow start to Season 3 of 'The Mandalorian,' they speculate about whether the bankable franchise model of spinoffs, sequels, prequels, and universes is still as safe a bet as it once was. Matt finishes the show with a prediction about Hulu’s future and the upcoming film ‘Flamin’ Hot.’

For a 20 percent discount on Matt’s Hollywood insider newsletter, ‘What I’m Hearing ...,’ click this link: puck.news/thetown

Email us your thoughts! thetown@spotify.com

Host: Matt Belloni

Guest: Lucas Shaw

Producer: Craig Horlbeck

Theme Song: Devon Renaldo

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Tue, 31 Jan 2023 00:35:56 -0000

Matt is joined by Bloomberg’s Lucas Shaw to discuss NBC’s typically struggling streaming service, Peacock, and its strong start to 2023. With shows like 'Yellowstone' and movies like ‘Nope,’ Peacock saw a 40 percent increase in subscribers in Q4 of 2022. Matt and Lucas discuss why Peacock may be long for the streaming world, what Comcast should do with its stake in Hulu, and how long Peacock can lose money before pulling the plug.

Host: Matt Belloni

Guest: Lucas Shaw

Producer: Craig Horlbeck

Theme Song: Devon Renaldo

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How an Indie Film Becomes an Oscar Winner

Fri, 27 Jan 2023 01:00:00 -0000

Live from Sundance, Matt is joined by Michael Barker, the copresident and cofounder of Sony Pictures Classics, to discuss Sony’s ability to discover Oscar-level movies at film festivals and whether the business of making money off of small movies is doomed to extinction. Michael details how Sony Classics has pivoted to survive, his pitch to filmmakers these days, and how to take a Sundance film all the way to the Oscars.

Click here for 20% off Matt’s Hollywood insider newsletter ‘What I’m Hearing’.

Email us your thoughts! thetown@spotify.com

Host: Matt Belloni

Guest: Michael Barker

Producer: Craig Horlbeck

Theme Song: Devon Renaldo

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Is the Sundance Dream Still Alive?

Thu, 26 Jan 2023 00:00:00 -0000

Live from Sundance, Matt is joined by entertainment dealmaker, lawyer, and media advisor John Sloss. John and his company, Cinetic Media, have been involved in some of the biggest sales in the festival's history. He and Matt discuss Sundance’s return to in-person programming for the first time in three years and how the market has changed over the years, as well as John’s concerns about the independent scripted drama, the future of arthouse movies, and how the age of streaming affects the world of independent cinema.

Host: Matt Belloni

Guest: John Sloss

Producer: Craig Horlbeck

Theme Song: Devon Renaldo

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How the Shocking Andrea Riseborough Oscar Nomination Happened

Wed, 25 Jan 2023 01:38:45 -0000

Matt is joined by Dani Weinstein, a veteran communications executive and marketer, to break down the savvy marketing campaign behind Andrea Riseborough’s surprise Academy Award nomination for Best Actress in the movie ‘To Leslie.’ Dani has been in the trenches of Oscar campaigns for years and helps detail how Riseborough’s unique campaign contributed to a nomination. They discuss how social media has changed the modern Oscar campaign and speculate if Riseborough’s nomination playbook has forever changed the strategy of the Oscar campaign.

Host: Matt Belloni

Guest: Dani Weinstein

Producer: Craig Horlbeck

Theme Song: Devon Renaldo

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Inside the Netflix Executive Shake-up

Mon, 23 Jan 2023 19:48:39 -0000

Matt is joined by Bloomberg's Lucas Shaw to go inside Netflix’s announcement that cofounder and co-CEO Reed Hastings will be stepping down, with COO Greg Peters joining Ted Sarandos as co-CEOs moving forward. They discuss why Reed chose to leave right now, other C-suite restructuring within the company, and what this means for the future of Netflix.

Host: Matt Belloni

Guest: Lucas Shaw

Producer: Craig Horlbeck

Theme Song: Devon Renaldo

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Making Movie Stars Younger With AI

Thu, 19 Jan 2023 11:00:00 -0000

Matt is joined by VFX executive Matt Panousis to discuss Hollywood’s open secret of de-aging actors, a new tool called Vanity AI, and when we’ll see dead stars resurrected convincingly on our screens.

Host: Matt Belloni

Guest: Matt Panousis

Producer: Devon Manze

Theme Song: Devon Renaldo

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Should Disney Be Afraid of Nelson Peltz?

Tue, 17 Jan 2023 20:28:00 -0000

Matt is joined by Bloomberg’s Lucas Shaw to discuss Disney’s proxy battle against activist shareholder Nelson Peltz, his plan (or lack thereof) to “restore the magic” at the company, and where other shareholders might fall between Peltz, Marvel’s Ike Perlmutter, and CEO Bob Iger.

Email us your thoughts at thetown@spotify.com.

Host: Matt Belloni

Guest: Lucas Shaw

Producer: Devon Manze

Theme Song: Devon Renaldo

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Around the World With Netflix’s Head of TV

Fri, 13 Jan 2023 21:44:09 -0000

Matt is joined by Rachel Syme to talk about her latest ‘New Yorker’ profile on Bela Bejaria, the global head of television at Netflix. Rachel talks about her months spent with Bela traveling to Netflix offices all over the world. She talks about Netflix’s evolved identity as a tastemaker, how quantity seems to be prioritized over quality, their strategy to globalize content, and more.

Host: Matt Belloni

Guest: Rachel Syme

Producer: Craig Horlbeck

Theme Song: Devon Renaldo

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‘M3GAN,' and How to Market a Movie to Young People

Wed, 11 Jan 2023 18:11:57 -0000

Matt is joined by Michael Moses, the chief marketing officer at Universal Pictures, to discuss their latest hit, the horror film ‘M3GAN,’ and why it brought so many young people to the theater. Matt and Michael discuss how the viral marketing campaign led to nearly half of the movie's audience coming from people under 25 years old, why Universal’s batting average is so high with horror films, and how marketing can completely change the success of a film.

Host: Matt Belloni

Guest: Michael Moses

Producer: Craig Horlbeck

Theme Song: Devon Renaldo

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Vince McMahon’s Return and the WWE’s Most Intriguing Suitors

Mon, 09 Jan 2023 22:40:49 -0000

Matt is joined by Bloomberg’s Lucas Shaw to discuss Vince McMahon’s unceremonious return to the WWE, his plan to help facilitate a sale before agreeing to a new TV rights deal, and the front-runners most likely to make a bid to acquire the live wrestling juggernaut.

Email us your thoughts at thetown@spotify.com

Host: Matt Belloni

Guest: Lucas Shaw

Producer: Craig Horlbeck

Theme Song: Devon Renaldo

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The New Black List and the Original Screenwriting Recession

Thu, 05 Jan 2023 20:36:00 -0000

Matt is joined by Franklin Leonard, a film executive and the founder of the Black List, a yearly publication featuring Hollywood's most popular unproduced screenplays, to discuss the market for original screenwriting, the value a good script still holds in Hollywood, why comedies have disappeared, how the Black List helps anoint the next generation of writers, the potential writers strike this spring, and how AI could affect the careers of screenwriters.

Host: Matt Belloni

Guest: Franklin Leonard

Producer: Craig Horlbeck

Theme Song: Devon Renaldo

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Why Audiences Have Given Up on Awards Movies

Tue, 03 Jan 2023 23:01:52 -0000

Awards season is in full swing, and besides 'Avatar,' the critically acclaimed movies are more or less tanking. Today Matt is joined by Kevin Goetz—founder and CEO of Screen Engine/ASI, a leader in content research in the entertainment industry—to discuss the holiday box office slump, the disappearance of the adult drama target audience, and what the data says about the

ongoing moviegoing crisis.

Host: Matt Belloni

Guest: Kevin Goetz

Producer: Craig Horlbeck

Theme Song: Devon Renaldo

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The Townies Part 2: Hollywood’s Best and Worst of 2022

Wed, 28 Dec 2022 19:38:50 -0000

It’s Part 2 of podcasting’s most exclusive event of the year, the first-annual Townie Awards. In Part 2, Matt and Bloomberg’s Lucas Shaw give out the Mea Culpa Award, the Suck Haters I Was Right Award, the Most Annoying Media Narrative Award, the Best and Worst Actor Career Move Awards, and the Winner of the Year.

Host: Matt Belloni

Guest: Lucas Shaw

Producer: Craig Horlbeck

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Thu, 10 Nov 2022 20:03:00 -0000

Welcome back to Town Hall! Matt and Craig answer listener questions about CNN’s lackluster election-night ratings, the host problem with 'SNL,’ Disney’s stock price and Apple’s position to potentially make an offer, the Hallmark movie appeal to major streamers, the Hollywood-China situation, Ryan Murphy’s latest success at Netflix and whether another big deal is in his future, and which streaming services are most likely to merge in the next few years.

Host: Matt Belloni

Producer: Craig Horlbeck

Theme Song: Devon Renaldo

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Mon, 26 Sep 2022 16:28:00 -0000

Disclaimer: This episode was recorded before the ratings of the most recent ‘Thursday Night Football’ game on Amazon Prime between The Pittsburgh Steelers and the Cleveland Browns were released.

Matt is joined by Sports Business Journal's John Ourand to discuss Amazon’s impressive start as an exclusive NFL streamer for ‘Thursday Night Football.’ Amazon’s Week 2 debut between the Kansas City Chiefs and the Los Angeles Chargers drew ratings similar to broadcast television, raising the eyebrows of viewers, advertisers, and television network executives alike. Is this the future?

Email us comments, questions, or ideas at thetown@spotify.com

Host: Matt Belloni

Guest: John Ourand

Producer: Craig Horlbeck

Theme Song: Devon Renaldo

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Town Hall: Star Wars Missteps, Top Gun’s Oscar Potential, and Where Is James Bond?

Thu, 22 Sep 2022 19:00:00 -0000

Welcome to Town Hall! Matt and Craig answer listener questions on Disney’s handling of the 'Star Wars' franchise, the biggest movie set disasters, 'Top Gun' and Tom Cruise’s Oscar buzz, Paramount’s stellar summer and who is responsible, Hollywood’s biggest bets in 2023, the future of the live award show, Apple TV+’s ambitions, and more.

Email us comments, questions, or ideas at thetown@spotify.com.

Host: Matt Belloni

Guest: Lucas Shaw

Producer: Craig Horbeck

Theme Song: Devon Renaldo

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‘Don’t Worry Darling’ and How Controversy Impacts the Box Office

Wed, 21 Sep 2022 19:02:00 -0000

Matt is joined by David Herrin, founder of film research firm The Quorum, to discuss Olivia Wilde’s upcoming film, ‘Don’t Worry Darling,’ and whether the media frenzy and off-screen controversy will affect its performance at the box office. They also look back on past films wrapped up in controversy and determine whether publicity leads to success or failure.

Email us comments, questions, or ideas at thetown@spotify.com.

Host: Matt Belloni

Guest: David Herrin

Producer: Craig Horlbeck

Theme Song: Craig Horlbeck

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Did a $200M Direct-to-Streaming Movie Ever Make Sense?

Mon, 19 Sep 2022 21:56:20 -0000

Matt is joined by Bloomberg’s Lucas Shaw to discuss how much money streaming services should spend on movies that skip a theatrical release and go directly to their streaming platform. They speculate over a streaming service’s return on investment for for a $200 million movie and question whether that business model is sustainable.

Email us comments, questions, or ideas at thetown@spotify.com.

Host: Matt Belloni

Guest: Lucas Shaw

Producer: Craig Horbeck

Theme Song: Devon Renaldo

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Is TV Saving or Killing College Football?

Fri, 16 Sep 2022 19:23:38 -0000

Matt is joined by The Ringer’s Bryan Curtis to discuss the recent conference realignment in college football—where television ratings reign supreme and storied traditions are rapidly disappearing—and whether this new normal is sustainable in a consolidating college football television universe.

Email us comments, questions, or ideas at thetown@spotify.com.

Host: Matt Belloni

Guest: Bryan Curtis

Producer: Craig Horlbeck

Theme Song: Devon Renaldo

Wed, 27 Jul 2022 19:05:39 -0000

Welcome to the second Town Hall! Matt and Craig field listener questions covering topics such as the likelihood of Steven Spielberg greenlighting legacy sequels, the future of the WWE after Vince McMahon, a potential WGA strike and the value of writers in Hollywood, how AMC A-List makes money, Apple TV+’s future, Ezra Miller and ‘The Flash’, Apple’s first animated film ‘Luck’, and more!

Host: Matt Belloni

Producer: Craig Horlbeck

Theme Song: Devon Renaldo

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The 2022 Intellectual Property Draft

Mon, 25 Jul 2022 15:00:00 -0000

Matt is joined by Bloomberg’s Lucas Shaw for the first “IP draft.” Intellectual property rules Hollywood, so Matt and Lucas draft their way through what they believe is the most highly coveted IP in entertainment.

Host: Matt Belloni

Guest: Lucas Shaw

Producer: Craig Horlbeck

Theme Song: Devon Renaldo

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How the Metaverse Could Transform the Entertainment Industry

Thu, 21 Jul 2022 21:05:53 -0000

Matt is joined by author Matthew Ball to discuss his new book on the Metaverse and how it will alter the future of the content and entertainment industry.

Host: Matt Belloni

Guest: Matthew Ball

Producer: Craig Horlbeck

Theme Song: Devon Renaldo

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Release the Snyder Article

Wed, 20 Jul 2022 20:20:40 -0000

Matt is joined by Rolling Stone’s Tatiana Siegel to discuss her latest article, which outlines the bizarre story of online bots fueling the Zack Synder rerelease of ‘Justice League’ and the turmoil it caused within Warner Bros.

Host: Matt Belloni

Guest: Tatiana Siegel

Producer: Craig Horlbeck

Theme Song: Devon Renaldo

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Is the Netflix Movie Model Broken?

Mon, 18 Jul 2022 19:13:17 -0000

With the release of Netflix's $200 million action movie ‘The Gray Man’ this past weekend, Matt is joined by Bloomberg's Lucas Shaw to discuss Netflix's movie strategy, the perception that it makes mock blockbusters, its marketing choices, and what it needs to do to be competitive.

Host: Matt Belloni

Guest: Lucas Shaw

Producer: Craig Horlbeck

Theme Song: Devon Renaldo

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The Uncertain Futures of Netflix, Hulu, and Apple

Fri, 15 Jul 2022 16:44:32 -0000

Matt is joined by LightShed’s Rich Greenfield to discuss the misperceptions of Netflix, Apple, and Hulu in the streaming ecosystem. They discuss the Netflix password crackdown, Netflix choosing Microsoft as its partner for its advertising tier, Hulu’s future with Disney, and Apple’s chances of joining the streaming elites.

Host: Matt Belloni

Guest: Rich Greenfield

Producer: Craig Horlbeck

Theme Song: Devon Renaldo

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Snubs, Surprises, and Industry Takeaways From the 2022 Emmy Nominations

Tue, 12 Jul 2022 18:51:00 -0000

Matt is joined by television critic Inkoo Kang from the Washington Post to break down this year's Emmy nominations, including the most notable shows and actors left off the ballot, surprising nominees, biggest question marks, predictions for Emmy night, and what this says about the current state of the television industry.

Host: Matt Belloni

Guest: Inkoo Kang

Producer: Craig Horlbeck

Theme Song: Devon Renaldo

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A New Look at Harvey Weinstein and Hollywood’s Enablers

Mon, 11 Jul 2022 19:34:03 -0000

Matt is joined by New Yorker writer Ken Auletta to discuss his new book, ‘Hollywood Ending: Harvey Weinstein and the Culture of Silence,’ a biography detailing Weinstein’s rise to dominance in the film industry, his web of collusion, and his scramble to protect himself. Ken details the long and difficult process of writing and covering this story over the past two decades.

Host: Matt Belloni

Guest: Ken Auletta

Producer: Craig Horlbeck

Theme Song: Devon Renaldo

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The 10 Nicest Stars in Hollywood

Thu, 07 Jul 2022 17:52:29 -0000

There are many rumors about who celebrities really are when the cameras are off. Tabloids, manicured interviews, and public appearances often shape the perception of our favorite stars. But we don’t always know who they really are in real life. Is Matt Damon really that nice? What about Tom Hanks? Today, Matt and his former colleague at The Hollywood Reporter Lacey Rose draw from past interactions, connections, and word of mouth to put together their definitive list of the 10 nicest stars in Hollywood.

Host: Matt Belloni

Guest: Lacey Rose

Producer: Craig Horlbeck

Theme Song: Devon Renaldo

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Predictions for Sun Valley’s Summer Camp for Billionaires

Tue, 05 Jul 2022 20:10:33 -0000

Matt is joined by Bloomberg’s Lucas Shaw to discuss the annual Sun Valley conference, dubbed a “summer camp for billionaires,” where chief executives and board chairmen gather for private conversations that often lead to major deals across the tech and media landscape. Matt and Lucas discuss their experience attending Sun Valley conference in the past and prognosticate over which conversations could and should take place.

Host: Matt Belloni

Guest: Lucas Shaw

Producer: Craig Horlbeck

Theme Song: Devon Renaldo

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CAA and the New Reality of Talent Agencies

Fri, 01 Jul 2022 21:44:53 -0000

Matt is joined by author and journalist James Andrew Miller to discuss the ramifications of CAA's acquisition of ICM, including the consolidation of top-level talent agencies, why ICM decided to sell, how this will affect the future of content, and more.

Host: Matt Belloni

Guest: James Andrew Miller

Producer: Craig Horlbeck

Theme Song: Devon Renaldo

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Producer Jason Blum on Money vs. Creativity

Wed, 29 Jun 2022 17:37:49 -0000

Matt is joined by producer, founder, and chief executive of Blumhouse Productions, Jason Blum, to discuss the evolution of economics in the entertainment industry in the age of streaming. Later, Matt runs Jason through a lightning round of questions about various topics in Hollywood.

Host: Matt Belloni

Guest: Jason Blum

Producer: Craig Horlbeck

Theme Song: Devon Renaldo

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The 2022 Half-Year Hollywood Awards

Mon, 27 Jun 2022 20:26:33 -0000

As we near the halfway point of 2022, Matt and Bloomberg’s Lucas Shaw host the first-ever Half-Year Hollywood Awards. They give out awards for the winner and loser of the past six months, Biggest Publicist Fail, Head-scratcher Deal, Most Annoying Trend, predict who will win the next six months, and more.

Host: Matt Belloni

Guest: Lucas Shaw

Producer: Craig Horlbeck

Theme Song: Devon Renaldo

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You Will Pay More for Disney Parks and You Will Like It

Thu, 23 Jun 2022 18:00:00 -0000

Matt is joined by theme park journalist and podcast host Carlye Wisel to talk about the Disney Parks ecosystem, what's new post-pandemic, how they are making all this money, and the future of this important part of the entertainment industry. Then, Matt gives a prediction about the upcoming movie ‘Elvis.’

Host: Matt Belloni

Guest: Carlye Wisel

Producer: Craig Horlbeck

Theme Song: Devon Renaldo

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How the Pandemic Changed the Way You Consume Entertainment

Tue, 21 Jun 2022 18:47:57 -0000

Matt is joined by Bloomberg’s Lucas Shaw to discuss how the pandemic has affected movies, live TV, streaming, and music. They break down the disappointing opening weekend for Pixar’s ‘Lightyear’ and how it may foretell the future of moviegoing, a dip in TV viewership across the country, the future of showrunner megadeals, and the music boom of the 2020s.

Host: Matt Belloni

Guest: Lucas Shaw

Producer: Craig Horlbeck

Theme Song: Devon Renaldo

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Who Survives at the New CNN?

Thu, 16 Jun 2022 20:15:00 -0000

CNN is facing a major makeover at the hands of its new leaders David Zaslav and Chris Licht, but it could mean trouble for old correspondents. Matt brings on Puck writer and CNN expert Dylan Byers to break down Licht’s new strategy and its potential for success.

Host: Matt Belloni

Guest: Dylan Byers

Producer: Devon Manze

Theme Song: Devon Renaldo

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The ‘Stranger Things’ vs. ‘Obi-Wan Kenobi’ Value War

Mon, 13 Jun 2022 18:50:56 -0000

Matt is joined by Julia Alexander of Parrot Analytics to discuss the record-breaking opening week for ‘Stranger Things,' the series' competition with 'Obi-Wan Kenobi,' and the most valuable properties in streaming.

Host: Matt Belloni

Guest: Julia Alexander

Producers: Craig Horlbeck and Devon Manze

Theme Song: Devon Renaldo

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What the Heck Is Going On at Disney?

Thu, 09 Jun 2022 23:05:00 -0000

Matt is joined by CNBC’s Alex Sherman to discuss the surprising firing of Disney entertainment executive Peter Rice. They discuss what Disney is saying about it, what does this say about the future of Disney, and much more.

Host: Matt Belloni

Guest: Alex Sherman

Producer: Craig Horlbeck

Associate Producer: Isaiah Blakely

Theme Song: Devon Renaldo

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NBA Finals Ratings and ESPN's Future in Sports Television

Wed, 08 Jun 2022 19:35:55 -0000

Matt is joined by John Ourand from Sports Business Journal to discuss the unexpectedly low ratings after the first two games of the NBA Finals as well as the future of sports in streaming, including Disney’s commitment to ESPN, a potential buyer for the network, and more.

Host: Matt Belloni

Guest: John Ourand

Host: Craig Horlbeck

Theme Song: Devon Renaldo

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‘Everything Everywhere All at Once’ and A24’s Mystique

Tue, 07 Jun 2022 00:32:06 -0000

Matt is joined by The Hollywood Reporter’s Rebecca Keegan to discuss the indie hit ‘Everything Everywhere All at Once’ and why it resonated with audiences. Later, they talk about A24’s unique cachet in Hollywood, its innovation in marketing and brand awareness, and whether it will eventually be acquired.

Host: Matt Belloni

Guest: Rebecca Keegan

Producer: Craig Horlbeck

Theme Song: Devon Renaldo

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Sat, 02 Apr 2022 00:41:00 -0000

Matt reacts to Will Smith’s resignation from the Academy and explains the details of the decision.

Host: Matt Belloni

Producer: Craig Horlbeck

Theme Song: Devon Renaldo

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The 2022 Grammy Awards and the State of the Music Industry

Thu, 31 Mar 2022 17:00:00 -0000

Matt is joined by Variety executive editor Shirley Halperin to look ahead to Sunday’s 2022 Grammy Awards. They forecast what we will see out of Kanye, whether this will be Olivia Rodrigo’s night, whether a Grammy win still matters to an artist's success, how Vegas as a venue will affect the show, and how streaming saved the music industry.

Host: Matt Belloni

Guest: Shirley Halperin

Producer: Craig Horlbeck

Theme Song: Devon Renaldo

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WWE President Nick Khan

Wed, 30 Mar 2022 18:34:00 -0000

Matt is joined by WWE president Nick Khan to chat about the WWE as a media entity, including its deal with Peacock and whether a potential acquisition is looming. Nick talks about how the WWE wants to develop new wrestlers, changing the narrative of the sport, The Rock’s career, 'Wrestlemania,' and more.

Host: Matt Belloni

Guest: Nick Khan

Producer: Craig Horlbeck

Theme Song: Devon Renaldo

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The Oscars Aftermath

Mon, 28 Mar 2022 23:38:22 -0000

It’s the morning after, and Bloomberg’s Lucas Shaw joins Matt to give a report on the 2022 Academy Awards. They discuss the fallout after the Will Smith–Chris Rock slap, the viewership spike after an all-time low in 2021, and if the modified show format was a success. Later, Matt and Craig review Matt’s past month of predictions.

Host: Matt Belloni

Guest: Lucas Shaw

Producer: Craig Horlbeck

Theme Song: Devon Renaldo

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Live From Inside the Oscars: The Will Smith-Chris Rock Slap

Mon, 28 Mar 2022 04:59:05 -0000

Live from inside the Dolby Theater at the Academy Awards, Matt and The Hollywood Reporter’s Scott Feinberg react to Will Smith slapping Chris Rock in the face onstage during the show.

Host: Matt Belloni

Guest: Scott Feinberg

Producer: Craig Horlbeck

Theme song: Devon Ronaldo

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How to Gamble on the Oscars

Fri, 25 Mar 2022 18:36:30 -0000

Oscar math expert Ben Zauzmer joins the show to outline his Oscars prediction model and to forecast who his model believes are mathematically the most likely winners in each category. Later, Matt gives a prediction of his own on the 2022 Oscars.

Host: Matt Belloni

Guest: Ben Zauzmer

Producer: Craig Horlbeck

Theme Song: Devon Renaldo

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Do the Oscars Need to Be Saved?

Thu, 24 Mar 2022 17:00:00 -0000

Matt is joined by author Mark Harris to discuss the Academy’s decision to cut eight categories from the live Oscars broadcast, and to debate whether or not the ceremony needs to be changed—and if so, how much? Later, Vulture’s Joe Adalian comes on to talk about Amazon hosting the Academy of Country Music Awards and whether awards shows can survive on streaming services.

Host: Matt Belloni

Guests: Mark Harris and Joe Adalian

Producer: Craig Horlbeck

Theme Song: Devon Renaldo

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The NFL Sunday Ticket Bidding War and How Peyton and LeBron Went Hollywood

Wed, 23 Mar 2022 18:44:00 -0000

Matt is joined by co-head and partner at WME Sports Josh Pyatt to discuss why broadcasters are seeing huge paydays, which streaming service needs NFL Sunday Ticket the most, what effect the Manning-cast will have on future broadcasts, why some athletes succeed in building an entertainment business while others fail, and more. Matt finishes the show with a take on NFL announcers.

Host: Matt Belloni

Guest: Josh Pyatt

Producer: Craig Horlbeck

Theme Song: Devon Renaldo

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Do Stars Still Need Agents? Plus, Iger vs. Chapek, and Oscar Drama Begins!

Mon, 21 Mar 2022 19:04:00 -0000

Are the middlemen who have dominated Hollywood for decades in trouble? Matt is joined by Bloomberg’s Lucas Shaw to discuss the future for Hollywood intermediaries, the ongoing turmoil at Disney, and Rachel Zegler of 'West Side Story’ not receiving an invitation to the Oscars.

Host: Matt Belloni

Guest: Lucas Shaw

Producer: Craig Horlbeck

Theme Song: Devon Renaldo

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Amazon Closes Deal to Acquire MGM. Now What?

Thu, 17 Mar 2022 17:47:00 -0000

Matt is joined by chief media analyst of Variety Intelligence Platform Andy Wallenstein to discuss Amazon’s $6.5 billion purchase of MGM Studios and what this means for Amazon's future in the movie and television industry, how this will affect Amazon prime members, and how this will play out in Hollywood.

Host: Matt Belloni

Guest: Andy Wallenstein

Producer: Craig Horlbeck

Theme Song: Devon Renaldo

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Netflix’s Password Crackdown and Their Struggle to Make Movies People Care About

Wed, 16 Mar 2022 22:35:00 -0000

Matt leads off with the bizarre news of movie theater chain AMC buying stock in a gold mine, as well as Discovery CEO David Zaslav’s 2021 pay package totaling over $240 million. Then, senior strategy analyst Julia Alexander joins the show to discuss Netflix beginning to curtail the ability to share a password with multiple users, and whether or not a streaming service like Netflix can produce a lasting movie franchise.

Host: Matt Belloni

Guest: Julia Alexander

Producer: Craig Horlbeck

Theme Song: Devon Renaldo

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'The Batman' Ticket Upcharge and the Future of Moviegoing

Mon, 14 Mar 2022 20:04:00 -0000

In our first episode, Matt Belloni is joined by Puck colleague Ben Landy to run through the latest industry news from the weekend, including HBO Max and Discovery+ merging into one app and the ongoing fallout after Disney CEO Bob Chapek’s handling of the new Florida “Don’t Say Gay” legislation. Then, media analyst Jeff Bock joins the show to discuss the increase in ticket price for ‘The Batman’ as well as what we can expect the 2022 moviegoing experience to look like.

Host: Matt Belloni

Guest: Ben Landy, Jeff Bock

Producer: Craig Horlbeck

Theme Song: Devon Renaldo

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Introducing ‘The Town With Matthew Belloni’

Tue, 08 Mar 2022 11:00:00 -0000

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