“AI” is a swear word in Hollywood, one only muttered at CinemaCon 2024 after a certain number of daiquiris. In Booth #2618A on the trade show floor, it was a pitch.
In our search of the hundreds of participating CinemaCon 2024 vendors, Indy Cinema Group — born in the UK and optimized outside Yosemite — was the lone company bold enough to plant its AI flag in Las Vegas this week.
The Indy app, developed by aerospace-engineer-turned-theater-owner Keith Walker, is out to replace the five or six computer systems a movie theater already uses. Indy will sell your tickets and your concessions, sure, but its real power is in the data. Upselling loyal customers has never been so easy, and staffing never so efficient.
Indy will learn what your customers like to watch, eat, drink, where they like to sit and at what times, and even how long they’ll wait on line for Twizzlers.
In our search of the hundreds of participating CinemaCon 2024 vendors, Indy Cinema Group — born in the UK and optimized outside Yosemite — was the lone company bold enough to plant its AI flag in Las Vegas this week.
The Indy app, developed by aerospace-engineer-turned-theater-owner Keith Walker, is out to replace the five or six computer systems a movie theater already uses. Indy will sell your tickets and your concessions, sure, but its real power is in the data. Upselling loyal customers has never been so easy, and staffing never so efficient.
Indy will learn what your customers like to watch, eat, drink, where they like to sit and at what times, and even how long they’ll wait on line for Twizzlers.
- 4/13/2024
- by Tony Maglio and Brian Welk
- Indiewire
The MPA in America announces plans to work with US lawmakers as it embarks on a fresh crackdown on movie piracy.
Among the announcements coming out of CinemaCon in Las Vegas is news of a fresh crackdown on movie piracy.
It’s been announced by the Motion Picture Association, an American entertainment industry trade association group that has lots of major movie studios among its members. The Motion Picture Association, hereafter known as the MPA, has been working to get fresh legislation through the American legal system, and it’s announced some progress on that front.
The CEO of the group, Charles Rivkin, has announced to CinemaCon attendees that the MPA is now planning to work alongside Congress in the US to pass new rules. These would allow the blocking of websites that share pirated material.
Rivkin argues that over $1bn of ticket sales are currently being lost to piracy,...
Among the announcements coming out of CinemaCon in Las Vegas is news of a fresh crackdown on movie piracy.
It’s been announced by the Motion Picture Association, an American entertainment industry trade association group that has lots of major movie studios among its members. The Motion Picture Association, hereafter known as the MPA, has been working to get fresh legislation through the American legal system, and it’s announced some progress on that front.
The CEO of the group, Charles Rivkin, has announced to CinemaCon attendees that the MPA is now planning to work alongside Congress in the US to pass new rules. These would allow the blocking of websites that share pirated material.
Rivkin argues that over $1bn of ticket sales are currently being lost to piracy,...
- 4/11/2024
- by Simon Brew
- Film Stories
In 2011, at the tail end of the golden age of digital piracy, Hollywood mobilized to crack down on copyright infringement through a pair of bills that would’ve restricted access to sites that host pirated content. The legislation was met with fierce opposition from Silicon Valley and online free speech advocates, who argued that it would’ve effectively promoted censorship, leading to a series of coordinated protests that included Wikipedia going dark and Google blacking out its logo. The proposed laws died soon after.
Studios are again ramping up their war on piracy, this time attempting to avoid the pitfalls in similar efforts more than a decade ago.
Motion Picture Association chief executive Charles Rivkin on Tuesday announced at CinemaCon that the trade group representing the major studios will work with members of Congress to enact legislation allowing companies across the media and entertainment industries to move for the blocking...
Studios are again ramping up their war on piracy, this time attempting to avoid the pitfalls in similar efforts more than a decade ago.
Motion Picture Association chief executive Charles Rivkin on Tuesday announced at CinemaCon that the trade group representing the major studios will work with members of Congress to enact legislation allowing companies across the media and entertainment industries to move for the blocking...
- 4/10/2024
- by Winston Cho
- The Hollywood Reporter - Movie News
CinemaCon is currently going on in Las Vegas, with theater owners and members of the industry on hand to examine the state of the movie business. One issue that's already come up in a big way is piracy. Motion Picture Association (MPA) Chairman and CEO Charles Rivkin took the stage during the State of the Industry presentation on Tuesday and spoke passionately about the matter of people pirating films. Rivkin boldly claimed that piracy costs theaters an estimated $1 billion at the box office annually right now. But the MPA isn't content to just let that continue, as it's also announced a plan to help fight the problem.
Rivkin revealed that the MPA now plans to work with Congress to enact site-blocking legislation in the U.S. This is not the first time that such legislation has been proposed, but as Rivkin pointed out, more than 60 countries around the world have adopted such measures.
Rivkin revealed that the MPA now plans to work with Congress to enact site-blocking legislation in the U.S. This is not the first time that such legislation has been proposed, but as Rivkin pointed out, more than 60 countries around the world have adopted such measures.
- 4/9/2024
- by Ryan Scott
- Slash Film
Michael O’Leary, the new president and CEO of the National Association of Theater Owners, is encouraging Hollywood to think smaller.
Don’t get him wrong — he loves Marvel, “Mission: Impossible” and “Fast & Furious” as much as the next exhibitor. But O’Leary is urging the major studios to prioritize more than just the tentpole properties that prop up the box office. Those mega-budgeted films are great, of course, but he believes that a “variety of movies that appeal to moviegoers is critical” to the survival of the box office.
“It is not enough to rely solely on blockbusters — we must have a strong and vibrant market for movies with smaller or medium-sized budgets,” he said on Tuesday morning at CinemaCon, the exhibition trade show held annually in Las Vegas. He pointed to last year’s offerings of Cord Jefferson’s Oscar-winning literary satire “American Fiction,” romantic drama “Past Lives...
Don’t get him wrong — he loves Marvel, “Mission: Impossible” and “Fast & Furious” as much as the next exhibitor. But O’Leary is urging the major studios to prioritize more than just the tentpole properties that prop up the box office. Those mega-budgeted films are great, of course, but he believes that a “variety of movies that appeal to moviegoers is critical” to the survival of the box office.
“It is not enough to rely solely on blockbusters — we must have a strong and vibrant market for movies with smaller or medium-sized budgets,” he said on Tuesday morning at CinemaCon, the exhibition trade show held annually in Las Vegas. He pointed to last year’s offerings of Cord Jefferson’s Oscar-winning literary satire “American Fiction,” romantic drama “Past Lives...
- 4/9/2024
- by Rebecca Rubin
- Variety Film + TV
Motion Picture Assocation Chairman and CEO Charles Rivkin continued to not hold back at CinemaCon, delivering another Eliot Ness-fueled, colorful crusade speech against piracy.
“Remember – these aren’t teenagers playing an elaborate prank!” exclaimed Rivkin in a drum that’s been beaten by the MPA since the days of the org’s forefather Jack Valenti.
“The perpetrators are real-life mobsters … organized crime syndicates – many of whom engage in child pornography, prostitution, drug trafficking, and so many other societal ills!”
“They operate websites that draw in millions of unsuspecting viewers whose personal data can then fall prey to malware and hackers,” Rivkin said.
Make no mistake here at CinemaCon where the crusade against anti-piracy is very serious. Divorce papers might have the power to slip through to movie stars on stage during studio presentations at the exhib-studio confab, but take out your phone and the security guards will jump on you...
“Remember – these aren’t teenagers playing an elaborate prank!” exclaimed Rivkin in a drum that’s been beaten by the MPA since the days of the org’s forefather Jack Valenti.
“The perpetrators are real-life mobsters … organized crime syndicates – many of whom engage in child pornography, prostitution, drug trafficking, and so many other societal ills!”
“They operate websites that draw in millions of unsuspecting viewers whose personal data can then fall prey to malware and hackers,” Rivkin said.
Make no mistake here at CinemaCon where the crusade against anti-piracy is very serious. Divorce papers might have the power to slip through to movie stars on stage during studio presentations at the exhib-studio confab, but take out your phone and the security guards will jump on you...
- 4/9/2024
- by Anthony D'Alessandro
- Deadline Film + TV
CinemaCon: NATO’s Michael O’Leary urges investment in theatres, MPA’s Charles Rivkin fiery on piracy
CinemaCon’s annual state of the industry address on Tuesday featured the twin attack of NATO head Michael O’Leary’s maiden address and an impassioned talk on piracy from MPA head Charles Rivkin.
O’Leary urged investors to support exhibition and touched on what is already shaping up to be a signature theme of his tenure – support for the independent sector and lower budget cinema.
“Getting more capital into the system will benefit everyone – creatives, studios, exhibition, local communities and, most importantly, movie fans,” O’Leary told attendees at The Colosseum.
“Movies on the big screen benefit everyone. More compelling...
O’Leary urged investors to support exhibition and touched on what is already shaping up to be a signature theme of his tenure – support for the independent sector and lower budget cinema.
“Getting more capital into the system will benefit everyone – creatives, studios, exhibition, local communities and, most importantly, movie fans,” O’Leary told attendees at The Colosseum.
“Movies on the big screen benefit everyone. More compelling...
- 4/9/2024
- ScreenDaily
CinemaCon’s annual state of the industry address on Tuesday featured the twin attack of NATO head Michael O’Leary’s maiden address and an impassioned talk on piracy from MPA head Charles Rivkin.
O’Leary urged investors to support exhibition and touched on what is already shaping up to be a signature theme of his tenure – support for the independent sector and lower budget cinema.
“Getting more capital into the system will benefit everyone – creatives, studios, exhibition, local communities and, most importantly, movie fans,” O’Leary told attendees at The Colosseum.
“Movies on the big screen benefit everyone. More compelling...
O’Leary urged investors to support exhibition and touched on what is already shaping up to be a signature theme of his tenure – support for the independent sector and lower budget cinema.
“Getting more capital into the system will benefit everyone – creatives, studios, exhibition, local communities and, most importantly, movie fans,” O’Leary told attendees at The Colosseum.
“Movies on the big screen benefit everyone. More compelling...
- 4/9/2024
- ScreenDaily
Cinema owners, studios and indie distributors gathering in Las Vegas this week for exhibition’s biggest confab seek visibility into a theatrical landscape gut-punched by Hollywood strikes last year just as a post-Covid recovery was revving up. Production halted for months led to fewer releases on the schedule.
But there’s reason for optimism, from Dune 2 and Godzilla x Kong: The New Empire to a tentpole-laden slate with clips and peeks eagerly awaited by the CinemaCon crowd. Amazon and Apple and studio parents recognize the value of an exclusive theatrical release — a realization that wasn’t at all a given post-pandemic.
National Association of Theatre Owners president and CEO Michael O’Leary and Charles Rivkin, chairman and CEO of the Motion Picture Association, talked with Deadline on the state of the industry as CinemaCon kicks off and ahead of their keynotes Tuesday.
The interviews were edited and condensed for clarity.
But there’s reason for optimism, from Dune 2 and Godzilla x Kong: The New Empire to a tentpole-laden slate with clips and peeks eagerly awaited by the CinemaCon crowd. Amazon and Apple and studio parents recognize the value of an exclusive theatrical release — a realization that wasn’t at all a given post-pandemic.
National Association of Theatre Owners president and CEO Michael O’Leary and Charles Rivkin, chairman and CEO of the Motion Picture Association, talked with Deadline on the state of the industry as CinemaCon kicks off and ahead of their keynotes Tuesday.
The interviews were edited and condensed for clarity.
- 4/8/2024
- by Jill Goldsmith
- Deadline Film + TV
Leading international industry figures have joined the debate about Germany’s revamp of its national film funding system, criticising in particular the proposed introduction of an investment obligation.
Claudia Roth, Germany’s state minister for culture and media, unveiled her proposals to reform the country’s film funding system last week. The key elements are a 30% tax incentive for productions filming in Germany and a 20% investment obligation for streamers.
Charles Rivkin, chairman and CEO of the Motion Picture Association (MPA), said that he had met with German Chancellor Olaf Scholz and others in the coalition government during this year’s...
Claudia Roth, Germany’s state minister for culture and media, unveiled her proposals to reform the country’s film funding system last week. The key elements are a 30% tax incentive for productions filming in Germany and a 20% investment obligation for streamers.
Charles Rivkin, chairman and CEO of the Motion Picture Association (MPA), said that he had met with German Chancellor Olaf Scholz and others in the coalition government during this year’s...
- 2/23/2024
- ScreenDaily
The Motion Picture Association will honor filmmaker J.A. Bayona with its Creator Award at a ceremony in June in Madrid.
His latest film, Society of the Snow, is nominated for best international feature film as well as for makeup effects. His other credits include Jurassic World: Fallen Kingdom, The Impossible and A Monster Calls.
The award is presented “to an individual whose expert and brilliant display of their craft behind the camera has moved and shaped culture and helped audiences see the world in new and different ways,” according to the MPA. The trade association also will present an Industry Champion Award at the Madrid ceremony.
Charles Rivkin, chairman and CEO of the MPA, said in a statement that Bayona’s work “pushes the boundaries of storytelling and celebrates the resilience of the human spirit. This award recognizes Mr. Bayona for embodying the best of the global creative community.”
Past...
His latest film, Society of the Snow, is nominated for best international feature film as well as for makeup effects. His other credits include Jurassic World: Fallen Kingdom, The Impossible and A Monster Calls.
The award is presented “to an individual whose expert and brilliant display of their craft behind the camera has moved and shaped culture and helped audiences see the world in new and different ways,” according to the MPA. The trade association also will present an Industry Champion Award at the Madrid ceremony.
Charles Rivkin, chairman and CEO of the MPA, said in a statement that Bayona’s work “pushes the boundaries of storytelling and celebrates the resilience of the human spirit. This award recognizes Mr. Bayona for embodying the best of the global creative community.”
Past...
- 2/22/2024
- by Ted Johnson
- Deadline Film + TV
Jonathan Powell has been hired as the MPA’s senior vice president for strategic communications.
Powell will shape “the organization’s messaging to local, national, and regional stakeholders around the world,” the MPA said. In the newly created position, he will report to Charles Rivkin, MPA chairman and CEO, and the executive vice president of media relations and communications. Emily Lenzner, who has been in the latter role since 2019, is departing and the MPA has posted her position.
Powell previously worked at the State Department, where he served under then-Secretary of State John Kerry and most recently as a senior advisor to deputy secretaries Wendy Sherman, Richard Verma and Victoria Nuland. He previously was an adviser to other public officials including Nancy Pelosi, as well as Alejandro Mayorkas, Penny Pritzker, Eric Garcetti and Antonio Villaraigosa.
Rivkin said in a statement that Powell’s “global policy expertise and his gift for...
Powell will shape “the organization’s messaging to local, national, and regional stakeholders around the world,” the MPA said. In the newly created position, he will report to Charles Rivkin, MPA chairman and CEO, and the executive vice president of media relations and communications. Emily Lenzner, who has been in the latter role since 2019, is departing and the MPA has posted her position.
Powell previously worked at the State Department, where he served under then-Secretary of State John Kerry and most recently as a senior advisor to deputy secretaries Wendy Sherman, Richard Verma and Victoria Nuland. He previously was an adviser to other public officials including Nancy Pelosi, as well as Alejandro Mayorkas, Penny Pritzker, Eric Garcetti and Antonio Villaraigosa.
Rivkin said in a statement that Powell’s “global policy expertise and his gift for...
- 2/13/2024
- by Ted Johnson
- Deadline Film + TV
The Motion Picture Association has extended Charles Rivkin’s contract as chairman and CEO for three more years.
The decision underscores support for Rivkin’s vision of the MPA as the “voice of the global film, television and streaming industry,” the MPA said in a statement. Based in Washington, D.C., Rivkin has led the entertainment industry’s most prominent lobbying organization since 2018.
“I’m excited to lead the MPA for a third term and to represent iconic member companies that exemplify ingenuity and innovation,” Rivkin said. “As the world’s largest content creators, co-producing and investing in more local productions than ever before, MPA members are constantly pushing the boundaries of storytelling around the globe to delight audiences everywhere, on every available screen. Our members’ films and series are among the most accessible and prominent cultural exports, and they drive the creative economy both in the United States and overseas.
The decision underscores support for Rivkin’s vision of the MPA as the “voice of the global film, television and streaming industry,” the MPA said in a statement. Based in Washington, D.C., Rivkin has led the entertainment industry’s most prominent lobbying organization since 2018.
“I’m excited to lead the MPA for a third term and to represent iconic member companies that exemplify ingenuity and innovation,” Rivkin said. “As the world’s largest content creators, co-producing and investing in more local productions than ever before, MPA members are constantly pushing the boundaries of storytelling around the globe to delight audiences everywhere, on every available screen. Our members’ films and series are among the most accessible and prominent cultural exports, and they drive the creative economy both in the United States and overseas.
- 1/18/2024
- by Diego Ramos Bechara
- Variety Film + TV
The Motion Picture Association has signed CEO and chairman Charles Rivkin to a third three-year contract that will keep him with the MPA through January 2027.
Since his arrival to the film industry lobbying group at the start of 2018, Rivkin has overseen a significant expansion of the organization’s global operations. To reflect that international expansion, the group shorted its longtime name, the Motion Picture Association of America, to just Motion Picture Association in 2019.
In his most recent term, Rivkin and the MPA lobbied for the expansion of tax incentive programs for film productions in several major states, including California, New York, Georgia, New Jersey and Louisiana, as well as in countries like Canada, France and New Zealand, among others.
Rivkin has also spearheaded initiatives such as the lobbying group Streaming Innovation Alliance and the anti-piracy coalition Alliance for Creativity and Entertainment.
“I’m excited to lead the MPA for a...
Since his arrival to the film industry lobbying group at the start of 2018, Rivkin has overseen a significant expansion of the organization’s global operations. To reflect that international expansion, the group shorted its longtime name, the Motion Picture Association of America, to just Motion Picture Association in 2019.
In his most recent term, Rivkin and the MPA lobbied for the expansion of tax incentive programs for film productions in several major states, including California, New York, Georgia, New Jersey and Louisiana, as well as in countries like Canada, France and New Zealand, among others.
Rivkin has also spearheaded initiatives such as the lobbying group Streaming Innovation Alliance and the anti-piracy coalition Alliance for Creativity and Entertainment.
“I’m excited to lead the MPA for a...
- 1/17/2024
- by Jeremy Fuster
- The Wrap
Charles Rivkin’s contract as chairman-ceo of the Motion Picture Association has been renewed for a third term, making him the longest running head of the trade organization since the legendary Jack Valenti.
Rivkin arrived at the MPA in January 2018. One of his first acts was to open up the membership ranks to include Netflix alongside Hollywood’s legacy movie and TV studios. Today, those studios are Disney, Paramount, Sony, Warner Bros. and Universal
“As the world’s largest content creators, co-producing and investing in more local productions than ever before, MPA members are constantly pushing the boundaries of storytelling around the globe to delight audiences everywhere, on every available screen,” Rivkin said. “Our members’ films and series are among the most accessible and prominent cultural exports, and they drive the creative economy both in the United States and overseas.”
Under Rivkin’s leadership, the MPA has grown in terms...
Rivkin arrived at the MPA in January 2018. One of his first acts was to open up the membership ranks to include Netflix alongside Hollywood’s legacy movie and TV studios. Today, those studios are Disney, Paramount, Sony, Warner Bros. and Universal
“As the world’s largest content creators, co-producing and investing in more local productions than ever before, MPA members are constantly pushing the boundaries of storytelling around the globe to delight audiences everywhere, on every available screen,” Rivkin said. “Our members’ films and series are among the most accessible and prominent cultural exports, and they drive the creative economy both in the United States and overseas.”
Under Rivkin’s leadership, the MPA has grown in terms...
- 1/17/2024
- by Pamela McClintock
- The Hollywood Reporter - Movie News
The Motion Picture Association has renewed chairman and CEO Charles Rivkin’s contract for another three-year term.
Rivkin joined the MPA in September 2017 as CEO and, after a transition period, also became chairman in January 2018. The new contract started on Jan. 1, marking his third term in the role.
During his recent tenure, the MPA and studios grappled with the Covid pandemic, and Rivkin worked with local groups on retaining or enhancing production incentive programs in states including New York, California, Georgia, New Jersey and Louisiana. Budget allocations totaled almost $8 billion last year, according to the MPA. The trade association also cited production incentives in other countries, including Australia, Austria, Canada, France, India, Ireland, New Zealand and Spain, as well as progress on creating a framework for a program in Mexico.
Rivkin also played a leading role in creating the new Streaming Innovation Alliance, which is focused on regulatory policy in...
Rivkin joined the MPA in September 2017 as CEO and, after a transition period, also became chairman in January 2018. The new contract started on Jan. 1, marking his third term in the role.
During his recent tenure, the MPA and studios grappled with the Covid pandemic, and Rivkin worked with local groups on retaining or enhancing production incentive programs in states including New York, California, Georgia, New Jersey and Louisiana. Budget allocations totaled almost $8 billion last year, according to the MPA. The trade association also cited production incentives in other countries, including Australia, Austria, Canada, France, India, Ireland, New Zealand and Spain, as well as progress on creating a framework for a program in Mexico.
Rivkin also played a leading role in creating the new Streaming Innovation Alliance, which is focused on regulatory policy in...
- 1/17/2024
- by Ted Johnson
- Deadline Film + TV
Exclusive and Updated: The Motion Picture Association posted a deficit of more than $1.8 million in 2022, while its revenue rose by more than 10%.
According to the latest tax filings to the Internal Revenue Service, the MPA saw an increase in expenses due to salaries and other labor costs, as well as costs associated with investigations.
According to the filing, MPA revenue rose to $74.5 million, from $67.7 million a year earlier, reflecting collection an increased amount of fees and dues collected.
With studios and producers starting to back to a regular schedule of releases due to Covid, the MPA’s film rating service collected $5.7 million, from $4.3 million a year earlier.
Revenue from membership dues also increased to $58.7 million, from $54.9 million a year earlier. There had been a surplus that was carried over to that year, offsetting the dues that otherwise would be collected, per the MPA.
The trade association also saw a boost...
According to the latest tax filings to the Internal Revenue Service, the MPA saw an increase in expenses due to salaries and other labor costs, as well as costs associated with investigations.
According to the filing, MPA revenue rose to $74.5 million, from $67.7 million a year earlier, reflecting collection an increased amount of fees and dues collected.
With studios and producers starting to back to a regular schedule of releases due to Covid, the MPA’s film rating service collected $5.7 million, from $4.3 million a year earlier.
Revenue from membership dues also increased to $58.7 million, from $54.9 million a year earlier. There had been a surplus that was carried over to that year, offsetting the dues that otherwise would be collected, per the MPA.
The trade association also saw a boost...
- 11/22/2023
- by Ted Johnson
- Deadline Film + TV
Update: John Leguizamo and his wife Justine were given choice spots at the White House State Dinner: At the president’s table, seated with figures including Senate Majority Leader Chuck Schumer and Australian Prime Minister Anthony Albanese.
Earlier, Leguizamo told a reporter that he “definitely” would be hitting the campaign trail for Joe Biden in 2024.
Asked about Biden’s outreach to Latino voters, Leguizamo said, “I think he’s doing the right things, which is getting Latin consulatns and talking to Latin experts who tell him how to address us, and make the effort. If you make the effort, we will be there, but you have to make the effort. I think he’s doing all that — him and Kamala Harris as well.”
Previously: The guest list for tonight’s White House State Dinner for Australian Prime Minister Anthony Albanese and partner Jodie Haydon includes a number of names from entertainment and media.
Earlier, Leguizamo told a reporter that he “definitely” would be hitting the campaign trail for Joe Biden in 2024.
Asked about Biden’s outreach to Latino voters, Leguizamo said, “I think he’s doing the right things, which is getting Latin consulatns and talking to Latin experts who tell him how to address us, and make the effort. If you make the effort, we will be there, but you have to make the effort. I think he’s doing all that — him and Kamala Harris as well.”
Previously: The guest list for tonight’s White House State Dinner for Australian Prime Minister Anthony Albanese and partner Jodie Haydon includes a number of names from entertainment and media.
- 10/25/2023
- by Ted Johnson
- Deadline Film + TV
Senate Legislation Would Outlaw Unauthorized AI-Generated Likenesses; SAG-AFTRA Lauds “No Fakes Act”
Four U.S. senators today announced a discussion draft bill aimed at protecting actors, singers and others from having their voice and likeness generated by artificial intelligence. The bipartisan Nurture Originals, Foster Art, and Keep Entertainment Safe Act, or No Fakes Act (read it here), would hold people, companies and platforms liable for producing or hosting such digital replicas.
SAG-AFTRA applauded the announcement today, with President Fran Drescher saying: “A performer’s voice and their appearance are all part of their unique essence, and it’s not ok when those are used without their permission. Consent is key.”
The No Fakes Act would prevent a person from producing or distributing an unauthorized AI-generated replica of an individual to perform in an audiovisual or sound recording without the consent of the individual being replicated. The person creating or sharing the unauthorized replication would be liable for the damages caused by the AI-generated fake.
SAG-AFTRA applauded the announcement today, with President Fran Drescher saying: “A performer’s voice and their appearance are all part of their unique essence, and it’s not ok when those are used without their permission. Consent is key.”
The No Fakes Act would prevent a person from producing or distributing an unauthorized AI-generated replica of an individual to perform in an audiovisual or sound recording without the consent of the individual being replicated. The person creating or sharing the unauthorized replication would be liable for the damages caused by the AI-generated fake.
- 10/12/2023
- by Erik Pedersen
- Deadline Film + TV
A new streaming lobby group, which formed one day before the Writers Guild of America officially ended their 148-day strike, says it is looking to have a collective voice in Washington, D.C. and distinguish itself from big-tech companies. But critics believe it’s preparing for a fight against future government regulation.
While the new Streaming Innovation Alliance (Sia), which includes Netflix, Disney and Max, says the timing with the WGA was coincidental, the move also came two months after the U.S. Senate Commerce Committee voted to advance a bill aimed at protecting children from dangerous or extremist online content, including on streaming services — a law individual streamers have lobbied against.
The Sia, which is spearheaded by Motion Picture Association Chairman and CEO Charles Rivkin, and advised by former U.S. Rep. Fred Upton and former Acting Federal Communications Commission chair Mignon Clyburn, plans to advocate for federal and...
While the new Streaming Innovation Alliance (Sia), which includes Netflix, Disney and Max, says the timing with the WGA was coincidental, the move also came two months after the U.S. Senate Commerce Committee voted to advance a bill aimed at protecting children from dangerous or extremist online content, including on streaming services — a law individual streamers have lobbied against.
The Sia, which is spearheaded by Motion Picture Association Chairman and CEO Charles Rivkin, and advised by former U.S. Rep. Fred Upton and former Acting Federal Communications Commission chair Mignon Clyburn, plans to advocate for federal and...
- 10/10/2023
- by Lucas Manfredi
- The Wrap
The body will push for federal and state laws benefiting the streaming industry.
Streaming service operators including Netflix, Warner Discovery’s Max, Disney, Paramount and Peacock have formed a new US trade organisation to lobby for federal and state policies benefiting the streaming industry.
Other members of the Streaming Innovation Alliance (Sia) include BET+, TelevisaUnivision’s ViX, PlutoTV and AfroLandTV.
Former Republican politician Fred Upton and former Federal Communications Commission member Mignon Clyburn, a Democrat, are acting as senior advisors for the new body. Charles Rivkin, chairman and CEO of Hollywood studios trade group the Motion Picture Association, played a...
Streaming service operators including Netflix, Warner Discovery’s Max, Disney, Paramount and Peacock have formed a new US trade organisation to lobby for federal and state policies benefiting the streaming industry.
Other members of the Streaming Innovation Alliance (Sia) include BET+, TelevisaUnivision’s ViX, PlutoTV and AfroLandTV.
Former Republican politician Fred Upton and former Federal Communications Commission member Mignon Clyburn, a Democrat, are acting as senior advisors for the new body. Charles Rivkin, chairman and CEO of Hollywood studios trade group the Motion Picture Association, played a...
- 9/26/2023
- by John Hazelton
- ScreenDaily
The body will push for federal and state laws benefiting the streaming industry.
Streaming service operators including Netflix, Warner Discovery’s Max, Disney, Paramount and Peacock have formed a new US trade organisation to lobby for federal and state policies benefiting the streaming industry.
Other members of the Streaming Innovation Alliance (Sia) include BET+, TelevisaUnivision’s ViX, PlutoTV and AfroLandTV.
Former Republican politician Fred Upton and former Federal Communications Commission member Mignon Clyburn, a Democrat, are acting as senior advisors for the new body. Charles Rivkin, chairman and CEO of Hollywood studios trade group the Motion Picture Association, played a...
Streaming service operators including Netflix, Warner Discovery’s Max, Disney, Paramount and Peacock have formed a new US trade organisation to lobby for federal and state policies benefiting the streaming industry.
Other members of the Streaming Innovation Alliance (Sia) include BET+, TelevisaUnivision’s ViX, PlutoTV and AfroLandTV.
Former Republican politician Fred Upton and former Federal Communications Commission member Mignon Clyburn, a Democrat, are acting as senior advisors for the new body. Charles Rivkin, chairman and CEO of Hollywood studios trade group the Motion Picture Association, played a...
- 9/26/2023
- by John Hazelton
- ScreenDaily
A new trade group — the Streaming Innovation Alliance — brings together Netflix, Disney, Warner Bros. Discovery, Paramount and other players to promote their interests to politicians and government entities. It marks the first time competing streaming-video providers have banded together in a unified lobbying front.
The launch members of the Streaming Innovation Alliance (website at this link) are: AfroLandTV, America Nu Network, BET+, Discovery+, For Us By Us Network, Max, the Motion Picture Association, MotorTrend+, Netflix, Paramount+, Peacock, PlutoTV, Telemundo, TelevisaUnivision and Vix, Vault and the Walt Disney Co. The Sia will “advocate for federal and state policies that build on the strong, competitive, and pro-consumer market for streaming video,” according to the group.
Companies notably absent from the Streaming Innovation Alliance’s initial roster include Apple, Amazon, Google/YouTube and Roku.
The Streaming Innovation Alliance has tapped two well-known DC leaders as senior advisers: Fred Upton, a Republican who is...
The launch members of the Streaming Innovation Alliance (website at this link) are: AfroLandTV, America Nu Network, BET+, Discovery+, For Us By Us Network, Max, the Motion Picture Association, MotorTrend+, Netflix, Paramount+, Peacock, PlutoTV, Telemundo, TelevisaUnivision and Vix, Vault and the Walt Disney Co. The Sia will “advocate for federal and state policies that build on the strong, competitive, and pro-consumer market for streaming video,” according to the group.
Companies notably absent from the Streaming Innovation Alliance’s initial roster include Apple, Amazon, Google/YouTube and Roku.
The Streaming Innovation Alliance has tapped two well-known DC leaders as senior advisers: Fred Upton, a Republican who is...
- 9/26/2023
- by Todd Spangler
- Variety Film + TV
Major studio streamers are among the inaugural members of a new trade group devoted to advocacy for federal and state policies that impact their services.
The Streaming Innovation Alliance includes a membership roster of Netflix, Max, Paramount+, Disney and Peacock, as well as Afroland.tv, ForUsByUs Network, TelevisaUnivision, VaultAccess and ViX.
The senior advisers include former Rep. Fred Upton, who was chair of the House Energy and Commerce Committee, and former FCC commissioner Mignon Clyburn (D), who served as acting chair of the agency.
Charles Rivkin, chairman and CEO of the Motion Picture Association, played a major role in organizing the alliance.
In a statement, he said, “Streaming provides great value, vast programming choices, and unprecedented options for consumers. The MPA looks forward to working with the Sia and its members to ensure federal and state policy propels this incredible innovation forward – and doesn’t undermine the value and diversity consumers are enjoying today.
The Streaming Innovation Alliance includes a membership roster of Netflix, Max, Paramount+, Disney and Peacock, as well as Afroland.tv, ForUsByUs Network, TelevisaUnivision, VaultAccess and ViX.
The senior advisers include former Rep. Fred Upton, who was chair of the House Energy and Commerce Committee, and former FCC commissioner Mignon Clyburn (D), who served as acting chair of the agency.
Charles Rivkin, chairman and CEO of the Motion Picture Association, played a major role in organizing the alliance.
In a statement, he said, “Streaming provides great value, vast programming choices, and unprecedented options for consumers. The MPA looks forward to working with the Sia and its members to ensure federal and state policy propels this incredible innovation forward – and doesn’t undermine the value and diversity consumers are enjoying today.
- 9/26/2023
- by Ted Johnson
- Deadline Film + TV
Streaming services for the first time will have an organized, unified voice in Washington to both lobby on behalf of consumers and to band together in the face of potential federal regulation.
A new trade organization called the Streaming Innovation Alliance has launched as of Tuesday, September 26 and will represent top streamers, including Netflix, Max, Paramount+, Peacock, all of Disney’s streamers, as well as niche companies Afroland.tv, ForUsByUs Network, TelevisaUnivision, VaultAccess, and ViX. Notably missing from that group: tech giants Amazon and Apple, as well as Roku and Tubi.
The Streaming Innovation Alliance is working closely with the Motion Picture Association (MPA), the trade alliance that represents Hollywood studios with the goal of telling “streaming’s story to state and federal policymakers.” It aims to “drive forward a new era of creativity, opportunity, value, and choice in home and mobile entertainment by advocating for smart policies that will support...
A new trade organization called the Streaming Innovation Alliance has launched as of Tuesday, September 26 and will represent top streamers, including Netflix, Max, Paramount+, Peacock, all of Disney’s streamers, as well as niche companies Afroland.tv, ForUsByUs Network, TelevisaUnivision, VaultAccess, and ViX. Notably missing from that group: tech giants Amazon and Apple, as well as Roku and Tubi.
The Streaming Innovation Alliance is working closely with the Motion Picture Association (MPA), the trade alliance that represents Hollywood studios with the goal of telling “streaming’s story to state and federal policymakers.” It aims to “drive forward a new era of creativity, opportunity, value, and choice in home and mobile entertainment by advocating for smart policies that will support...
- 9/26/2023
- by Brian Welk
- Indiewire
Several major Hollywood streaming services on Tuesday launched a streaming trade coalition, the Streaming Innovation Alliance.
Companies within the alliance include Netflix, Paramount+, Discovery+, Max, Peacock, Disney, BET+, TelevisaUnivision, Telemundo and Pluto TV. The coalition also includes the Motion Picture Association (MPA), ViX, ForUsByUs Network, Vault and Afroland.tv.
Created with the intent to “advocate for federal and state policies that build on the strong, competitive, and pro-consumer market for streaming video,” the alliance has recruited bipartisan policy experts Fred Upton, a former Republican representative who served as chairman of the House Energy and Commerce Committee, and Mignon Clyburn, who served as acting chair of the Federal Communications Commission, as senior advisors.
“Streaming services have opened up a new era of progress for program diversity that is bringing relevant stories and options to historically underserved communities at a record pace while opening doors for production jobs to people of color that have been shut for decades,...
Companies within the alliance include Netflix, Paramount+, Discovery+, Max, Peacock, Disney, BET+, TelevisaUnivision, Telemundo and Pluto TV. The coalition also includes the Motion Picture Association (MPA), ViX, ForUsByUs Network, Vault and Afroland.tv.
Created with the intent to “advocate for federal and state policies that build on the strong, competitive, and pro-consumer market for streaming video,” the alliance has recruited bipartisan policy experts Fred Upton, a former Republican representative who served as chairman of the House Energy and Commerce Committee, and Mignon Clyburn, who served as acting chair of the Federal Communications Commission, as senior advisors.
“Streaming services have opened up a new era of progress for program diversity that is bringing relevant stories and options to historically underserved communities at a record pace while opening doors for production jobs to people of color that have been shut for decades,...
- 9/26/2023
- by Loree Seitz
- The Wrap
Several major streaming services, including Netflix, Max and The Walt Disney Co., have formed a trade alliance to advocate for federal and state policies that benefit the streaming industry.
At launch, other members of the Streaming Innovation Alliance include AfroLandTV, America Nu Network, BET+, discovery+, For Us by Us Network, MPA, MotorTrend+, Paramount+, Peacock, PlutoTV, Telemundo, Televisa Univision, Vault TV and Vix.
Former Republican Rep. Fred Upton and former Democratic acting FCC chair Mignon Clyburn are the senior advisers for the coalition. Charles Rivkin, chairman and CEO of the Motion Picture Association, helped bring the parties together.
“Streaming provides great value, vast programming choices and unprecedented options for consumers. The MPA looks forward to working with the Sia and its members to ensure federal and state policy propels this incredible innovation forward — and doesn’t undermine the value and diversity consumers are enjoying today,” Rivkin said.
The first act of...
At launch, other members of the Streaming Innovation Alliance include AfroLandTV, America Nu Network, BET+, discovery+, For Us by Us Network, MPA, MotorTrend+, Paramount+, Peacock, PlutoTV, Telemundo, Televisa Univision, Vault TV and Vix.
Former Republican Rep. Fred Upton and former Democratic acting FCC chair Mignon Clyburn are the senior advisers for the coalition. Charles Rivkin, chairman and CEO of the Motion Picture Association, helped bring the parties together.
“Streaming provides great value, vast programming choices and unprecedented options for consumers. The MPA looks forward to working with the Sia and its members to ensure federal and state policy propels this incredible innovation forward — and doesn’t undermine the value and diversity consumers are enjoying today,” Rivkin said.
The first act of...
- 9/26/2023
- by Caitlin Huston
- The Hollywood Reporter - Movie News
Sean Penn urged the White House to take a more aggressive approach toward arming Ukraine, telling a crowd at a screening of his film Superpower that those who are influencing U.S. policy “need to get out of the pure caution business.”
“I don’t mind being foolish in saying that I deeply believe, whether Democrat or Republican, if this was an issue that one of the parties chose to commit to, in arming Ukraine, that not only would it be a principal win, but it would be a political win. I think we are hungering for that kind of decisiveness,” Penn told CBS News’ Major Garrett.
“Caution has been very important, humanly and politically … But many times in emergencies, restraint is the enemy of action,” Penn added. “I think that there are influential people, perhaps influential with our president, who they themselves need to be encouraged to get out...
“I don’t mind being foolish in saying that I deeply believe, whether Democrat or Republican, if this was an issue that one of the parties chose to commit to, in arming Ukraine, that not only would it be a principal win, but it would be a political win. I think we are hungering for that kind of decisiveness,” Penn told CBS News’ Major Garrett.
“Caution has been very important, humanly and politically … But many times in emergencies, restraint is the enemy of action,” Penn added. “I think that there are influential people, perhaps influential with our president, who they themselves need to be encouraged to get out...
- 9/15/2023
- by Ted Johnson
- Deadline Film + TV
Update: The Senate’s AI Insight Forum morning session was focused on the potential impact of AI — and what the government should do about its negative effects.
Senate Majority Leader Chuck Schumer (D-ny), who organized the gathering of CEOs, civil rights leaders and other industry reps, told reporters that, in terms of a timeline for legislation, “it can’t be days or weeks, not should it be years. It will be in the general category of months.”
The need for regulation was shared by Elon Musk, who left early, but said afterward that it was “important for us to have a regulator which you can think of us as a referee, to ensure that companies take actions that are safe and that are in the interests of the general public.”
Among the topics discussed during the morning session were open source models, as well as security and privacy.
The president...
Senate Majority Leader Chuck Schumer (D-ny), who organized the gathering of CEOs, civil rights leaders and other industry reps, told reporters that, in terms of a timeline for legislation, “it can’t be days or weeks, not should it be years. It will be in the general category of months.”
The need for regulation was shared by Elon Musk, who left early, but said afterward that it was “important for us to have a regulator which you can think of us as a referee, to ensure that companies take actions that are safe and that are in the interests of the general public.”
Among the topics discussed during the morning session were open source models, as well as security and privacy.
The president...
- 9/13/2023
- by Ted Johnson
- Deadline Film + TV
MPA Chairman Charles Rivkin told lawmakers, tech CEOs and labor groups about the industry’s position on AI at a landmark Senate forum on the technology on Wednesday.
According to remarks released by the MPA, Rivkin told the closed-door session that “my industry welcomes the opportunity to discuss legislation…legislation that seeks to address the downside risks without stifling innovation or compromising on our longstanding democratic ideals – most of all the First Amendment, which our iconic industry depends upon.”
In his remarks, Rivkin did not mention the SAG-AFTRA and WGA strikes, but referred to AI as an issue in the industry.
Rivkin told the forum that “we clearly recognize the legitimate concerns that this new technology presents. We are just beginning to understand both the upside and the downside risks of attempting to conclusively define this nascent technology. And we are working closely with our union and guild partners on this to establish common ground.
According to remarks released by the MPA, Rivkin told the closed-door session that “my industry welcomes the opportunity to discuss legislation…legislation that seeks to address the downside risks without stifling innovation or compromising on our longstanding democratic ideals – most of all the First Amendment, which our iconic industry depends upon.”
In his remarks, Rivkin did not mention the SAG-AFTRA and WGA strikes, but referred to AI as an issue in the industry.
Rivkin told the forum that “we clearly recognize the legitimate concerns that this new technology presents. We are just beginning to understand both the upside and the downside risks of attempting to conclusively define this nascent technology. And we are working closely with our union and guild partners on this to establish common ground.
- 9/13/2023
- by Ted Johnson
- Deadline Film + TV
A gallery of tech industry CEOs, including Tesla/X’s Elon Musk, Meta’s Mark Zuckerberg and Google’s Sundar Pichai, are scheduled to attend a Senate forum on artificial intelligence next month.
They also will be joined by the president of the WGA, Meredith Stiehm, as well as other union leaders, along with Charles Rivkin, the chairman and CEO of the Motion Picture Association. The meeting, organized by Senate Majority Leader Chuck Schumer, comes as AI is an issue in Hollywood’s current labor strife.
Schumer is billing this as the first “AI Insight Forum,” and it is scheduled for the morning of Sept. 13. It’s unclear if all of the attendees will be there in person or appear via videoconference.
Outside of the strike, studios are concerned about the impact of AI on protection of content, while they also do not want to see legislation that hinders their...
They also will be joined by the president of the WGA, Meredith Stiehm, as well as other union leaders, along with Charles Rivkin, the chairman and CEO of the Motion Picture Association. The meeting, organized by Senate Majority Leader Chuck Schumer, comes as AI is an issue in Hollywood’s current labor strife.
Schumer is billing this as the first “AI Insight Forum,” and it is scheduled for the morning of Sept. 13. It’s unclear if all of the attendees will be there in person or appear via videoconference.
Outside of the strike, studios are concerned about the impact of AI on protection of content, while they also do not want to see legislation that hinders their...
- 8/31/2023
- by Ted Johnson
- Deadline Film + TV
Oscar-winning actress Ariana DeBose, Warner Bros. Pictures Group co-chair and CEO Pamela Abdy and nationally recognized trial lawyer Wylie A. Aitken have joined the American Film Institute’s board of trustees, The Hollywood Reporter has learned.
“AFI is the place where artistry and academia meet,” Kathleen Kennedy, the board’s chair, tells THR. “The addition of Pam, Wylie and Ari to the board will further propel our national mandate to inspire, to educate and, ultimately, to drive culture forward.”
The board, which sets AFI’s priorities and guides its national education programs, is already packed with big names. Among them: actors Halle Berry and Michael B. Jordan; filmmakers Steven Spielberg and Ava DuVernay; TV creators Jay Roach and Shonda Rhimes; studio/network chiefs Ted Sarandos and Donna Langley; power-agents Bryan Lourd and Chris Silbermann; the noted academic Jeanine Basinger; MPA chief Charles Rivkin, SAG-AFTRA president Fran Drescher; and Academy of...
“AFI is the place where artistry and academia meet,” Kathleen Kennedy, the board’s chair, tells THR. “The addition of Pam, Wylie and Ari to the board will further propel our national mandate to inspire, to educate and, ultimately, to drive culture forward.”
The board, which sets AFI’s priorities and guides its national education programs, is already packed with big names. Among them: actors Halle Berry and Michael B. Jordan; filmmakers Steven Spielberg and Ava DuVernay; TV creators Jay Roach and Shonda Rhimes; studio/network chiefs Ted Sarandos and Donna Langley; power-agents Bryan Lourd and Chris Silbermann; the noted academic Jeanine Basinger; MPA chief Charles Rivkin, SAG-AFTRA president Fran Drescher; and Academy of...
- 7/26/2023
- by Scott Feinberg
- The Hollywood Reporter - Movie News
Updated, 4:25 Pm: California Gov. Gavin Newsom signed a bill today that extends the state’s $330 million-a-year Film and TV Tax Credit Program for an additional five years. The California Film Commission, which administers the program, says that it will create an estimated 60,000 jobs and $10 billion of investment over that time.
“California’s iconic entertainment industry drives economic growth in communities all across our state,” the governor said. “Over the past years, our Film and Television Tax Credit Program has helped create thousands of good paying jobs, relocated productions to California, and brought billions in new investment to our state. Through the extension of the program, we’ll continue this growth, protect jobs, and push for progress on diversity so workers better represent communities throughout our state.”
Said Colleen Bell, the film commission’s executive director: “Today’s fantastic news regarding California’s Film and TV Tax Credit Program is...
“California’s iconic entertainment industry drives economic growth in communities all across our state,” the governor said. “Over the past years, our Film and Television Tax Credit Program has helped create thousands of good paying jobs, relocated productions to California, and brought billions in new investment to our state. Through the extension of the program, we’ll continue this growth, protect jobs, and push for progress on diversity so workers better represent communities throughout our state.”
Said Colleen Bell, the film commission’s executive director: “Today’s fantastic news regarding California’s Film and TV Tax Credit Program is...
- 7/10/2023
- by David Robb
- Deadline Film + TV
The Motion Picture Association (MPA), the lobbying group that reps the interests of Disney, Netflix, Paramount, Sony Pictures, Universal and Warner Bros. to lawmakers in Washington, D.C. and elsewhere, is bolstering its executive ranks.
Hunter Paletsas, the chief financial officer of tech and IP management firm GoDigital Media Group, has been named the new CFO at the MPA, the organization said on Thursday. He succeeds the MPA’s longtime CFO David England, who retired this year after more than a decade in the role.
The executive will manage and oversee the finances of the trade group, coordinate with member companies and manage the information technology team. Palestas will be based in the Los Angeles office and will report to MPA chief Charles Rivkin, who’s held the top role at the group since 2017.
“Hunter brings extensive experience as a senior financial leader, excelling in driving growth at the convergence of media and technology,...
Hunter Paletsas, the chief financial officer of tech and IP management firm GoDigital Media Group, has been named the new CFO at the MPA, the organization said on Thursday. He succeeds the MPA’s longtime CFO David England, who retired this year after more than a decade in the role.
The executive will manage and oversee the finances of the trade group, coordinate with member companies and manage the information technology team. Palestas will be based in the Los Angeles office and will report to MPA chief Charles Rivkin, who’s held the top role at the group since 2017.
“Hunter brings extensive experience as a senior financial leader, excelling in driving growth at the convergence of media and technology,...
- 6/22/2023
- by Erik Hayden
- The Hollywood Reporter - Movie News
Update: President Joe Biden said that Flamin’ Hot was “the first-ever public screening of a film focused on the Hispanic community at the White House,” just before the Disney+/Hulu project was shown before a crowd of several hundred on the South Lawn.
Biden, First Lady Jill Biden and director Eva Longoria walked out together to make brief remarks to the crowd, who were spread out on blankets and munching on chips and, of course, Flamin’ Hot Cheetos. The movie is the story of Frito Lay janitor Richard Montañez, who claimed to have invented the snack, although the origin story is in dispute. Montañez rose in the ranks at Frito Lay to become a marketing executive and “played a key role in accelerating the growth of our Flamin’ Hot Brand and other brands particularly through his Hispanic marketing efforts,” according to the company.
Biden said that it was “fitting that...
Biden, First Lady Jill Biden and director Eva Longoria walked out together to make brief remarks to the crowd, who were spread out on blankets and munching on chips and, of course, Flamin’ Hot Cheetos. The movie is the story of Frito Lay janitor Richard Montañez, who claimed to have invented the snack, although the origin story is in dispute. Montañez rose in the ranks at Frito Lay to become a marketing executive and “played a key role in accelerating the growth of our Flamin’ Hot Brand and other brands particularly through his Hispanic marketing efforts,” according to the company.
Biden said that it was “fitting that...
- 6/16/2023
- by Ted Johnson
- Deadline Film + TV
Vans Stevenson, the longtime state government affairs executive for the Motion Picture Association, is leaving the organization after 34 years.
Stevenson has served as senior vice president of state government affairs for 25 years and moved to the role of senior adviser of global government affairs when Kathy Bañuelos succeeded him last year.
MPA chairman Charles Rivkin said in a statement that Stevenson “is moving on to his next adventure, but his positive impact on our team, our studios and to the industry at large will be felt for decades to come.”
Vans Stevenson
Stevenson joined the MPA in 1989, and through the years has defended the MPA from state and local laws trying to restrict content. That included a municipal movie rating board in Dallas, Texas in the 1990s, the last such government-run board tied to movie exhibition.
Stevenson also has been a champion of production tax credits, now ubiquitous throughout the country,...
Stevenson has served as senior vice president of state government affairs for 25 years and moved to the role of senior adviser of global government affairs when Kathy Bañuelos succeeded him last year.
MPA chairman Charles Rivkin said in a statement that Stevenson “is moving on to his next adventure, but his positive impact on our team, our studios and to the industry at large will be felt for decades to come.”
Vans Stevenson
Stevenson joined the MPA in 1989, and through the years has defended the MPA from state and local laws trying to restrict content. That included a municipal movie rating board in Dallas, Texas in the 1990s, the last such government-run board tied to movie exhibition.
Stevenson also has been a champion of production tax credits, now ubiquitous throughout the country,...
- 5/31/2023
- by Ted Johnson
- Deadline Film + TV
Director-writer Gina Prince-Bythewood, House Minority Leader Hakeem Jeffries (D-ny) and Mexico City Governor Claudia Sheinbaum Pardo will be the recipients of the Motion Picture Association’s MPA Awards.
The event, to take place in June at the MPA headquarters in Washington, was started last year to honor those who “have made notable contributions to the film, TV and streaming industry,” according to the trade organization.
Prince-Bythewood, receiving the MPA Creator Award, most recently directed The Woman King for Sony’s TriStar Pictures. She has written and directed feature films such as Love & Basketball, The Secret Life of Bees and Beyond The Lights. She and her husband Reggie Rock Bythewood serve as executive producers of the upcoming Disney+ and National Geographic series Genius: MLK/X via their production company Undisputed Cinema.
Jeffries, receiving the Industry Champion Award, is being recognized for ensuring “that the American creative community continues to drive economic...
The event, to take place in June at the MPA headquarters in Washington, was started last year to honor those who “have made notable contributions to the film, TV and streaming industry,” according to the trade organization.
Prince-Bythewood, receiving the MPA Creator Award, most recently directed The Woman King for Sony’s TriStar Pictures. She has written and directed feature films such as Love & Basketball, The Secret Life of Bees and Beyond The Lights. She and her husband Reggie Rock Bythewood serve as executive producers of the upcoming Disney+ and National Geographic series Genius: MLK/X via their production company Undisputed Cinema.
Jeffries, receiving the Industry Champion Award, is being recognized for ensuring “that the American creative community continues to drive economic...
- 5/23/2023
- by Ted Johnson
- Deadline Film + TV
SAG-AFTRA, in partnership with the Motion Picture Association and a host of other industry unions and organizations, has launched the Green Council Initiative to promote eco-responsible entertainment. Founded by SAG-AFTRA President Fran Drescher, the initiative’s top priority is the reduction of single-use plastic on set, on screen and in audience homes, while normalizing the use and depictions of reusables – much like the “Buckle Up Hollywood!” movement pushed to promote seat belt awareness back in the 1990s.
Green Council’s founding members include Drescher, Cate Blanchett, Robert Redford, Meryl Streep, Jeff Bridges, Diane Keaton, Kevin Bacon, Kyra Sedgwick, Salma Hayek, Gloria Estefan, Peter Sarsgaard, Rosario Dawson, Billy Porter, Aida Rodriguez, Jason Momoa, Rachel Bloom, Chris Colfer, David Dastmalchian and Ellen Crawford.
“Tonight the entertainment industry takes the hero’s journey together on behalf of the greater good in solidarity,” Drescher said in announcing the formal launch of the Green Council...
Green Council’s founding members include Drescher, Cate Blanchett, Robert Redford, Meryl Streep, Jeff Bridges, Diane Keaton, Kevin Bacon, Kyra Sedgwick, Salma Hayek, Gloria Estefan, Peter Sarsgaard, Rosario Dawson, Billy Porter, Aida Rodriguez, Jason Momoa, Rachel Bloom, Chris Colfer, David Dastmalchian and Ellen Crawford.
“Tonight the entertainment industry takes the hero’s journey together on behalf of the greater good in solidarity,” Drescher said in announcing the formal launch of the Green Council...
- 5/5/2023
- by David Robb
- Deadline Film + TV
During the pandemic, studios experimented with shrinking the amount of time that their films screened exclusively in cinemas, while spending oceans of money to launch streaming services. But the debt they racked up has sent their share prices plummeting and, now, studios are making more movies for theaters and cutting back on their streaming budgets.
CinemaCon, the annual exhibition industry showcase that is unfolding this week in Las Vegas, couldn’t be happier about the shift in strategy. John Fithian, the head of the National Association of Theatre Owners, the trade group behind the show, touted the new state of play during his speech to the convention, while praising Apple and Amazon for embracing the big screen with movies like “Air” and the upcoming “Killers of the Flower Moon” and “Napoleon.” Both of these companies will reportedly spend more than $1 billion on theatrical films.
“It is now more irrefutable than...
CinemaCon, the annual exhibition industry showcase that is unfolding this week in Las Vegas, couldn’t be happier about the shift in strategy. John Fithian, the head of the National Association of Theatre Owners, the trade group behind the show, touted the new state of play during his speech to the convention, while praising Apple and Amazon for embracing the big screen with movies like “Air” and the upcoming “Killers of the Flower Moon” and “Napoleon.” Both of these companies will reportedly spend more than $1 billion on theatrical films.
“It is now more irrefutable than...
- 4/25/2023
- by Brent Lang
- Variety Film + TV
MPA chief Charlie Rivkin celebrated a rebounding box office across genre and geographies in his annual speech today, telling exhibitors that his group’s major push is to get more films on more screens by encouraging production, tax breaks and “the freedom and agency” globally “for this great industry to do what it does best.”
“Remember last year? We felt the G-force rush of the US Navy’s F-18 Super Hornets soaring into the clouds in Top Gun: Maverick – before the film took the entire world by storm,” he said at his annual address.
“We slipped on our 3D glasses to immerse ourselves in the first global preview of Avatar: The Way of Water. And now it’s surging past $2.3 billion in global ticket sales and hitting a high-water mark as one of the biggest movies of all time. And the hits just kept coming.”
“From the biggest franchise films to the smallest indie gems,...
“Remember last year? We felt the G-force rush of the US Navy’s F-18 Super Hornets soaring into the clouds in Top Gun: Maverick – before the film took the entire world by storm,” he said at his annual address.
“We slipped on our 3D glasses to immerse ourselves in the first global preview of Avatar: The Way of Water. And now it’s surging past $2.3 billion in global ticket sales and hitting a high-water mark as one of the biggest movies of all time. And the hits just kept coming.”
“From the biggest franchise films to the smallest indie gems,...
- 4/25/2023
- by Jill Goldsmith
- Deadline Film + TV
All good things must come to an end.
After serving more than two decades as president of the National Association of Theatre Owners, John Fithian is departing the post on May 1 when he turns over the job to Michael P. O’Leary. He leaves on a high note as the box office shows signs of moving beyond the Covid-19 crisis after a number of fits and starts.
“One of the key themes that will emerge this week is optimism. Our industry is off to an incredible start in 2023. And why are we off to such a great start? Well, the explanation is a simple one: we have more movies to play,” Fithian said in his final state-of-the industry speech at CinemaCon, the marquee show hosted by NATO. “In 2022, we had 71 movies open on 2,000+ screens. This year, we will have more than 100, and new titles are being added at a steady place.
After serving more than two decades as president of the National Association of Theatre Owners, John Fithian is departing the post on May 1 when he turns over the job to Michael P. O’Leary. He leaves on a high note as the box office shows signs of moving beyond the Covid-19 crisis after a number of fits and starts.
“One of the key themes that will emerge this week is optimism. Our industry is off to an incredible start in 2023. And why are we off to such a great start? Well, the explanation is a simple one: we have more movies to play,” Fithian said in his final state-of-the industry speech at CinemaCon, the marquee show hosted by NATO. “In 2022, we had 71 movies open on 2,000+ screens. This year, we will have more than 100, and new titles are being added at a steady place.
- 4/25/2023
- by Pamela McClintock
- The Hollywood Reporter - Movie News
Industry figures pay respects to late Erik Lomis, departing NATO head John Fithian.
In a sentimental state of the industry session at CinemaCon, delegates paid tribute to the late distribution veteran Erik Lomis who died last month, while outgoing NATO head John Fithian was himself the subject of appreciation.
CEO and president Fithian, who has served as theatre owners’ head lobbyist in Washington for more than two decades and received praise from industry figures including James Cameron in a taped message, started his address by recounting a dream in which Lomis was in his corner urging him on in a boxing bout.
In a sentimental state of the industry session at CinemaCon, delegates paid tribute to the late distribution veteran Erik Lomis who died last month, while outgoing NATO head John Fithian was himself the subject of appreciation.
CEO and president Fithian, who has served as theatre owners’ head lobbyist in Washington for more than two decades and received praise from industry figures including James Cameron in a taped message, started his address by recounting a dream in which Lomis was in his corner urging him on in a boxing bout.
- 4/25/2023
- by Jeremy Kay
- ScreenDaily
The National Association of Theatre Owners has found its next leader in Michael P. O’Leary, who will succeed John Fithian as president and CEO.
O’Leary will officially join the NATO team on April 10 in order to allow for a transition period before he officially takes over the leadership reigns on May 1 following CinemaCon, the annual convention for theater owners in Las Vegas.
NATO’s executive board tapped O’Leary for his broad experience in government affairs, lobbying and entertainment. He’s served in senior positions at The Entertainment Software Association, 21st Century Fox, the Motion Picture Association, on Capitol Hill and at the Department of Justice.
“Michael brings with him extensive knowledge and strategic senior leadership, having worked with and led teams within the broader entertainment industry both domestically and internationally,” said Rolando Rodriguez, NATO board chair and chief advisor at theater circuit Marcus Corporation.
“With the help...
O’Leary will officially join the NATO team on April 10 in order to allow for a transition period before he officially takes over the leadership reigns on May 1 following CinemaCon, the annual convention for theater owners in Las Vegas.
NATO’s executive board tapped O’Leary for his broad experience in government affairs, lobbying and entertainment. He’s served in senior positions at The Entertainment Software Association, 21st Century Fox, the Motion Picture Association, on Capitol Hill and at the Department of Justice.
“Michael brings with him extensive knowledge and strategic senior leadership, having worked with and led teams within the broader entertainment industry both domestically and internationally,” said Rolando Rodriguez, NATO board chair and chief advisor at theater circuit Marcus Corporation.
“With the help...
- 3/2/2023
- by Pamela McClintock
- The Hollywood Reporter - Movie News
Term will commence on May 1 after current incumbent John Fithian retires.
Michael P. O’Leary has been named president and CEO of National Association of Theatre Owners (NATO), the organisation said on Thursday (March 2).
O’Leary officially joins NATO on April 10 and will work alongside current incumbent John Fithian heading into CinemaCon (April 24-27). He assumes the post on May 1 after Fithian retires.
The Washington DC-based appointee has served in senior positions at The Entertainment Software Association, 21st Century Fox, the Motion Picture Association, and on Capitol Hill and the Department of Justice.
Rolando Rodriguez, NATO board chairman and senior advisor,...
Michael P. O’Leary has been named president and CEO of National Association of Theatre Owners (NATO), the organisation said on Thursday (March 2).
O’Leary officially joins NATO on April 10 and will work alongside current incumbent John Fithian heading into CinemaCon (April 24-27). He assumes the post on May 1 after Fithian retires.
The Washington DC-based appointee has served in senior positions at The Entertainment Software Association, 21st Century Fox, the Motion Picture Association, and on Capitol Hill and the Department of Justice.
Rolando Rodriguez, NATO board chairman and senior advisor,...
- 3/2/2023
- by Jeremy Kay
- ScreenDaily
California Gov. Gavin Newsom is seeking to make California film and television tax credits refundable in a bid to compete with other states’ programs.
Newsom unveiled this approach in his 2023-2024 proposed budget, released on Tuesday, which looks to to extend the current tax credit program five more years. Under the budget proposal, 330 million would again be earmarked for film and TV tax incentives each year starting in the 2025-2026 fiscal year through the 2030-2031 fiscal year. In a departure from previous years, all applicants to the tax credit program could be entitled to receive refundable tax credits; currently, California film and TV tax credits are non-refundable and non-transferable.
“The proposed budget affirms Governor Newsom’s leadership in ensuring California’s Film and TV Tax Credit Program evolves and continues to deliver on our goal of retaining and growing in-state production,” California Film Commission Executive Director Colleen Bell said in a statement.
Newsom unveiled this approach in his 2023-2024 proposed budget, released on Tuesday, which looks to to extend the current tax credit program five more years. Under the budget proposal, 330 million would again be earmarked for film and TV tax incentives each year starting in the 2025-2026 fiscal year through the 2030-2031 fiscal year. In a departure from previous years, all applicants to the tax credit program could be entitled to receive refundable tax credits; currently, California film and TV tax credits are non-refundable and non-transferable.
“The proposed budget affirms Governor Newsom’s leadership in ensuring California’s Film and TV Tax Credit Program evolves and continues to deliver on our goal of retaining and growing in-state production,” California Film Commission Executive Director Colleen Bell said in a statement.
- 1/10/2023
- by Katie Kilkenny
- The Hollywood Reporter - Movie News
Click here to read the full article.
President Biden hosted French President Emmanuel Macron at the White House for the first state dinner of his presidency.
With France’s love of cinema and the arts, it should come as no surprise that the guest list, which the White House released early Thursday evening, is dominated by people with ties to the entertainment industry, from top executives and directors to actors and agents.
Among the media moguls in attendance were top CEOs, including NBCUniversal CEO Jeff Shell, Warner Bros. Discovery chief David Zaslav, Walt Disney Co. exec Dana Walden, Netflix CEO Ted Sarandos, CAA managing director Bryan Lourd and Apple CEO Tim Cook.
Actors and other talent from in front of the camera were also in ample supply on the guest list, with Julia Louis-Dreyfus, Late Show host Stephen Colbert, Jennifer Garner and Good Morning America‘s Robin Roberts, John Legend,...
President Biden hosted French President Emmanuel Macron at the White House for the first state dinner of his presidency.
With France’s love of cinema and the arts, it should come as no surprise that the guest list, which the White House released early Thursday evening, is dominated by people with ties to the entertainment industry, from top executives and directors to actors and agents.
Among the media moguls in attendance were top CEOs, including NBCUniversal CEO Jeff Shell, Warner Bros. Discovery chief David Zaslav, Walt Disney Co. exec Dana Walden, Netflix CEO Ted Sarandos, CAA managing director Bryan Lourd and Apple CEO Tim Cook.
Actors and other talent from in front of the camera were also in ample supply on the guest list, with Julia Louis-Dreyfus, Late Show host Stephen Colbert, Jennifer Garner and Good Morning America‘s Robin Roberts, John Legend,...
- 12/2/2022
- by Alex Weprin
- The Hollywood Reporter - Movie News
Stephen Colbert, Jennifer Garner, John Legend and Chrissy Teigen and Julia Louis-Dreyfus are among the celebrity names expected at tonight’s White House State Dinner for French President Emmanuel Macron.
The event also is heavy in studio heads and moguls, including Warner Bros. Discovery’s David Zaslav, NBCUniversal’s Jeff Shell, Walt Disney’s Dana Walden and Netflix’s Ted Sarandos, along with Jeffrey Katzenberg and CAA’s Bryan Lourd. Also on the guest list is Charles Rivkin, the MPA chairman and former U.S. ambassador to France, and Sarandos’ wife, producer Nicole Avant, the former U.S. ambassador to the Bahamas.
Other media names include Mika Brzezinski and Joe Scarborough, Olivier Knox, Jon Meacham, and other notable non-government, non-politics guests include Apple’s Tim Cook, Anna Wintour and her guest Baz Luhrmann, developer Jeff Worthe, designer Christian Louboutin and Laurene Powell Jobs.
John Batiste, Colbert’s former bandleader, is...
The event also is heavy in studio heads and moguls, including Warner Bros. Discovery’s David Zaslav, NBCUniversal’s Jeff Shell, Walt Disney’s Dana Walden and Netflix’s Ted Sarandos, along with Jeffrey Katzenberg and CAA’s Bryan Lourd. Also on the guest list is Charles Rivkin, the MPA chairman and former U.S. ambassador to France, and Sarandos’ wife, producer Nicole Avant, the former U.S. ambassador to the Bahamas.
Other media names include Mika Brzezinski and Joe Scarborough, Olivier Knox, Jon Meacham, and other notable non-government, non-politics guests include Apple’s Tim Cook, Anna Wintour and her guest Baz Luhrmann, developer Jeff Worthe, designer Christian Louboutin and Laurene Powell Jobs.
John Batiste, Colbert’s former bandleader, is...
- 12/2/2022
- by Ted Johnson
- Deadline Film + TV
Exclusive: The Motion Picture Association saw an increase in its revenue in 2021, boosted by a rise in membership dues and those from an international anti-piracy coalition.
The industry trade and lobbying organization posted a deficit of 340,291, far less than the 4.2 million shortfall from a year earlier, according to the latest tax filing with the Internal Revenue Service.
Revenue increased to 67.7 million, from 62.9 million a year earlier.
The increase was due to a number of factors, including a rise in the membership dues collected from major studio members. Those rose to 54.9 million, from 51.4 million a year earlier. A spokeswoman said that because of a lower surplus carry forward in 2021, more dues were collected from members. Also impacting revenues were the composition of the membership, as well as member-requested initiatives.
The MPA also reported increased revenue from the Alliance for Creativity and Entertainment, with 5.78 million vs. 4.14 million a year earlier. That was due to additional dues,...
The industry trade and lobbying organization posted a deficit of 340,291, far less than the 4.2 million shortfall from a year earlier, according to the latest tax filing with the Internal Revenue Service.
Revenue increased to 67.7 million, from 62.9 million a year earlier.
The increase was due to a number of factors, including a rise in the membership dues collected from major studio members. Those rose to 54.9 million, from 51.4 million a year earlier. A spokeswoman said that because of a lower surplus carry forward in 2021, more dues were collected from members. Also impacting revenues were the composition of the membership, as well as member-requested initiatives.
The MPA also reported increased revenue from the Alliance for Creativity and Entertainment, with 5.78 million vs. 4.14 million a year earlier. That was due to additional dues,...
- 11/30/2022
- by Ted Johnson
- Deadline Film + TV
Cavea Plus, a streaming service based in the country of Georgia, has joined the anti-piracy coalition Alliance for Creativity and Entertainment.
Formed in 2017 with a a focus on copyright protection and enforcement, the coalition now has 42 members, with a governing board that includes Motion Picture Association members Disney, NBCUniversal, Netflix, Paramount, Sony Pictures, and Warner Bros., along with Amazon and Apple TV+.
Other companies that have joined in the past year include the Latin America-based telecom Tigo, Thailand-based TruVisions, Hong King-based Viu, Qatar-based beIN Sports and Saudi-based Mbc Group.
Cavea Plus is the only legal streaming service in Georgia and was recently launched by the Cavea Cinemas theater chain.
MPA Chairman and CEO Charles Rivkin said in a statement, “Cavea Plus shares Ace’s deep understanding that piracy poses a direct threat to the media and entertainment industry, and we are pleased to welcome them to our global network. Ace...
Formed in 2017 with a a focus on copyright protection and enforcement, the coalition now has 42 members, with a governing board that includes Motion Picture Association members Disney, NBCUniversal, Netflix, Paramount, Sony Pictures, and Warner Bros., along with Amazon and Apple TV+.
Other companies that have joined in the past year include the Latin America-based telecom Tigo, Thailand-based TruVisions, Hong King-based Viu, Qatar-based beIN Sports and Saudi-based Mbc Group.
Cavea Plus is the only legal streaming service in Georgia and was recently launched by the Cavea Cinemas theater chain.
MPA Chairman and CEO Charles Rivkin said in a statement, “Cavea Plus shares Ace’s deep understanding that piracy poses a direct threat to the media and entertainment industry, and we are pleased to welcome them to our global network. Ace...
- 11/21/2022
- by Ted Johnson
- Deadline Film + TV
Click here to read the full article.
Mbc Group, the Saudi-owned Middle East broadcasting giant and the largest media operation in the region, has become the latest company to join the Alliance for Creativity and Entertainment, the Motion Picture Association’s anti-piracy organization, as it gathers steam internationally.
Ace recently added its first Latin American telecommunication film and two Asia-based entertainment companies.
“The addition of Mbc Group to Ace demonstrates the value of continuing to build our membership base and network in key local regions,” said Charles Rivkin, chairman and CEO of the Motion Picture Association and chairman of Ace. “Together we will strengthen our global network and expand the resources and expertise needed to tackle the serious threat piracy poses to media and entertainment companies all over the world.”
Based in Riyadh and majority-owned by the Saudi government, Mbc is a behemoth across the Middle East and north Africa,...
Mbc Group, the Saudi-owned Middle East broadcasting giant and the largest media operation in the region, has become the latest company to join the Alliance for Creativity and Entertainment, the Motion Picture Association’s anti-piracy organization, as it gathers steam internationally.
Ace recently added its first Latin American telecommunication film and two Asia-based entertainment companies.
“The addition of Mbc Group to Ace demonstrates the value of continuing to build our membership base and network in key local regions,” said Charles Rivkin, chairman and CEO of the Motion Picture Association and chairman of Ace. “Together we will strengthen our global network and expand the resources and expertise needed to tackle the serious threat piracy poses to media and entertainment companies all over the world.”
Based in Riyadh and majority-owned by the Saudi government, Mbc is a behemoth across the Middle East and north Africa,...
- 11/14/2022
- by Alex Ritman
- The Hollywood Reporter - Movie News
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