Industry
Indigenous Filmmaking: Cherokee Nation’s Empowering Work in the Industry
Cherokee Film, spearheaded by the Cherokee Nation, leads Oklahoma's film industry with a commitment to authentic Indigenous storytelling. They strive to boost representation and foster sustainable careers for Indigenous storytellers, countering the media's historical lack of visibility and inclusion. Through talent directories, training initiatives, and financial incentives, Cherokee Film is making impactful strides in reshaping the narrative landscape.
Unions
AI and Actors: SAG-AFTRA's Latest Technology Safety Agreement
During the CES technology convention's kickoff, SAG-AFTRA and AI voice tech company Replica Studios introduced a groundbreaking AI voice agreement. Tailored for SAG-AFTRA members, it offers safeguards for venturing into digital voice replication opportunities in AAA video games and interactive media. The agreement addresses storage concerns, performer consent, negotiation rights, and opt-out options, ensuring a comprehensive framework for the use of digital voice doubles.
DEI
New, Diverse Guidelines: The European Academy Expands Member Representation
The European Film Academy has revamped its board, adopting updated guidelines to enhance geographical representation. The new board, featuring representatives from Ireland / U.K., Poland, and Romania, is the most diverse in the Academy's history. Notably, seats for Sámi and Romani filmmakers have been added, further enriching its inclusive composition.
Streaming
Ad-Tier Checkup: Netflix Reports on Their Ad Success
Netflix's ad-supported plan, launched in November 2022, now boasts over 23 million global monthly active users. Remarkably, 85% of subscribers on this tier stream for over two hours daily. This substantial growth, shared by Netflix's President of Advertising, Amy Reinhard, marks a noteworthy increase from just over two months ago when the ad-supported tier had 15 million monthly active users worldwide.
International
Bravo, 2023: Italian Cinema Saw a Strong Rebound Last Year
In a remarkable resurgence, the Italian box office recorded a 62% revenue surge in 2023, reaching €495 million. Cinetel data, published by Anica, reveals a 59% increase in admissions to 70.5 million. Despite strong competition from Hollywood giants like Barbie and Oppenheimer, a local film titled There’s Still Tomorrow emerged as the top-grossing film of the year in Italy.
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