Don’t forget to check out the podcast version of our weekly Friday Five blog. Listen in your car, at your desk, and anywhere you take your podcasts. To subscribe, visit our profiles on Spotify and Apple Podcasts.
Unions
WGA Tentative Deal Offers Record Health Contribution
The WGA announced a tentative deal with studios, including a record $321 million contribution to its health plan from the AMPTP. The four-year contract, the longest in guild history, also boosts streaming residuals, includes annual rate increases, and keeps AI discussions ongoing. Members will vote on ratification from April 16 to 24.
Film Festival
Cannes 2026 Focuses on Global Auteurs
Cannes 2026 will spotlight international auteurs, featuring directors like Farhadi, Almodóvar, Kore-eda, and Hamaguchi in competition. Hollywood studio films will have a notably minimal presence this year.
Box Office
‘Super Mario Galaxy’ Breaks Global Box Office Records
Universal’s Super Mario Galaxy movie launched to an estimated $372.5 million worldwide over Easter weekend. That includes $190.1 million domestically and $182.4 million overseas, making it the biggest debut since Avatar: Fire and Ash and the fifth-largest animated opening ever.
Industry
Paramount Secures Financing Ahead of Warner Bros. Discovery Merger
Paramount has finalized the syndication of its bridge facility and locked in permanent financing from 18 lenders to back its planned merger with Warner Bros. Discovery. This follows last week’s $24 billion in equity investments from Middle East investors, with the deal expected to close in the third quarter.
Digital
Independent Animation Thrives on YouTube
A new YouTube report shows independent digital animation is booming. Young viewers are increasingly choosing creator-led series over studio productions, with 60% saying they enjoy independent work as much or more than major studio content.
Want an even more convenient way to stay in the know? Get Friday Five sent right to your inbox each week by signing up for our direct newsletter below.
