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Industry
Skydance-Paramount Merger Finalized in $8B Deal
David Ellison’s Skydance Media has completed its $8 billion merger with Paramount Global, forming Paramount, a Skydance Corporation. The new entity will undergo major restructuring, leadership shifts, and a tech-focused overhaul to streamline operations.
International
Low-Budget Film Applications Surge With New UK Tax Credit
Applications for BFI certification from films with budgets under £20 million rose 27% in the first half of 2025, driven by the UK’s new Independent Film Tax Credit. The increase signals a strong rebound in low-budget filmmaking amid wider industry challenges.
Streaming
ESPN To Launch Standalone Streaming Service This August
Disney's ESPN will debut its standalone streaming platform on August 21, 2025, offering full access to its linear channels and premium content, including NFL and WWE, for $29.99 per month.
Awards
BAFTA Expands Voting and Embraces Global TV for 2026 Awards
For the first time, all 6,000 BAFTA members can vote in the international category of its Television Awards. New rule changes for the 2026 ceremonies aim to boost global participation and recognize international co-productions.
Movie Theaters
AMC Theatres Plans To Cut Lengthy Preshows After Studio Pushback
Responding to criticism from major studios, AMC Theatres is working to shorten its ad-heavy pre-movie content, possibly by year’s end, as long runtimes are prompting audiences to skip trailers and arrive late.
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