Latest news with #originalcontent
Yahoo
2 days ago
- Entertainment
- Yahoo
In Spain, Warner Exec Explains the HBO Max Rebrand
Warner Bros. Discovery's decision to return to the HBO Max brand for its streaming service was the elephant in the room that Jose Maria Caro, director of Max Local Original Production at WBD, Spain, addressed right at the start of his appearance at the Conecta Fiction & Entertainment in Cuenca, Spain on Tuesday. 'Many of you are asking what has happened,' he said, addressing the industry audience directly, showing a slide with an advertising message with the slogan 'Max becomes HBO Max.' More from The Hollywood Reporter Scarlett Johansson, Jonathan Bailey and 'Jurassic World Rebirth' Cast Stun London at World Premiere Eurovision Drama and 'The Nameless': Movistar Plus+ Exec Touts Focus on Event Programming Lewis Hamilton Signed Off on Brad Pitt and Damson Idris' Driving in 'F1: The Movie' 'What does it mean? In terms of the content, we can't lose the value of HBO,' the top executive explained. 'It contributes much value.'Caro highlighted that the brand also represents the core 'editorial line' and focus areas for the company when greenlighting original content. 'The creator is the pillar from which we begin a project,' he shared, emphasizing that ideally that a creator is 'someone with great ambition who can make a difference in the market.' Developing appealing original characters is also in focus for his team, he shared. 'We are also looking for new characters,' the exec said. Highlighting that HBO Max is about quality rather than volume of original fare, Caro also reiterated WBD's commitment to local originals. 'Without local productions, we are not going to reach the local spectators,' he explained. If they also travel, that is a wonderful bonus, he added. Originally, the WBD streaming service launched as HBO Max in 2020. Then, in 2023, the company controversially changed the name to simply Max — ditching the venerable network brand name. Ahead the company's mid-May upfront presentation in New York at Madison Square Garden, WBD president and CEO David Zaslav unveiled though that the name will be changed back to HBO Max. The powerful growth we have seen in our global streaming service is built around the quality of our programming,' he said in a statement back then. 'Today, we are bringing back HBO, the brand that represents the highest quality in media, to further accelerate that growth in the years ahead.' Best of The Hollywood Reporter How the Warner Brothers Got Their Film Business Started Meet the World Builders: Hollywood's Top Physical Production Executives of 2023 Men in Blazers, Hollywood's Favorite Soccer Podcast, Aims for a Global Empire
The Independent
4 days ago
- Entertainment
- The Independent
Amanda Seyfried calls for ‘more original' movies amid Mamma Mia 3 talk
Amanda Seyfried expressed her frustration with the prevalence of sequels in Hollywood, stating a preference for "original content" which she views as "scary and brave." Seyfried acknowledged the financial motivation behind sequels but admitted she would "do Mamma Mia! 3 in a heartbeat." Seyfried's remarks were made during an interview with Rachel Brosnahan, where they discussed the upcoming Superman movie and the potential for a "Barbenheimer"-like cultural phenomenon this summer. Brosnahan, who plays Lois Lane in the new Superman film, agreed that she would return for a sequel. Seyfried also revealed that she is working on a sequel to the 2009 cult horror-comedy Jennifer's Body, despite her co-star Megan Fox 's character's death in the original film.
Yahoo
09-06-2025
- Entertainment
- Yahoo
Australia's Pixel Zoo Animation Studios Launches L.A.-Based Original IP Unit Pixel Labs (EXCLUSIVE)
Australia's Pixel Zoo Animation Studios, which has done service work for leading global brands such as Bratz and L.O.L. – Surprise!, is moving into original content production with the launch of a new division, Pixel Labs, and has tapped Emmy Award-winning kids TV veteran Josh Fisher to lead its development efforts. Fisher will oversee Pixel Labs from a new Los Angeles office, marking the Brisbane-based studio's first expansion into the U.S. The announcement was shared with Variety by Pixel Zoo founder and CEO Paul Gillett and head of studio Sebastian Gonzalez. More from Variety Adult Animation, Anime's Rising Influence Lead Women in Animation's 2025 Annecy World Summit Lineup (EXCLUSIVE) Dandelooo Cinéma Acquires Global Rights to 'My Life in Versailles - The Movie' Ahead of Annecy Premiere Live-Action 'How To Train Your Dragon' Among Additions to Annecy Lineup Known for its high-quality animation services for global clients, including Hasbro, MGA Entertainment, Spin Master, eOne and Moonbug Entertainment, Pixel Zoo is part of MGA Studios. The launch of Pixel Labs signals a shift toward creating its own intellectual property across film, television and digital platforms. 'We're excited to broaden our client business with the launch of Pixel Labs,' said Gillett. 'The new division, which encourages artists and storytellers to push creative boundaries to bring new original worlds and stories to life, furthers MGA Studios' vision of creating bold, global franchises that spark young kids' imaginations both on and off the screen.' Fisher brings more than two decades of experience in children's content. He previously worked at Netflix as Senior Manager, Kids and Family, where he oversaw series like 'Go, Dog, Go,' 'Daniel Spellbound,' 'Action Pack' and 'Super Monsters.' He has also held executive roles at WildBrain, Spin Master and Brandissimo!, where he led the NFL's global youth strategy. 'I'm thrilled to be partnering with Paul, Seb and the incredibly talented and nimble team at Pixel Zoo,' said Fisher. 'We're excited to be working with a variety of talent around the globe on a strong slate of film, television and digital/YouTube projects designed to reach young audiences wherever they engage.' Gonzalez added, 'We are delighted to be working with Josh, whose creativity and vision have been central to this new venture. We already have a handful of co-productions in the works which are a mix of our IP and projects that have come to us from other creators around the world.' Pixel Labs currently has several projects in development: 'The Secret Explorers,' A CG-animated action-adventure series for kids aged 4–7 based on the bestselling book series, co-produced with Spain's Liquid Rock. The show follows a global team of young heroes who use teamwork and tech to solve real-world problems. MGA Entertainment is developing a toy line and YouTube strategy. 'You Wish,' Based on Jeff Victor's IDW-published graphic novel, this story follows a girl who discovers she's half-genie and sets off on a magical journey to rescue her mother. Victor is consulting on the film and TV adaptations. 'Fixie Pixies,' Created by Corey Powell ('Do Re & Mi') and Aaron Simpson ('L'il Stompers'), this animated series follows three magical pixies who renovate miniature fantasy homes while solving quirky household dilemmas. 'Kitty Witch,' An original show from Australian creator Samuel Keene about a girl whose kitten turns out to be part of a secret coven of cat witches. Pixel Labs aims to grow its original slate through co-productions, content partnerships and adaptations of books and comics into screen formats. Best of Variety What's Coming to Netflix in June 2025 New Movies Out Now in Theaters: What to See This Week 'Harry Potter' TV Show Cast Guide: Who's Who in Hogwarts?
Yahoo
08-06-2025
- Entertainment
- Yahoo
Netflix New Releases: The Best Shows & Movies to Watch in June
Netflix is sharing a never-before-seen glimpse at its June 2025 streaming slate, and it's even better than expected. The list is full of great picks, from date night classics like Pride & Prejudice (last call!) to TV shows for teens and kids. There's also plenty of great family-friendly movies like The Legend of Zorro, Dune (1984), Now You See Me and The Theory of Everything. However, the real showstoppers are all the new original titles. While there are multiple debuts—like Mercy for None—there are also several shows that are returning for new seasons, like Squid Game, Ginny & Georgia and America's Sweethearts: Dallas Cowboys Cheerleaders. Keep reading for my top picks from Netflix's new releases, followed by a complete list of TV shows and movies that are coming to the streaming service beginning in June. Premiere date: June 27 Ever since it burst onto the scene in 2021, Squid Game has captivated viewers with its brutal, fictional game show that pits desperate contestants against each other in a fight to the death. Season 2 left several characters hanging off cliffs—Gi-hun's friend is dead, Jun-ho survives his brother's assassination attempt. Season 3 promises to be even more violent than the second as Gi-hun attempts to end the games once and for all in Squid Game's final season. Learn more Premiere date: June 5 Often compared to the masterpiece that is Gilmore Girls, Ginny & Georgia has delighted viewers for the past two seasons following the antics of a mother-daughter duo attempting to settle into New England life. Season 3 drops on June 5, and starts with a literal bang—Ginny is arrested for murder at her own wedding. Learn more Premiere date: June 6 PureWow Associate Editor of News & Entertainment, Nakeisha Campbell, tells me she has her eyes on this Italian thriller, saying, "I'm personally looking forward to that one because I'm a sucker for suspenseful crime dramas." The series follows Sara, a retired secret agent, who reenters the field after her son's murder. As she hunts for clues, Sara soon finds herself entangled in a web of sinister crimes. Learn more Premiere date: June 18 When the first season aired last year, America's Sweethearts: Dallas Cowboys Cheerleaders was mired in controversy. But it's back for season two, following a new crop of hopeful would-be cheerleaders as they compete for coveted spots on one of the most famous squads in the country. Learn more June 1The AmericanBarbarianBee MovieThe BirdsThe Blues BrothersThe Devil's OwnDune (1984)The EqualizerFamily PlotFocusFrenzyThe Great OutdoorsHitchcockHopThe Legend of ZorroThe Man Who Knew Too MuchNeighborsNow You See MeNow You See Me 2The Nutty ProfessorPokémon The Series: XYPokémon The Series: XY: XY: Kalos QuestPokémon The Series: XY: XYZRear WindowThe Theory of EverythingThe TownU-571UsVertigo June 3Sara - Woman in the Shadows (Netflix original series) June 4Criminal Code: Season 2 (Netflix original series) Eva Lasting: Season 3 (Netflix original series) Power Moves with Shaquille O'Neal (Netflix original series) June 5Barracuda Queens: Season 2 (Netflix original series) Ginny & Georgia: Season 3 (Netflix original series Tires: Season 2 (Netflix original series) June 6K.O. (Netflix original movie) Mercy For None (Netflix original series) TYLER PERRY'S STRAW (Netflix original movie) The Survivors (Netflix original series) June 7Boys on the Side Piece by Piece June 9The Creature Cases: Chapter 5 (Netflix original series) *Family-friendly option June 10Families Like Ours (Netflix original series) Trainwreck: The Astroworld Tragedy (Netflix original documentary) June 11Aniela (Netflix original series) Cheers to Life (Netflix original movie) Cocaine Air: Smugglers at 30,000 Ft. (Netflix original documentary) Our Times (Netflix original movie) Titan: The OceanGate Disaster (Netflix original documentary) June 12The Fairly OddParents: A New Wish: Season 2 FUBAR: Season 2 (Netflix original series) Plane June 13Kings of Jo'Burg: Season 3 (Netflix original series) June 14Grey's Anatomy: Season 21 June 16The Last Witch Hunter June 17Justin Willman: Magic Lover (Netflix comedy special) Kaulitz & Kaulitz: Season 2 (Netflix original series) Scandal: Seasons 1-7 Trainwreck: Mayor of Mayhem (Netflix original documentary) June 18AMERICA'S SWEETHEARTS: Dallas Cowboys Cheerleaders: Season 2 (Netflix original series) Rosario Tijeras: Season 4 (Netflix original series) Somebody Feed Phil: Season 8 (Netflix original series) YOLANTHE (Netflix original series) June 19The Waterfront (Netflix original series) June 20KPop Demon Hunters (Netflix original movie) *Family-friendly option Olympo (Netflix original series) Semi-Soeter (Netflix original movie) June 22The Intern June 24Steph Tolev: Filth Queen (Netflix comedy special) Trainwreck: Poop Cruise (Netflix original documentary) June 25The Ultimatum: Queer Love: Season 2 (Netflix original series) June 27Pokémon Horizons: Season 2—The Search for Laqua Part 3 (Netflix original series) Squid Game: Season 3 (Netflix original series) Want all the latest entertainment news sent right to your inbox? Click here. All the Details on 'Virgin River' Season 6—Including the Cast, Release Date & More
Entrepreneur
12-05-2025
- Business
- Entrepreneur
Why AI Makes Your Brand Voice More Valuable Than Ever
By Elle Morgan Edited by Chelsea Brown May 12, 2025 In a world where content is easier to create than ever, the brands that win will be those with something real to say. Opinions expressed by Entrepreneur contributors are their own. The volume is deafening. We're living in a content gold rush. Blog posts, sales decks, video scripts, entire product launch campaigns — AI can produce them all in seconds. It's tempting to think we've solved the problem of content creation. But a harder truth is emerging for anyone paying attention: Sameness is the new silence. Open your inbox. Browse LinkedIn. Run a Google search. You'll notice it. Everything sounds right. But very little feels right. The writing is polished, the structure is tight, and the value props are clear. Yet, very little of it stands out. That's not a production problem. That's a meaning problem. And it's exactly why original, human-centered content (what's being called "OG content") is becoming the most valuable differentiator a brand can own. Related: This Is the Well-Kept Secret to Writing Compelling Original Content When speed becomes a commodity, voice becomes a moat AI is making content easier, faster and cheaper. That's not the threat. That's the floor. The real risk is what happens when every company uses the same tools, trained on the same data, answering the same prompts. It's how you end up with a sea of content that's technically correct and strategically forgettable. Which brings us to the paradox: In an age of AI, human creativity becomes more valuable, not less. Your brand voice. Your founder's story. The hard-won lessons behind your product roadmap. These aren't just nice-to-haves. They're irreplicable assets, uniquely yours and uniquely defensible. Consider the brands you trust today. They aren't winning because they publish more. They're winning because they say something real. Something that reflects who they are, why they exist and how they deliver. AI can scale your content. But only you can shape your story. The algorithm shift — from SEO to AIO Search is changing. Fast. Large Language Models like Gemini, Claude and ChatGPT are beginning to replace traditional Google queries for high-intent users. And they're doing something SEO never could: synthesizing insights across sources, not just surfacing links. That means your content is competing not only on page one but also for visibility in the summary. As Sydney Sloan said in a recent keynote, "We're entering the age of AIO (AI Optimization). Not just writing for humans, but writing in a way that AI recognizes as uniquely valuable." So, how do you make your content stand out in that world? You go back to what the machines can't fake: Personal perspective Proprietary data Polarizing takes Firsthand experience Original content isn't just good brand practice. It's an AI visibility strategy. Case in point: Letterdrop vs. the rest Take Letterdrop, an AI-powered content ops tool. On paper, it's one of dozens in a crowded market. But scan their content library, and you'll see something different. Their founder, Parthi Loganathan, doesn't just publish thought leadership. He publishes field notes. Real lessons from helping GTM teams streamline content production and align with sales. The result? Top-ranking pages across competitive keywords and a LinkedIn presence outperforming larger players. Why? Because the content isn't just optimized. It's owned. That's the future. AI can give you velocity. But velocity without voice is noise. Related: How to Handle Content Saturation — A Guide to Standing Out in a Sea of Information Why your story matters more than your stack Every brand talks about differentiation. Few actually demonstrate it. Especially when growth slows, budgets tighten, and marketers are asked to justify every dollar spent. It's during those moments that brand building often takes a back seat. But here's the truth: When the market gets more crowded, your point of view becomes your most critical asset. Not your features. Not your pricing model. Your belief system. Above all, people buy from brands they believe in. That belief is built over time, through consistency, conviction and candor. It's built when you show up, not with recycled tips or generic advice, but with your truth. The messy, valuable, uniquely lived truth that can only come from your team, your journey and your customers. OG content is built, not batched Let's be clear: There's nothing wrong with AI-generated content. In fact, the world's best marketers are using it every day to brainstorm, summarize and repurpose. But the most effective content engines start with something deeper: original inputs. Think of it as a flywheel: You publish real stories: customer wins, product bets, founder philosophies. You turn those into long-form content, then atomize it across channels. You use AI to scale distribution, but the core insight stays human. This approach doesn't just improve quality. It protects brand equity. Because in a world where content is commoditized, the most scarce (and valued) resource isn't speed. It's substance. The ROI of voice: What the data says 91% of B2B buyers say they're more likely to engage with brands that publish content that's both educational and original Posts with firsthand experience or personal POVs see up to 4x more engagement on LinkedIn than generic tips or how-tos Companies that lead with values-forward messaging grow 2.5x faster, according to Edelman's Trust Barometer These aren't just vanity metrics. They're signals of resonance. Because when everyone is talking, the brands breaking through the noise will be those speaking from experience. What comes next? So, where do we go from here? The future isn't content or AI. It's content and AI: grounded in truth, scaled with intelligence and delivered with care. As LLMs evolve, expect three shifts: Narrative equity will become the new SEO — original frameworks, coined terms and lived expertise will rise to the top of AI summaries Brand as newsroom will reemerge — not just content calendars, but editorial ops that source stories from across your org Founder and employee-led content will outperform polished brand posts — people want faces, not logos In this new world, volume isn't the variable. Voice is. Related: How to Be Interesting When Everything Has Already Been Said Final word: Real > robotic There's the famous line from author and optimist, Simon Sinek, that bears repeating: "People don't buy what you do. They buy, why do you do it?" That truth has never been more urgent. AI can replicate tone. It can mimic structure. But it can't fake care. And it certainly can't tell your story for you. So, write the post your intern couldn't. Publish the insight your competitor won't. Share the lesson your customer needs. Because the brands that invest in originality today will own the conversation tomorrow. Not just in the feed. But in the hearts and minds of the people who matter most.
