LISTEN: Box Office Yawns as ‘Tron: Ares,’ ‘Roofman’ and ‘Kiss of the Spider Woman’ Disappoint; What’s Making Waves at Mipcom

At Mipcom, Sony Pictures Television chair Keith Le Goy expressed optimism about the future of screen content, highlighting anime and video games as key areas for growth. This shift reflects a broader trend in the entertainment industry, where traditional media is increasingly looking to these dynamic forms of storytelling to engage audiences. By focusing on these popular genres, Sony aims to tap into a vibrant market that resonates with fans worldwide, potentially leading to innovative content and new revenue streams.

Banijay Entertainment is making waves by announcing the launch of 10 new pilot projects at Mipcom, as shared by CEO Marco Bassetti. This initiative taps into the creator economy in France and the U.K., leveraging previously unused intellectual property from their catalog. Bassetti views this as a valuable opportunity to experiment and potentially expand their offerings, which could reshape the entertainment landscape and provide fresh content for audiences.

Mediawan Pictures' acquisition of Brad Pitt's Plan B Entertainment has significantly boosted its profile in the U.S. market, according to CEO Elisabeth d'Arvieu at MIPCOM. This strategic move not only marks a pivotal moment for Mediawan but also highlights the growing influence of French media companies in Hollywood. The deal, which secured 60% of Plan B, is seen as a key step in establishing Mediawan as a formidable player in the competitive film industry.

ITV Studios is off to a fantastic start at Mipcom, announcing that their new dramas 'Coldwater,' featuring Andrew Lincoln, and the thriller 'The Guest' have been sold to numerous territories. This is significant as it highlights the growing demand for quality television content and showcases ITV's ability to attract international interest, setting the stage for a successful market presence.

Spain is making waves in the global entertainment industry by showcasing its creative talent as a powerhouse for hit content. At Mipcom, Parrot Analytics and ICEX revealed data highlighting Spain's efficiency and reliability in producing popular non-English streaming content, which is crucial for diversifying the media landscape in Europe and Latin America. This recognition not only boosts Spain's cultural influence but also opens up new business opportunities for local creators.

At Mipcom, BBC Studios celebrated its successful partnership with YouTube, highlighting how they've effectively engaged their audiences. Digital SVP Jasmine Dawson and YouTube's EMEA boss Pedro Pina discussed their collaboration, showcasing how both companies have navigated the competitive landscape to connect with fans. This partnership is significant as it demonstrates the evolving dynamics of media consumption and the importance of strategic alliances in reaching diverse audiences.

NBCUniversal Formats is making waves at MIPCOM by promoting the return of 'On Brand,' a reality-business-competition show hosted by Jimmy Fallon and featuring Bozoma Saint John. Their presence at Cannes Lions earlier this year helped garner support from advertising professionals, and now, as the show launches on NBC in the U.S., the international format sales team is eager to expand its reach. This matters because it highlights the growing intersection of entertainment and business, showcasing how shows like 'On Brand' can engage audiences while also appealing to advertisers.

Banijay's recent acquisition of the Netherlands-based creator label Werktitel marks a significant move in the evolving creator economy. Announced at MIPCOM in Cannes, this deal highlights the growing importance of creators in the media landscape, as Banijay aims to enhance its portfolio and adapt to changing market dynamics. This acquisition not only strengthens Banijay's position but also reflects a broader trend where traditional media companies are increasingly investing in creator-driven content.

Exciting news for fans of comedy legend Chevy Chase! Propagate Content has teamed up with Sky to co-produce an authorized yet unfiltered documentary titled 'I’m Chevy Chase and You’re Not.' Directed by two-time Emmy Award winner Marina Zenovich, this film promises to offer a unique glimpse into Chase's life and career. Set to premiere on Sky Documentaries in early 2026, this collaboration highlights the growing interest in authentic storytelling in the entertainment industry.

ITV Studios has secured an exciting overall deal with renowned Nordic reality show creators Karsten Bartholin and Kenneth Kristensen, who are launching their new company, Banjo Formats. This partnership aims to develop innovative and commercially viable reality formats that resonate on a global scale. Announced on the opening day of the Mipcom content market, this collaboration is significant as it highlights ITV's commitment to expanding its portfolio in the competitive reality TV landscape, promising fresh content for audiences worldwide.

The upcoming series 'Raza Brava,' created by International Emmy winner Hernán Caffiero, is generating excitement as it heads to Mipcom. This four-part series is the first fictional portrayal of a Latin American soccer fan club, showcasing the passion and culture surrounding soccer in the region. Its unique perspective not only highlights the fervor of fans but also represents a significant step in Latin American storytelling, making it a noteworthy addition to the global television landscape.

The microdrama trend is gaining global traction, with AR showcasing a diverse range of content at Mipcom. This is significant as AR taps into the booming $7 billion Chinese and $4 billion international short-form content markets, boasting a library of 1,000 titles. Their top programs have amassed over 10 billion views, highlighting the growing popularity and potential of microdramas worldwide.

Rockmond Dunbar, known for his role in the TV series '9-1-1', is heading to trial over his dismissal from the show, which he claims was due to his religious beliefs against the COVID-19 vaccine. This case highlights the ongoing debates around vaccine mandates and personal beliefs in the workplace, making it a significant moment in the intersection of health policy and individual rights.

Sarah Ferguson recently expressed her displeasure regarding Prince Harry and Meghan Markle's decision to announce their baby news during Princess Eugenie's wedding. This incident highlights ongoing tensions within the royal family and raises questions about the appropriateness of such personal announcements during significant family events.

Lauren Graham recently shared a heartfelt letter from Diane Keaton, written shortly before Keaton's passing at the age of 79. This touching tribute highlights the profound influence Keaton had on Graham's life and career, showcasing the deep bond between the two actresses. It serves as a reminder of the lasting impact that mentors and icons can have on our journeys, making this revelation not just a personal moment for Graham, but a celebration of Keaton's legacy in the entertainment industry.

Fans of 'Stranger Things' have something to look forward to as the final season is set to premiere soon. Co-creator Ross Duffer has revealed the actual runtimes for the first volume of episodes, which will be available on November 26. This announcement builds excitement for the series' conclusion, giving viewers a glimpse of what to expect in terms of episode length and storytelling depth.

Kris Jenner recently opened up about her special way of bonding with her son Rob Kardashian, emphasizing the importance of one-on-one time with each of her six children. This personal touch not only strengthens their family ties but also highlights the unique relationships she nurtures with each child. In a world where family dynamics can be complex, Kris's approach serves as a reminder of the value of dedicated time spent together, making it a heartwarming topic for fans and followers alike.

Kate Middleton recently entered 'self-preservation mode' during a royal walkabout with Prince Harry and Meghan Markle. This situation highlights the ongoing tensions within the royal family, drawing public attention to their dynamics. Understanding these interactions is important as they reflect the complexities of family relationships in the public eye.