Famed conservationist dies at 91: Public figures we lost this year

Persimmon, a new global indie film and TV distributor, has unveiled its debut slate featuring a diverse range of genres including romance, holiday, mystery, thriller, and true crime. Led by Mackenzie Maguire, formerly of Gravitas Ventures, the Narrative Distribution label aims to deliver emotionally resonant films that connect with audiences. This launch is significant as it introduces fresh storytelling to the market and highlights the importance of heartfelt narratives in today's entertainment landscape.

The excitement is building for the second season of 'Maxton Hall – The World Between Us' as Prime Video has just released a trailer. This popular young adult series, produced by Germany's UFA Fiction and based on the books by Mona Kasten, continues to explore the complex relationship between British public school students Ruby and James. With its engaging storyline and relatable characters, the show has captured the hearts of many, making its return highly anticipated.

Hwang Dong-hyuk, the creator of 'Squid Game', has made a significant move by investing $3 million in TwelveLabs, an AI company that aims to revolutionize entertainment production. This investment is crucial as TwelveLabs develops technology that enhances video metadata, making it easier for creators and editors to work with content. By partnering with various studios and streamers, this initiative could streamline the production process and lead to more innovative storytelling in the industry.

Showtime is making waves in the world of British drama by acquiring two new series, 'The Guest' and 'Coldwater', from ITV Studios. This move comes on the heels of their recent acquisition of the BBC Studios drama 'Reunion'. While many U.S. networks have shied away from British content in recent years, Showtime's bold strategy signals a renewed interest in high-quality international storytelling. This is significant not only for the network but also for the broader landscape of television, as it highlights a potential shift in viewer preferences and the increasing value of diverse narratives.

Discord is stepping up its game with the launch of Arena Quests, a new advertising format that allows brands to sponsor games and reward users based on their playtime. This innovative approach not only enhances user engagement but also provides brands with a unique way to connect with the gaming community. By incentivizing players, Discord is creating a win-win situation where users can enjoy their favorite games while brands gain visibility and interaction. This move could reshape how advertising works in the gaming space, making it more interactive and rewarding.

The NBA Preseason is kicking off with an exciting matchup between the Philadelphia 76ers and the New York Knicks at the Etihad Arena in Abu Dhabi. This game marks the beginning of a thrilling series of preseason games leading up to the regular season, which starts on October 21. Fans can look forward to watching these games online without cable, making it easier than ever to catch the action. This is a great opportunity for basketball enthusiasts to engage with their favorite teams and players as they prepare for the competitive season ahead.