Producers Stuck In “Doom Loop” Over “Conservative” Streamer Demands, Says Banijay EMEA Scripted Chief – MIA Market

The Italian audiovisual sector has reached impressive revenues of €16.3 billion ($19 billion) in 2024, according to the annual APA report presented at the MIA Market in Rome. This growth, driven by a 9% increase in both linear and streaming TV, highlights the sector's robust performance, outpacing Italy's GDP growth with an annual expansion rate of 4.6%. This positive trend not only reflects the resilience of the industry but also underscores its significance in the broader economic landscape.

Banijay Entertainment is making a significant move by acquiring the international rights to the popular obstacle course format, Ninja Warrior, originally created by TBS in Japan. This deal allows Banijay to distribute the show globally, except in the U.S., Asia, France, Germany, and Poland. This expansion is exciting as it opens up new opportunities for audiences around the world to enjoy this thrilling competition, showcasing athleticism and determination.

Dramas from public service broadcasters in the Nordics are gaining traction, but the pressure is mounting on scripted commissioners due to various market challenges. With global investment declining and local budgets tightening, there's an urgent need to adapt strategies to engage younger audiences and meet diverse viewer demands. This shift is crucial for the sustainability of Nordic dramas in a competitive landscape.

This year's MIA Market in Rome is showcasing exciting new projects from notable filmmakers like Xavier Dolan, Andrew Leung, and Eléa Gobbe-Mévellec. Running from October 6 to 10, the event highlights innovative storytelling and artistic vision, making it a significant platform for the film industry. With such diverse talent on display, it promises to inspire and engage audiences and industry professionals alike.

The animated sci-fi dramedy 'Ancient China of Mars' is making waves at Rome's MIA Market, showcasing a unique story set in a dystopian future. The series revolves around a struggling Chinese restaurant on a space station orbiting Mars, where the pursuit of dreams takes center stage. This offbeat comedy not only entertains but also highlights the immigrant experience, making it a timely and relevant narrative in today's world.

The MIA Market in Rome has kicked off its 11th edition, showcasing international films and series, but the event is overshadowed by Italian Culture Undersecretary Lucia Borgonzoni's strong criticism of Donald Trump's proposed tariffs on foreign-made films. She described the idea as 'insane,' highlighting concerns that such tariffs could harm cultural exchange and the film industry. This situation is significant as it reflects ongoing tensions in international trade and its potential impact on the arts.

Marco Bassetti, the head of Banijay Entertainment, is set to receive the Variety Vanguard Award at the Mipcom conference, highlighting his significant contributions to the industry. While he prefers to focus on business success and profit margins rather than accolades, this recognition underscores his leadership in navigating industry challenges and leveraging popular franchises. Bassetti's calm demeanor and strategic vision are pivotal as live entertainment continues to evolve, making this award not just a personal achievement but a testament to the resilience and innovation within the entertainment sector.

Sony Pictures Television is set to introduce a new drama award at the MIA Market in Rome, marking an exciting development for the industry. This award will be presented for the first time during the annual MIA Drama Coproduction Market & Pitching Forum, recognizing outstanding talent and creativity in drama production. It's a significant step for SPT as it highlights their commitment to fostering new projects and supporting the creative community in Italy and beyond.

Jeff Orlowski-Yang's new short film 'Chasing Time' is set to kick off the eighth season of 'POV Shorts' on November 18. This series, which started in 2018, has become a vital platform for filmmakers to explore and share stories about pressing contemporary issues and cultural narratives. The launch of this season is exciting as it continues to highlight diverse voices and important topics, making it a significant addition to the documentary landscape.

Chris Pine and Jenny Slate are set to star in the indie romance 'Carousel,' directed by Rachel Lambert, known for her previous work at Sundance. While details about the plot remain under wraps, the film promises to be a captivating love story. This collaboration highlights the growing trend of indie films attracting big-name talent, which not only boosts the film's profile but also offers audiences unique storytelling experiences.

Amazon is set to release a new docuseries focusing on the Gilgo Beach murders, a chilling case involving architect Rex Heuermann, who was arrested in 2023 for the murders of seven women in Long Island. This docuseries aims to shed light on the complexities of the case and the impact it has had on the community, making it a significant addition to the true crime genre that continues to captivate audiences.

The review of 'Tron: Ares' highlights Jared Leto's performance in a reboot of Disney's iconic digital franchise. While the original 'Tron' was a groundbreaking film in CGI, this new installment aims to capture a modern audience. The significance of this reboot lies in its potential to revive interest in the franchise and introduce it to a new generation, especially after the mixed reception of 'Tron: Legacy' in 2010.

Zelda Williams, the daughter of the late actor Robin Williams, has expressed her disapproval of AI-generated videos that pay tribute to her father. She has urged fans to refrain from sending her these digital creations, emphasizing that they do not capture the essence of her father's legacy. This matter is significant as it raises questions about the ethics of using AI to recreate the likeness and persona of deceased individuals, highlighting the emotional impact on their families.

Robin Williams' daughter has made a heartfelt plea for people to stop sending her AI-generated videos of her late father, who passed away in 2014. She emphasized that this is not what he would have wanted, highlighting the emotional toll such actions can take on family members. This situation raises important questions about the ethics of using AI to recreate the likeness of deceased individuals and the impact it has on their loved ones.