The Screen Show Big pivots in Hollywood + My Father's Shadow
Mar 18, 2026
Akinola Davies Jr., British–Nigerian filmmaker behind My Father's Shadow, reflects on his Lagos childhood and a father he barely knew. Nicholas Godfrey, senior lecturer in screen, breaks down awards, studio strategies and production practices. Rory Elkington, screen studies academic, maps consolidation, distribution shifts and streaming’s role in broadening international audiences.
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Hollywood Has Fewer Films And Less Diversity
- Hollywood is still below pre-COVID levels with fewer studios, films and theatrical attendance reducing diversity of releases.
- Rory Elkington cites a 35% drop in releases from the six major studios since the early 2000s and adult dramas now account for only 7% of US ticket sales.
Warner Brothers Rebounds Amid Sale Talks
- Warner Brothers went from appearing in trouble to Oscar dominance with Sinners and One Battle After Another, shifting perceptions of studio health.
- Nicholas Godfrey notes the studio was heavily criticised a year ago for big expensive flops yet now leads major awards and is up for sale.
Takeover Promises Are Likely Overoptimistic
- Promised output from a potential Paramount takeover of Warner Brothers sounds reassuring but should be met with scepticism.
- Rory Elkington warns debt, staff consolidation and overlapping roles make maintained film output unlikely in practice.