Ankler Agenda

Just two deals and Sundance is almost over? Ouch. Richard Rushfield, on the ground at the fest, gives his report on indie malaise and how to fix it. Plus: Sean McNulty, Elaine Low and Richard on Peacock and NBCU’s troubling Q4, and Netflix’s showy 2025 slate, while Natalie Jarvey, author of the new Like & Subscribe newsletter, on why Hollywood absolutely should “work with” the creators upending entertainment. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Sean Evans, the host of 'Hot Ones', shares his journey to independence from BuzzFeed, highlighting the creative and financial benefits of self-ownership. Rhett & Link, the YouTube duo behind 'Good Mythical Morning', discuss their investment in Evans' venture and the significance of audience engagement. They debate the integrity of boneless hot wings while paralleling it to their commitment to creative authenticity. The trio also explores the evolving media landscape and the importance of collaboration and resilience in achieving success as content creators.

Join Dan Cogan, an Oscar-winning producer known for 'Icarus,' Heather Freeland, Adobe's chief brand officer, Jordan Howlett, a viral creator with 14 million followers, and Julian Jacobs from UTA for a lively discussion on the evolving landscape of entertainment. They delve into how brands are reshaping storytelling, emphasize the importance of authenticity in collaborations, and reflect on how social media is transforming audience engagement. It's a fresh take on how creators, filmmakers, and marketers are joining forces to create compelling narratives.

Katey Rich, an awards expert and journalist known for her Oscar predictions, joins the discussion on Hollywood's evolving landscape. They tackle the alarming rise of 'if-come' deals that leave writers unpaid unless their projects sell, creating a new era of 'involuntary servitude.' Katey shares insights into the recent Oscar nominations, adds excitement around Sundance, and reflects on Netflix's subscriber boom. The conversation reveals a troubling trend of unpaid work in an increasingly competitive industry.

Can Jon Voight save Hollywood? Probably not. But President Trump’s announcement that the Midnight Cowboy, Mad Max (Mel Gibson) and Rocky (Sylvester Stallone) would be his “special envoys” in L.A. on the eve of his inauguration followed the latest report on L.A.’s continued production exodus. Sean McNulty, Elaine Low and Richard Rushfield dissect the numbers and where the industry is heading in 2025. Plus: How is Gen Z outfoxing studio and streaming marketers? Matthew Frank explains.  Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

“Everybody was feeling really optimistic going into this year,” says Elaine Low — and while there are encouraging signs for Hollywood, from new business models to a return to the fundamentals, she and Richard Rushfield tell Sean McNulty about friends who have lost homes, Richard’s memories of growing up in Pacific Palisades, and Elaine’s anxiety over suddenly preparing a go-bag. On a lighter note: They also dissect their night at Netflix’s WWE Raw premiere — with Richard announcing whom he’ll be fighting at the next WrestleMania.We’re collecting stories of how the entertainment community is coping with the Los Angeles fires. Submit yours here. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Mike De Luca and Richard Brener, seasoned executives from New Line Cinema, share their firsthand experiences from the vibrant '90s film scene. They dive into the making of iconic titles like 'Austin Powers' and 'Se7en,' showcasing the bold, risk-taking spirit that defined the era. De Luca reveals the unconventional strategies that enabled the indie studio to thrive, while Brener reflects on his journey from temp to president. Together, they emphasize the importance of creativity, collaboration, and innovative storytelling in a changing Hollywood landscape.

Blake Lively claims she's the target of a smear campaign, while Justin Baldoni argues her actions have damaged his reputation. The hosts dissect this feud and the involvement of a YouTube journalist, labeling it typical Hollywood drama. They also delve into the impact of animation and intellectual property on box office trends for 2024. Additionally, there's a discussion on what's affecting cinema today, including longer trailers and the desire for more streaming content.

Drew McWeeny, a film critic and writer known for his early days at Ain't It Cool News, dives deep into the disruptive influence of the site on Hollywood journalism. He reminisces about how the site fearlessly challenged studio narratives and transformed film reviews, particularly impacting 'Titanic.' McWeeny discusses the chaotic production behind the film, provocative test screenings, and the shifting dynamics of media relations in the industry. He also reflects on the indie film revolution of the 90s and the evolution of marketing strategies that captivated audiences.

The hosts dive into the entertainment industry's future, highlighting a revival in the spec market and fresh revenue streams through platforms like YouTube and AI. They tackle the dynamics of celebrity gossip, including a smear campaign involving Blake Lively. A deep discussion reveals Hollywood's struggles, such as a significant drop in production and a shift in storytelling opportunities. They also explore the decline of cable TV and the rise of advertising, all while adding a dash of festive joy through spirited holiday movie rankings.