By Jake Coyle, Film Writer
NEW YORK (AP) --Netflix further beefed up its film catalog on Thursday in a multi-year deal that will make it the new streaming home to Sony Pictures' top releases in the U.S.
Beginning next year, Sony's new films will exclusively stream domestically on Netflix after their theatrical runs. That includes movies in popular franchises like "Spider-Man," "Venom" and "Jumanji," and 2022 releases including "Morbius," "Where the Crawdads Sing," "Uncharted" and "Bullet Train."
The agreement also gives Netflix a first-look option on any films the Culver City, California-based studio elects to send directly to streaming.
In a world of quickly proliferating streaming services, the deal — once the kind that would have typically gone to premium cable networks — is an anomaly. Sony is the only traditional Hollywood studios without a streaming service of its own. The Walt Disney Co. has Disney+, Warner Bros. has HBO Max, Universal Pictures has Peacock and Paramount Pictures has Paramount+.
Wednesday's deal replaces a long-running agreement between Sony and Starz. Financial terms weren't disclosed. During the pandemic, Sony previously sold to Netflix Kevin Hart's "Fatherhood," "The Mitchells Vs. The Machines" and "Wish Dragon." It also sent "Greyhound" to Apple TV+ and "American Pickle" to HBO Max.
"Sony Pictures is a great partner and we are thrilled to expand our relationship through this forward-thinking agreement," said Netflix global film head Scott Stuber. "This not only allows us to bring their impressive slate of beloved film franchises and new IP to Netflix in the U.S., but it also establishes a new source of first run films for Netflix movie lovers worldwide."
In the increasingly competitive streaming landscape, the deep-pocketed Netflix has been aggressively expanding its film library. The streaming service plans to release more than one film a week this year. It also recently acquired the rights to multiple "Knives Out" sequels in a deal that reportedly exceeds $450 million.
The Many Hires Jeremiah Wassom As Group Creative Director
Independent agency The Many has added Jeremiah Wassom as group creative director.
Wassom most recently worked a decade at Deutsch LA where, as SVP/creative director, he led the Taco Bell account and won new business for the agency. His agency past also includes AKQA and TBWAChiatDay. His creative work has touched the QSR, video games, automotive, fashion, and culture brand sectors. He also served eight years with the United States Marine Corps.
“Throughout his career, Jeremiah has helmed work that has not only made me personally jealous but has consistently pushed brands to show up in memorable and innovative ways,” said Josh Paialii, head of creative at The Many. “One look at his body of work and you will see his passion for storytelling and craft has raised the bar for entire categories, driving participation with many brands’ most loyal fans. Beyond being a world-class creative director and maker, Wassom is a proven team player and strategic thought leader. He’ll be a great addition to the leadership team at The Many working across all accounts. His role will be immediately felt as he guides and supports each of the creative leads in the department.”
A 20-year creative with agency, brand, and freelance experience, Wassom has forged a creative approach which focuses on crafting engaging connections rather than simply make ads. He sees the need for advertising to mean more, not simply do more.
The Many believes that true business growth is made possible by harnessing the power of participation and partners with brands to forge deeper connections with consumers, cultivate trust and loyalty, and maximize marketing spend and execution. The agency is built around a flexible model that offers a suite of capabilities, including... Read More