Chicago-based commercial and digital content production company Explore–under the aegis of founder/EP Jeremy Pinckert–has brought Ilya Polyakov aboard its directorial roster. Born in Ukraine and based in Los Angeles, Polyakov directs film, TV and recently has added commercials to his body of work. He is best known for directing the sketch comedy TV show, Betch, where in over 30 episodes for AwesomenessTV he drew out fast-paced dialogue gold from the talented actors, with particular emphasis on working with ensemble casts. Polyakov has also directed projects for Nickelodeon, College Humor, and branded content for Eckrich, Dannon, Captain Crunch, Durex and Blu Cigs….
Disney easily topped first-quarter expectations thanks in part to the box office smash "Moana 2."
There were some oversized expectations for the animated film but "Moana 2", originally intended as a series for the company's streaming service before it was produced for the big screen — blew predictions out of the water. Its five-day opening set a new record for Thanksgiving moviegoing.
The Walt Disney Co. earned $2.55 billion, or $1.40 per share, for the period ended Dec. 28. The Burbank, California-based company earned $1.91 billion, or $1.04 per share, in the prior-year period.
Stripping out one-time charges and benefits, earnings were $1.76 per share, which is 32 cents better than Wall Street was expecting, according to analysts surveyed by Zacks Investment Research.
Revenue rose 5% to $24.69 billion, a bit better than analysts had projected.
Revenue in Disney's Entertainment segment increased 9%. Revenue for content sales/licensing and Other jumped 34% due to the strong performance of "Moana 2."
CEO Bob Iger and chief financial officer Hugh Johnston said in a prepared remarks that the Moana film franchise demonstrates the strong connection that audiences have with Disney's stories and characters and further validates the company's strategy of investing in popular intellectual property.
Disney's direct-to-consumer business, which includes Disney+ and Hulu, reported quarterly operating income of $293 million compared with an operating loss of $138 million a year ago. Revenue increased 9% to $6.07 billion.
The Disney+ streaming service had a 1% increase in paid subscribers domestically, which includes the U.S. and Canada. But there was a 2% drop internationally, which excludes Disney+ HotStar. Total paid... Read More
