Category: Distribution

Netflix bullish on original content http://t.co/H4CNtw1i Interesting take on Netflix’ original programming – four series so far.

Sorry about the Variety Paywall if you run into it.

What’s particularly telling is that these original series are not some “alternate” programming: they’re coming from the same producers as would otherwise supply networks or cable channels. It makes my point that the networks/cablers don’t have a lock on the future and the new distribution channels (Netflix, Google, Amazon, Apple) can easily take over the role of the middle man as we currently know it.

McDonald’s finds another channel to take its story to the market http://t.co/iAKkCFvv

This must be close to the ultimate branded media project!  Over the last five years it’s become increasingly obvious that branded media – production funded directly by the “brand” – will be a major funding channel in the future. Instead of renting an audience from an intermediary (TV/Cable channel) they buy them directly by funding the production.

Glenn Beck Says Walking Away From Fox Will Get Him $40 Million A Year http://t.co/qmonMcw3

Although the audience is much smaller – 300,000 subscribers vs 2.5 million viewers on Fox – the revenue is dramatically larger.  I think this, along with the recent Louis CK experience, supports the theme that direct connection with an audience and giving them something to pay for they want (in this case access to Beck) is a viable option for future funding of production.

Personally, I loath Beck and what he stands for, but I support his First Amendment Right to be a what he is.

GBTV, which jumped on the scene in September, is expected to bring in at least $40 million in revenue this year, supported by advertising and more than 300,000 subscribers paying as much as $9.95 a month for full access to GBTV, according to a person close to the company.