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Good days.
I’m not going to lie: this week has been on my gluteus maximus - I guess it’s just what season-changing does to you. But you’re here, and I’m grateful.
This is Roll the Tape, our weekly market recap of recent transactions and updates in the industry.
If you’re new here, welcome to The Produced. Check out our previous deep-dive issues:
B-Roll #2: An Incubated Dragon of Asia’s Film Industry: Vietnam
B-Roll #2: The Rise and Rise of A24
B-Roll #1: Deep Dive into Streaming Services vs. Movie Theatres
Automatic serotonin boost.
Recent Transactions
PhantomFX Animation studio of India has started the process in acquiring 80% majority stake of Tippett Studio, which is currently valued at USD $3.75 million.
PhantomFX did all the flying shabang in The Avengers - so pretty dope?
Reported by the Network of Independent Canadian Exhibitors, Canada’s independent movie chains now needs a $50,000 extra funding/year to keep the companies upfloat.
Hong Kong introduces a $1.15 million funding scheme to bridge gaps in film industries between Asian and European countries at Filmart.
This prompted talks of co-production between Asian countries to mitigate financial gaps.
Disney scored the leaderboard in company-wide synergy for the 96th Oscars. Partnerships include ESPN and tickets to Disneyland.
Give me those tickets to go see Coco, I’ll take that any time.
‘Monkey Man,” the New Unpaid Tears Generator
Once again, the legend Jordan Peele does not fail us. Okay, this film is not directed by Peele, but we’re getting into it.
More Than Just a Successful Debut
‘Monkey Man’ is a new movie and a directorial debut of Dev Patel, an exemplary actor featured in hits like ‘Lion’ (2016) and ‘The Man Who Knew Infinity’ (2015).
(fine, exemplary is the only big word I know so Imma use it.)
Recently premiered at SXSW, Patel received a standing ovation as the audiences erupted in pure thunderstorm applauses after the screening. And a whole lot of crying.
The film follows Kid’s journey, the protagonist, as he emerges on the path of vengeance after experiencing a tragic past. And here’s the catch: it’s a story of seeking justice by marginalized societies against institutional oppressions.
Tomatoed makeup because this image is from Rotten Tomatoes. Patel writes, directs and stars in his own movie - iconic triple threat.
And yes, we’ll never run out of stories about corrupted forces and exploitation because unfortunately, it’s an ongoing fight.
Sought Out by Another Poignant Social Commentator
So you may question: “What does Jordan Peele have to do with this?” Well, one of the reasons why I mentioned him is, drumrolls - just because.
Sorry, a bit unserious there.
In fact, Jordan Peele played an integral role in getting this film off the ground, produced and premiered worldwide. Initially, the film was dropped by Netflix. Tough loss.
However, after hearing and viewing this motion picture, Peele not only pushed for its production in collaboration with his company but also signed a deal with Universal.
Just a couple of great, big, intelligent brains
It is not surprising that Jordan Peele saw this gem through.
As one of the most celebrated auteurs and filmmakers in the industry, Peele is known for his psychological thriller and horrors aimed to unsettle and destabilize conventional narratives in a very sophisticated style:
Emphasis on the psyche: stressing the importance of psychological trauma
Themes on race, exploitation and capitalism
Similarly, Patel’s vision for ‘Monkey Man’ is to provide a critique on exploitation against lower and marginalized classes, and urge audiences to sit with that discomfort.
Because the loudest act of resistance can stem from the most subdued but impactful critique through art.
A Promising Blockbuster
As of right now, our trusted buddy Rotten Tomatoes has given this movie an 89%. Wowza.
Judging from the positive responses at its world premiere, ‘Monkey Man’ is promising a potential 2024 blockbuster for this year. Will Universal Studios’ acquisition of Patel’s debut help the company see it through with stock prices on the market?
Let’s wait and find out.
Music Shopping
Do me a favor and listen to this album. She’s really worked on her enunciation so show Ari some love!
That’s it for today.
What did you think of the Oscars?
I have mixed opinions and would love to hear your thoughts.
You can also DM The Produced via our Instagram or X (Twitter) because I cannot stop yapping about the Oscars.
Stay safe, and I’ll see you in a bit.
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