Brandon Katz on How IP Stifles Originality in Movies & TV

Host Michael Azevedo welcomes back journalist and media analyst Brandon Katz. Brandon’s recent article in The Observer, titled "The Decline of Originality in Hollywood: A Look at the Numbers" explores how original content, in TV shows and movies, have, over the past 15 years, lost out in a landslide to existing IP, meaning Intellectual Property.

 

Existing IP is defined as anything based on pre-existing material such as comic books, novels, video games, podcasts and musicals and including remakes, reboots, revivals, prequels, sequels and spinoffs. 

 

If you look at the numbers—viewership and ticket sales—it’s undeniable that IP-driven content is a powerhouse. Audiences flock to familiar characters and worlds, guaranteeing a certain level of viewership and, crucially, revenue. In a risk-averse industry, leaning on established IP is a seemingly safe bet.

 

Brandon and Michael took a deep dive into this topic and, as usual, Brandon’s comments are fact-based, diligently researched, and reveal a unique understanding of the media’s creative aspirations and its financial preoccupations. 

 

Making Media Now is sponsored by Filmmakers Collaborative, a non-profit organization dedicated to supporting media makers from across the creative spectrum. From providing fiscal sponsorship to presenting an array of informative and educational programs, Filmmakers Collaborative supports creatives at every step in their journey.

About the host: www.writevoicecreative.com and https://www.linkedin.com/in/michael-azevedo/

 

Sound Engineer: A.J. Kierstead