With rapid consolidation in the space and efforts to create critical mass to convert potential customers or trial subscribers into ongoing paying members, the bundling has returned - but the role of each individual component to a bundle has changed. Bloating an offering like cable packages became infamous for won’t work in the DTC space where subscription decisions aren’t just based on the quantity of options but consistent access to a selection of favorite shows and franchises. 

We’re in a period of heavy consolidation. Conglomerates are merging with conglomerates, studios are becoming integral arms in massive technology firms and, perhaps most relevant to people reading this, independent production companies are becoming the crown jewel for traditional entertainment companies, tech players entering the market, and VC-backed firms. 

Hollywood has tried to figure out how to successfully wade into the world of video games for decades, but a recent string of animated and live-action hits have demonstrated there is more demand than ever from fans to see exceptional adaptations and extensions of their favorite games.

Everyone wants the next big franchise. Marvel Studios has generated close to $25 billion at the global box office alone since 2008’s Iron Man - and that doesn’t include ancillary revenue, Disney+ subscriptions activated, theme park visits, or games licensing opportunities. Joker, a darker take on DC Comics’ most infamous villain, saw more than $1 billion at the box office and spurred a sequel, with director Todd Phillips in talks to potentially help architect the future of the DC Cinematic Universe.