The Ankler is an independent media publication covering the business of Hollywood, offering a sharp alternative to traditional trade reporting with insider insight and wit. Named by The New York Times as a 'buzzy newsletter' circulating through Hollywood C-suites and recognized by Fast Company as one of the top newsletters, it provides award-nominated coverage of the entertainment industry. The company secured $1.625 million in seed funding from Y Combinator in 2022 and has been nominated for two Webby Awards, building a subscriber-backed independent platform that sets it apart from typical trade media.
Every Thursday - What’s driving Hollywood—explained each week
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seasonal - The artists and artisans crafting Hollywood from below the line
What audiences are watching — and why
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What mattered this week in Hollywood
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Roku Media President Charlie Collier discussed Fox Corp.'s $22 billion acquisition of Roku during an interview at Cannes Lions. The discussion highlighted the strategic intent to leverage Roku's connected TV reach and data capabilities to drive search, social, and TV advertising performance.
Luma AI, a generative AI video startup valued at $4 billion, is strategically focusing its tools on creative professionals rather than direct consumers. The company's COO, Caroline Ingeborn, stated that the aim is to address production problems for filmmakers, advertisers, and creative teams in Hollywood. This approach contrasts with the 'movie-in-a-prompt' fantasy previously envisioned by companies like OpenAI with Sora, and has reportedly led to significant growth in Luma's valuation and team size since 2024.
The article discusses low expectations for the upcoming film 'The Mandalorian and Grogu' ahead of its theatrical release, suggesting a fractured 'Star Wars' fandom. It posits that Disney is facing a challenge to revitalize the franchise's perceived scope following its Disney+ streaming exclusivity.
Broadcast television, specifically the Big 4 networks (ABC, CBS, Fox, NBC), is reportedly experiencing growth in series volume and viewership. This challenges the common narrative of broadcast TV decline, suggesting sustained audience engagement with traditional linear channels.
Independent studio A24 is reportedly altering the television production landscape with an aggressive strategy characterized by high spending and rapid development. The company's approach is creating intense bidding wars for new projects, compelling rival studios and streaming services to increase their financial commitments to secure content.
