Tom argues the Hollywood system works, citing the success of indie films like 'Backrooms' and 'Obsession'. The box office is roaring in 2025, driven by young audiences seeking social experiences. A 45-day theatrical window is the sweet spot. The greatest threat is the end of originality.
Asks what the success of indie films like 'Backrooms' says about the Hollywood system.
Romaine Bostick
Tom Rothman
It tells me the system works. Those movies succeeded with the help of long-standing institutions.
Asks if indie hits are what it takes to get younger audiences back to theaters.
Romaine Bostick
Tom Rothman
The box office is roaring in 2025, on track for $10B. Young audiences do want to get off their phones and have a live social experience. Studios must speak to them in a relevant aesthetic.
Points to the success of Toy Story and upcoming Spider-Man.
Asks if the success of YouTube-originated films changes how Hollywood finds talent.
Katie Greifeld
Tom Rothman
Hollywood must look everywhere for new talent. The phenomenon of new talent entering the industry is not new, but the source (YouTube) is.
Asks about the frustration that Hollywood relies too much on sequels.
Katie Greifeld
Tom Rothman
Agrees. The greatest threat is the end of originality. However, sequels can be different (e.g., new Spider-Man is more grounded and emotionally driven).
Asks about the balance between streaming and theatrical releases.
Romaine Bostick
Tom Rothman
A 45-day theatrical window is the sweet spot. Exclusivity is important for the ecosystem. The old 6-month window was too long, and day-and-date during COVID was too short.
Asks for the key takeaway from the strong summer box office.
Katie Greifeld
Tom Rothman
You have to make it great and create cultural urgency. It's not 'if you build it, they will come'.
Asks for a movie that surprised him with its success.
Romaine Bostick
Tom Rothman
Titanic was the biggest surprise. Everyone thought it would fail, but it became the highest-grossing movie in history.
