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The article provides understanding of the different ways the video-sharing app TikTok changed American pop culture. Topics discussed include appeal of TikTok to the Generation Z, popularity of TikTok over other social media apps like Instagram and X, use of TikTok as a promotional outlet, experts' debunking conspiracy theories, visualization of future self, collection of personal information of users, and luxury brands signing up TikTok stars as brand ambassadors to gain access to audience.

The article reports on the failure by activist investor Nelson Peltz and former Marvel Entertainment chairperson Ike Perlmutter to gain board seats in the Walt Disney Co. after shareholders voted to elect all its board nominees. The vote results mean a rejection of the demand of Peltz's hedge fund Trian Partners for two board seats. Also cited is the criticism by Trian Partners of Disney's succession planning and streaming strategy.

The article focuses on the annual conversation around perceived Oscar snubs, exploring the attention garnered by individuals overlooked or denied nominations, with an emphasis on Hollywood publicists and modern Oscar electioneering as factors contributing to the rise of the "snub" phenomenon.

The article suggests a potential conflict of interest for Dana Walden, co-chairman of media company Disney Entertainment and oversees ABC News, the host of the 2024 presidential debate, considering her friendship with U.S. Vice President Kamala Harris and their husbands. It presents a response from ABC News citing its reputation on journalistic integrity and journalistic standards. An overview of the ascension of Walden as executive at Disney and ABC News is provided.

The article presents information on a decline in financial results for the theme parks owned by Disney for the three months ended June 29, 2024. Topics discussed include a decline in its operating profits despite an increase in revenue, factors that contributed to the decline in results, and the importance of theme parks to Disney.

The article shows the approach of Hollywood film studios to cutting sociopolitical messages to sell movies to the masses. It informs about Universal Pictures' non-mention of climate change message in "Twisters," as well as the reliance of Participant Media on studios and streaming services, and the priority of Paramount Pictures to produce entertaining films. Emphasis is given on the pressure on studios to boost revenue and profit and the industry's failure to recover from the pandemic.

The article reports on the deal made by David Ellison, chief executive of Skydance Media, to acquire film production company Paramount Pictures. Focus is given on the plan of Ellison to remake Paramount Pictures' collection of assets into a technology hybrid and overhaul television network Paramount+ by finding cost efficiencies and synergies in older businesses. A background on the history and productive years of Paramount Pictures is provided.

The article reports on the deal being pushed by Tom Ortenberg and his company Briarcliff Entertainment to acquire and release the film "The Apprentice," a dramatized origin story about former U.S. President Donald J. Trump, in theaters. It discusses hurdles to the planned release of the movie that include publicity, potential legal liability for upstart film company Kinematics, marketing, international distribution and piracy, and regulatory retribution from Trump should he be re-elected.

The article reports on the move by Disney to launch a replacement to its popular Splash Mountain flume ride after its shutdown in 2020 due to its alleged racist background. The new ride Tiana's Bayou Adventure is based on the 2009 animated musical "The Princess and the Frog" and will open at Disney World in Florida in June 2024. Also cited is the comment of Disney's theme park chairperson Josh D'Amaro on the new ride.

The article profiles Glen Powell, highlighting his rise in Hollywood through savvy business acumen and box office appeal, debunking initial perceptions of him as a mere "dumb jock," as he strategically navigates roles and publicity to build a lasting career akin to veteran action stars.

The article reports on the failure of the big-budget Warner Bros. prequel "Furiosa: A Mad Max Saga," to reach box office expectations, collecting an estimated 25.6 million U.S. dollars in the U.S. and Canada from May 23-26, 2024. Cited are the high expectations of Hollywood for the film that received exceptional reviews when it premiered at the Cannes Film Festival, and theories on why fewer moviegoers turn to watch "Furiosa," and the forecasted ticket sales over the Memorial Day weekend.

The article reports on the Box Office failure of the action comedy film "The Fall Guy" despite a six-month marketing campaign by Universal Pictures, positive reviews and a cast led by Ryan Gosling. It shows the ticket sales of the movie in North America and additional sales from overseas. It cite the risks for movie studios in taking new stories and suggest the potential of romantic comedies to add more ticket sales in the weeks ahead.

The article explores the return of sex themes in the motion picture industry in the U.S. Topics discussed include film companies' focus on franchises with parental guidance for children under 13 (PG-13) and animated films in the 2000s, filmmakers' push for sex scenes to explore changing attitudes about sex, and the release of the sports drama film "Challenger" which features eroticism.

The article reports on the key role played by small investors in the effort by Disney to prevent activist investor Nelson Peltz from achieving two board seats, including one for himself. Also cited are the advice by shareholders like George Lucas, Laurene Powell Jobs, and Jamie Dimon that Peltz should be denied a board seat, and Disney's use of characters like Moana and Iron Man to campaign against Peltz.

The article reports on the impact of the expansion plan announced by Disney for its theme parks and cruise operations in 2023 on its stock price.

The article discusses Marvel Studios' successful return to the box office with "Deadpool & Wolverine," which is on track to set a record for the largest R-rated movie opening and has revitalized Marvel's recent struggles, while also noting broader industry challenges.

The article focuses on the SAG-AFTRA actors' union initiating a strike against video game companies over the use of actors' images and voices, following a prolonged negotiation period.

The article focuses on greeting cards and related products company, Hallmark's strategic shift into the streaming market with the launch of Hallmark+, aiming to expand its reach beyond traditional cable while capitalizing on its brand's loyal viewership.

The article reports on the decision of mass media and entertainment company Walt Disney Co. to drop its lawsuit against Florida Governor Ron DeSantis over the control of a planned development at the Disney World theme park in Orlando. It informs about the agreement of Walt Disney to pause an appeal to a court ruling that dismissed its claim of First Amendment violation and to stop fighting the tax district and the agreement of the tax district to not impede Disney's environmental permits.

The article highlights the dominance of mass media and entertainment company NBCUniversal under the leadership of Donna Langley, chief content officer and studios chairwoman. Among NBCUniversal's successes include the Oscar awards to the film "Oppenheimer," worldwide box office in 2023 and increased audience reach. Credit is given to Langley for the studio's partnerships with talents, corporate culture, movie releases and operations.

The article reports on the criticisms of the move by the Academy of Motion Picture Arts and Sciences to change diversity and inclusion standards. Topics mentioned include the four categories of representation, the improvement in the academy after initiating a major expansion of its membership, and the issue concerning the possibility of lawsuits regarding the academy's requirements.

The article reports on the joint efforts of the grandchildren and heirs of Walt and Roy Disney, founders of mass media and entertainment firm Walt Disney Co., to oppose activist investor Nelson Peltz and shareholder Ike Perlmutter on their proxy battle for board seats. Focus is given on the commitment of Disney to protecting the legacy of its founders, as well as the support of the Disney family to Disney chief executive Robert A. Iger and the strategy he and his team has implemented.

The article reports on the ruling issued by Judge Allen Winsor of the U.S. District Court for the Northern District of Florida, dismissing the lawsuit filed by the Walt Disney Co. against Florida Governor Ron DeSantis and his allies breached the First Amendment when they took over a special tax district encompassing the Walt Disney World. Also cited is the claim by Walt Disney that it will appeal the decision.

The article reports on the factors that contributed to the decline in the box-office sales of American films released in China. Topics mentioned include the initiative of the film industry in China to produce high-quality films that have appeal with Chinese audiences, the move by Chinese filmmakers to create films that are aligned with the Communist Party's doctrines, and the need to examine Chinese pop culture, audiences, and market.

The article reports on the 13 Oscar award nominations for Christopher Nolan's movie "Oppenheimer," including best picture, best director and best screenplay. Other Nominees in the best picture category included "Poor Things," "American Fiction," "Anatomy of a Fall," "The Holdovers," "Maestro," "Past Lives," "The Zone of Interest," "Barbie" and "Killers of the Flower Moon." Also noted are the nominees for best actor, best actress, best supporting actor and best supporting actress categories.

The article reports on the tension during awards season in the U.S. as celebrities use their acceptance speeches to incorporate political topics and bring attention to progressive causes and concerns. It informs about the advice of publicists and agents to celebrities to say nothing about the Israel-Hamas war, the symbolic yellow ribbons offered by communications firms in support of hostages in Gaza, and celebrities who posted on social media or signed open letters.

The article discusses Hollywood's intensifying efforts to combat online piracy as it seeks to protect streaming revenue. Topics discussed include the hiring of former Federal Bureau of Investigation (FBI) official Larissa L. Knapp to lead the Motion Picture Association's antipiracy drive, the challenges posed by overseas piracy operations, and the push for new U.S. legislation to block access to international piracy sites.

The article focuses on Brooks Barnes' experience as an entertainment reporter covering Disney theme parks, particularly his recent visit to Walt Disney World to test the new ride, Tiana's Bayou Adventure, highlighting how his role requires navigating Disney's corporate culture.

The article focuses on Pixar's resurgence with the release of "Inside Out 2," which marked their return to form after a pandemic-induced hiatus, achieving a strong opening weekend with 155 million U.S. dollar in North American ticket sales and positive reviews.

The article focuses on the resolution of a longstanding dispute between Disney and Governor Ron DeSantis of Florida, allowing Disney to proceed with a 17 billion U.S. dollar development plan at Walt Disney World without political interference for the next 15 years.

The article focuses on the success of Will Smith's latest film, "Bad Boys: Ride or Die", which debuted at number one with 56 million U.S. dollar in ticket sales, marking his 15th first-place debut as a leading man and indicating that moviegoers have forgiven him for his actions at the 2022.

The article focuses on Pixar's decision to halt the production of original shows for Disney+ and reduce its workforce by 14 percent, citing a return to focus on feature films, following questions about the studio's performance after the release of "Lightyear" and "Elemental."

The article focuses on Disney's strong earnings report, buoyed by surprising profits from its streaming service Disney+, but investors reacted nervously to a projected slowdown at Disney theme parks, causing Disney shares to fall more than 9 percent.

The article focuses on Brooks Barnes, who reports on Hollywood for the Business and Culture desks, sharing five recently watched movies and TV shows that serve as his preferred comfort food, featuring off-kilter characters and vivid settings.

The article focuses on David Zaslav, the CEO of Warner Bros. Discovery, receiving 49.7 million U.S. dollar in compensation in 2023, a 26 percent increase from the previous year, despite the company's significant financial losses and declining revenue.

The article focuses on Participant Media, renowned for producing socially conscious films, facing financial challenges and reduced profitability due to changes in the entertainment industry, leading its founder, Jeff Skoll, to cease operations partly due.

The article highlights Alex Garland's dystopian film "Civil War," which defies industry expectations by becoming a box office success, grossing 25.7 million dollars and surpassing "Godzilla x Kong," with a predominantly male and politically moderate to liberal audience.

The article reports on the performance of the movie industry in 2023. Also cited are the box-office performance of films like "Aquaman and the Lost Kingdom," "Barbie," "The Super Mario Bros. Movie," and "Sound of Freedom," the projected North American ticket sales for 2023, and the comment of film consultant David A. Gross on the developments.

The article discusses the announcement of Golden Globe Awards nominations for the 81st ceremony, with "Barbie" leading with nine nominations, followed by "Oppenheimer" with eight, and "Succession" leading the television categories with nine nominations.

The article reports that several major advertisers on social media platform X has cut off their spending after its owner, Elon Musk, endorse an antisemitic conspiracy theory on X. Topics discussed include companies that suspended advertising on the platform, including Disney, Lionsgate and Paramount Global, reaction of Jewish groups to Musk's post, and cut in the advertising spending of IBM that it had committed to X for the rest of 2023.

The article reports on the hectic schedule facing actors and actresses in the U.S. to gain lost time as they are about to return to work following the tentative agreement reached by film companies and the striking union members. According to actors Timothée Chalament and Daisy Edgar-Jones, they are forced to reject other projects due to lack of time. Among the films that could resume productions are Ridley Scott's "Gladiator 2" and "Deadpool 3."

The article reports on the tentative deal of the Screen Actors Guild-American Federation of Television and Radio Artists (SAG-AFTRA) and the Writers Guild of American with movie and television studios, ending a 148-day strike. Terms of the deal include increases in compensation for streaming shows and films, better health care funding, concessions and non-use of artificial intelligence to create digital replicas. It discuses the significance of the deal to the stabilization of productions.

The article reports on the tentative contract agreed upon by writers with U.S. television and film studies that ended the 118-day strike, as well as the challenge of austerity, higher labor expenses and cost of production facing entertainment companies. It discusses the streaming profitability problem, the underlying cable television and box office problems of the entertainment industry, lackluster result of prevailing movie business strategy, and cost-cutting at businesses.

The article reports on lack of response in Hollywood towards the Israel-Hamas conflict. Topics discussed include remarks from Jonathan Greenblatt, the director of the Anti-Defamation League, reaction of Jewish writers included in the Writers Guild of America (WGA) on the guild's refusal to condemn the attacks on Israel, and reason for the public response, according to Meredith Stiehm, president of the WGA West.

The article reports on the box office forecast for the concert debut film "Taylor Swift: The Eras Tour," which will arrive in cinemas in the U.S and Canada in October 2023. Factors that complicate predictions include the timing of the film debut and Swift breaking of Hollywood norms in getting her film to theaters. It raises questions about the staying power of the film, its distribution and the capacity of Swift to mobilizing a fan base.