WaperThe combined Paramount–Warner Bros.
Film & TV8 items
Discovery is offering voluntary exits ahead of expected layoffs and a companywide office return. Elsewhere, Hunger Games tracking points to a $60 million-plus domestic opening, while digital-first production and French animation labor demands highlight changing production economics.
Combined Paramount–Warner Bros. Discovery offers exits ahead of expected layoffs
David Ellison and Ynon Kreiz told employees that eligible staff will receive personalized, one-time offers to leave. Layoffs remain expected, and a phased five-day office policy is coming companywide.
Why it matters: The integration brings workforce reductions and workplace changes across two major Hollywood businesses.
Hunger Games prequel tracking starts at $60 million-plus domestically
Lionsgate’s The Hunger Games: Sunrise on the Reaping entered tracking with U.S. opening forecasts starting at $60 million-plus ahead of Thanksgiving.
Why it matters: The forecast positions the franchise as a significant contributor to the holiday theatrical market, though it is not an actual result.
Laika’s Wildwood opens with $12.2 million
Wildwood debuted with $12.2 million, near Kubo’s opening and more than double Missing Link’s debut. International expansion is still ahead.
Why it matters: The opening provides an early commercial benchmark for Laika’s latest release before its international rollout.
French animation union calls nationwide two-hour walkout for November 18
SNTPCT is asking animation and VFX workers across France to stop work from 2 p.m. to 4 p.m. on November 18. Its demands to AnimFrance and SPI cover pay, generative AI, job titles and public holidays.
Why it matters: The call puts compensation and AI protections on the bargaining agenda across France’s animation and VFX production sector.
Amazon MGM develops The Courier series with Martin Gero
Amazon MGM Studios is developing a series adaptation of Melinda Leigh’s thriller novel The Courier. Martin Gero, whose concept underpins the novel, will write, executive produce and serve as showrunner.
Why it matters: The project adds a book-based thriller to Amazon MGM’s development pipeline, with its creative lead already attached.
Gotham Group and Toonstar plan up to 12 animated shows
Gotham Group and Toonstar will develop as many as 12 original children’s animated shows. The slate will use Toonstar’s Ink & Pixel production engine and SPOT distribution tool to reach YouTube and other online platforms.
Why it matters: The partnership directs a sizable development slate toward digital platforms rather than traditional television distribution.
Hoorae reports 580 million views for its microdramas
Issa Rae’s Hoorae team reported 580 million views for its microdramas. At IndieWire’s Future of Filmmaking Summit, the team discussed vertical storytelling and production opportunities while acknowledging that the economics are still taking shape.
Why it matters: The audience scale makes vertical storytelling worth watching, but views alone do not establish a sustainable production business.
Cinema Guild acquires North American rights to My Wife Cries
Cinema Guild acquired North American distribution rights to Angela Schanelec’s My Wife Cries. The film premiered in competition at the Berlin International Film Festival and later played the New York Film Festival’s Main Slate.
Why it matters: The acquisition secures a North American distributor for the festival title; no release date was stated.