WaperSony is joining Lionsgate’s live-action Naruto adaptation, while Universal’s The Odyssey has set a new international box-office record for the studio.
Film & TV8 items
Netflix is testing AI-powered discovery and expanding its YA slate with Prep.
Lionsgate greenlights Naruto with Sony co-financing and international distribution
Destin Daniel Cretton will write, direct and produce Lionsgate’s live-action Naruto adaptation, with Sony co-financing and handling international distribution. Production starts in spring 2027.
Why it matters: The partnership advances a major manga adaptation into production and shares its financing and distribution across two studios.
The Odyssey passes $1.17 billion internationally, setting Universal record
Christopher Nolan’s The Odyssey has surpassed $1.17 billion at the international box office, becoming Universal Pictures’ highest-grossing international release ever.
Why it matters: The milestone establishes a new overseas benchmark for Universal’s theatrical business.
Netflix tests AI Discover recommendations on its TV app
Netflix is introducing AI Discover to a limited group of U.S. subscribers watching in English on supported TVs. The feature uses viewers’ input about their moods and interests to recommend programming.
Why it matters: The test targets content discovery as Netflix faces declining viewer engagement in recent quarters.
Netflix orders Prep adaptation from One Day creator Nicole Taylor
Netflix has given a straight-to-series order to Prep, a half-hour YA drama based on Curtis Sittenfeld’s novel. Nicole Taylor is showrunner, with Gloria Sanchez Productions involved.
Why it matters: Netflix is pairing established literary material with a creator behind One Day in its search for another YA hit.
Matthew Perry documentary opens with 9.5 million Netflix views; Lupin leads series
The One About Matthew Perry topped Netflix’s English-language TV rankings for October 26–November 1 with 9.5 million views in its first weekend. Lupin Part 4 led all series.
Why it matters: The rankings highlight strong documentary demand alongside the broader reach of Netflix’s non-English programming.
Paramount and Spin Master develop fourth PAW Patrol film for 2029
Spin Master and Paramount Animation are developing PAW Patrol 4 for a 2029 release, with Cal Brunker and Bob Barlen returning. The third feature, The Dino Movie, premieres exclusively on Paramount+ November 12.
Why it matters: The franchise is extending its theatrical pipeline while supplying Paramount+ with an exclusive family release.
La Bola Negra becomes Spain’s third-highest-grossing Spanish film
Javier Calvo and Javier Ambrossi’s La Bola Negra reached an estimated €36.7 million ($41 million) in Spain through November 1, according to Rentrak figures. It now ranks third among Spanish films at the domestic box office.
Why it matters: The result provides a significant benchmark for the commercial potential of locally produced Spanish films.
Disrupt acquires Atoman for North American theatrical release
Disrupt Entertainment acquired all North American distribution rights to Moroccan-Belgian superhero film Atoman. It plans an early-2027 theatrical rollout on at least 100 screens through AMC Theatres and other exhibitors.
Why it matters: The acquisition secures a defined North American theatrical footprint ahead of the film’s international sales push at AFM.