In 2024, the media industry underwent profound changes. At 8.75 billion dollars, US cinema recorded its lowest revenue since the lockdowns, which was mainly caused by delays in film releases due to writer and actor strikes and a lack of original content. Despite some blockbusters such as Inside Out 2 and Deadpool & Wolverine Disney dominated global sales with 5.46 billion dollars, but the dependence on sequels and franchises showed a creative stagnation.

At the same time FAST platforms (Free Ad-Supported Streaming TV) such as Roku and Tubi. Roku overtook Tubi with a 1.9 % share of the US TV market. Streaming grew and now had 42 % of TV usage, while cable TV fell to just 25 %. Ad-supported streaming was increasingly perceived as a cost-effective alternative to subscription services.

The Mergers and acquisitions The number of TV programmes in 2024 increased, with companies such as Paramount with Skydance and Comcast with the spin-off of NBCUniversal pursuing new strategies. Disney experimented with new bundled offerings, including a joint package of Hulu, Max and Disney+.

For Netflix 2024 was a year of realignment. Instead of continuing to focus on growth, the streaming giant now Profitability and viewer loyalty. With live events such as NFL games and boxing matches, Netflix showed efforts to expand its content beyond on-demand streaming, although technical problems arose. The gaming business took a back seat, while the licensing of library titles continued to play a central role.

Looking ahead to 2025, the industry is facing crucial questions: Will cinemas recover? Can FAST platforms continue their success? How will streaming services expand their innovative strength? What is clear is that adaptability and innovation will be key to surviving in this dynamic and competitive industry.

FILMTAKE reports in detail.