It’s been one of the biggest headlines in Hollywood since the strikes: after Netflix stumbled, Paramount is set to absorb Warner Bros. and all of its affiliates, channels, and networks.

In this episode, we focus on the impact this merger will have on the industry—and on independent and smaller filmmakers and producers.

Indie filmmakers may not feel the effects directly. Not everyone has access to Warner Bros. or Paramount for licensing or selling a film. But the broader industry shift is significant. Following the acquisition of 20th Century Fox, this would mark another major studio from our formative years being absorbed by a competitor.

The merger itself may not affect indie producers immediately, but it reflects deeper structural changes in the industry. These changes are reshaping the distribution channels available to independent filmmakers.

GUESTS
Lauren Craig is a producer and member of the Producers Guild of America. She led production at Patriot Pictures, now runs LC Creative Consulting, and currently serves on the board of HRTS Associates, the Hollywood Radio & Television Society.

Ev Duran is a four-time Emmy Award winner and co-owner of UTB Studios with partner Monique Duran. She also co-hosts the Bluff Council Podcast with Keith Macri and recently gained attention when Kirsten Dunst and Alicia Silverstone shared a clip from one of their episodes.

MODERATOR
Matt Beurois is a multi-award-winning director, filmmaker, and public sector leader. He is director and programmer of the Yucca Valley Film Festival (8 years) and the Paris Art and Movie Awards (16 years), with his cultural work recognized by his local Congressman, California Senator, Secretary of State, and County Board of Supervisors. Founder and director of the Joshua Tree Film Office, Beurois is also an accomplished filmmaker, with directing credits including The Barn, distributed in over 25 countries; American Game, filmed in the Mojave Desert; and the feature documentary Fancy Like Walker Hayes, which reached Apple TV's top 5.