Apple Original Sci-Fi; Netflix Wins A24’s Trigger Point; Paramount Plots Call of Duty Franchise; Lionsgate Leverages 20K-Title Library

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Apple Original Sci-Fi; Netflix Wins A24’s Trigger Point; Paramount Plots Call of Duty Franchise; Lionsgate Leverages 20K-Title Library

Apple’s sci-fi ambitions, Netflix’s A24 win, Paramount’s Call of Duty plans, and Lionsgate’s vast library make headlines!

Welcome to the Latest Edition of Vitrina’s Global Entertainment Supply-Chain Digest!

Netflix’s victory in the A24 bidding war for Trigger Point sets the tone this week — a clear signal that premium action-crime IP is becoming the next global battleground. From Apple and Sony doubling down on high-concept book worlds to Universal reviving The Mummy with its original stars, the industry’s biggest players are sharpening their franchise arsenals. And CAA’s acquisition of Beanstalk — creating the world’s largest brand licensing agency — underscores how aggressively the ecosystem is reorganizing behind the scenes.

🎬 Whether you’re tracking co-production deals, streaming debuts, or unscripted formats, every move is a signal. And every signal is an opportunity—if you know what it means.

And every signal is your edge — if you know how to act on it.
Let’s get you caught up.👇

IP Deals

Hottest IP [Stories, Formats, Books, Games, Podcasts] to be turned into the next big blockbuster

Apple Original Films Acquires Sci-Fi Manuscript Fallen Astronaut for Apple TV+ Adaptation.
Apple Original Films has acquired the film adaptation rights to the unpublished sci-fi novel manuscript, “Fallen Astronaut,” by authors J S Mayank and David Carlyle in a high six-figure deal. The project, described as a “tech-forward concept” revolving around VR, is set to be produced by Scott Glassgold of 1201 Films and will premiere on the Apple TV+ platform. Mayank and Carlyle will serve as Executive Producers. The deal, reportedly secured ahead of a publishing rights auction, occurred around November 2025.
Major Best-Selling Fantasy Book Series Lands At Sony For Adaptation
Sony Pictures has officially secured the film adaptation rights for the highly-prized fantasy book series, ‘Hierarchy’, from author James Islington. The studio’s acquisition of this intellectual property (IP) asset follows the notable commercial success of the series’ second installment, ‘The Strength of the Few’, which debuted at No. 1 on the New York Times best-seller list following its November 11 release.The first book is ‘The Will of the Many’. The project, intended to launch a major cinematic franchise, will be overseen by studio executives Peter Kang and Louie Provost. This strategic move significantly bolsters Sony’s content pipeline for future theatrical releases and streaming platforms. (🇺🇸)
Content Pipeline Boost: Almighty Motion Picture Secures Audio-Visual Rights for High-Value True-Crime IP, ‘Mission Saudi’.
Almighty Motion Picture has successfully acquired the audio-visual rights for the non-fiction true-crime book, ‘Mission Saudi’, authored by Aloke Lal and Maanas Lal. This strategic acquisition injects a compelling, high-demand intellectual property (IP) into the producer’s content pipeline.The project is set to depict the intricate investigation led by IPS Officer Merin Joseph, which resulted in India’s first extradition of a rape accused from Saudi Arabia. The title ‘Mission Saudi’ will detail the complex and landmark case. The rights deal secures the narrative for adaptation into a major series or film for streaming platforms or television channels. This move significantly strengthens Almighty Motion Picture’s upcoming slate of true-story content. (🇮🇳)
IP Acquisition: Amasia Entertainment Secures Multimedia Franchise Rights to ‘The Complete Idiot’s Guide’ from Major Publishing Houses.
Amasia Entertainment has successfully acquired the multimedia franchise rights to the extensive non-fiction book series, ‘The Complete Idiot’s Guide’, marking a significant strategic move to expand its content library. The intellectual property (IP) was purchased from the original publishers, Penguin Random House and DK’s Alpha Books.This acquisition enables Amasia to develop the widely recognized instructional brand into various entertainment projects, including potential films, television series, and content for streaming platforms. This move is anticipated to revitalize the brand across multiple distribution channels, demonstrating the growing demand for adapting non-fiction literary assets. (🇺🇸)

Major IP Transfer: Paramount Secures Global Development and Distribution Rights for ‘Call of Duty’ Live-Action Film Franchise.
Paramount, a Skydance Corporation, has finalized a landmark film deal with Microsoft-owned Activision to secure the exclusive rights to develop, produce, and distribute a live-action film and potential franchise based on the globally recognized video game series, ‘Call of Duty’. The agreement, announced on September 2, 2025, sees the Buyer (Paramount) gaining a major piece of military-action IP from the Seller (Activision).Paramount CEO David Ellison stated the studio will honor the game’s intense action legacy while expanding the universe to new audiences. The first film is anticipated to be a major theatrical release. Rob Kostich, President of Activision, confirmed their commitment to collaborating on the cinematic vision. (🇺🇸)

Production + Seasonal Renewal

Sneak peak into recently announced production projects worldwide

Easy Tiger Secures International Co-Production and Distribution for ‘Treasure & Dirt’; ABC, BBC Partner on Six-Part Chris Hammer Thriller.
Australian production house Easy Tiger has commenced filming on the six-part crime drama, ‘Treasure & Dirt’, in South Australia. The series is a major co-production for Australian buyer ABC, in association with the BBC, and is supported by the South Australian Film Corporation.The story, adapted by Executive Producer Matt Cameron from the Chris Hammer novel, centers on Detective Ivan Lucic (Michael Dorman) and rural detective Nell Buchanan (Liv Hewson) investigating a gruesome murder in an isolated opal mining town.Rebecca Summerton is producing, with Madeleine Gottlieb directing. Sphere Abacus is handling worldwide distribution, leveraging the involvement of the BBC for guaranteed international channel access. The series is currently filming across locations like Coober Pedy. (🇦🇺)
Netflix Secures High-Value Limited Series IP; Peter Morgan, World Productions Lead Premium Scripted Content Acquisition.
Netflix has ordered the five-part limited series ‘The Boys From Brazil’, a premium drama adaptation of the Ira Levin novel. The high-value content acquisition secured major talent, including A-list writer Peter Morgan (The Crown), ensuring a high-quality delivery for the platform.London-based studio houses World Productions and Orchid Pictures are confirmed as the sellers. The core cast features Jeremy Strong, who plays Nazi hunter Yakov Liebermann, supported by Daniel Brühl, Gillian Anderson, Shira Haas, and Lizzy Caplan.Executive Producers are Suzanne Mackie and Simon Heath. Production is set to commence next month across a four-country logistical span: the UK, Germany, Bulgaria, and Spain, accelerating the platform’s European scripted pipeline. (🇬🇧)
Universal Re-Acquires Legacy Talent for ‘The Mummy 4’ Theatrical Sequel; Radio Silence Duo to Direct Franchise Revival, Bypassing Prior Canon.
Universal Pictures is advancing its content slate with the development of a legacy sequel to ‘The Mummy’, securing the return of original stars Brendan Fraser and Rachel Weisz. Fraser confirmed his 20-year wait to make the film story he originally intended, signaling a positive commitment to the franchise’s original vision and fan demand.The theatrical sequel will be directed by the acclaimed Radio Silence duo, Matt Bettinelli-Olpin and Tyler Gillett, from a script by David Coggeshall. The studio, the content buyer, has veteran Producer Sean Daniel overseeing the project. Importantly, the new installment is confirmed to disregard the continuity of the third film.This content acquisition leverages significant A-list talent and a globally recognized IP. The reunion of Fraser and Weisz as Rick O’Connell and Evelyn Carnahan is a major win for the distributor, Universal, positioning the film as a high-priority, nostalgia-driven blockbuster. (🇺🇸)
FX/Disney Commits to Premium Content: Renews Sci-Fi Series ‘Alien: Earth’ for Second Season
FX Networks, a division of buyer Disney Entertainment Television, has successfully renewed the popular sci-fi drama series ‘Alien: Earth’ for a second season. This major content recommitment ensures the continued longevity of the valuable franchise IP on the network and its digital channels.The renewal was announced in conjunction with series creator and showrunner Noah Hawley signing a new overall deal with FX, securing his exclusive development pipeline. Important returning cast includes Sydney Chandler, Alex Lawther, and Timothy Olyphant.’Alien: Earth’ is set to continue its run on the FX channel and stream on Hulu, leveraging key talent and a strong genre brand. This move solidifies Hawley’s creative partnership with the distributor, FX/Disney, for future premium projects. (🇺🇸)
International Distribution Deal Finalized for Irish Animation IP ‘Flix,’ Ensuring Global Market Access for 26-Episode Second Season.
Irish studio Pictor Productions has begun production on a 26-episode second season of the animated comedy, ‘Flix – by Tomi Ungerer’, substantially increasing its content slate volume. The series was commissioned by buyer RTÉ, the Irish public broadcaster, securing a successful programming block for the RTÉjr platform. Production is supported by Screen Ireland.The new season, which targets children aged 4-7, is slated for delivery by January 2026, with the premiere scheduled for RTÉ in Spring 2026. Serious Kids is confirmed as the distributor, managing international sales of the 26-episode package and broadening global market reach, ensuring profitable distribution.The series follows the unique adventures of Flix, a pug dog raised by cats. Aria Ungerer, CEO of Pictor Productions, is the Creative Producer. RTÉ Head of Content, Suzanne Kelly, praised the show’s success, noting its positive appeal and originality. (🇮🇪)

That’s a Wrap: Filming Is Complete!

Projects that have concluded filming are now moving into post-production

Studio Secures Tentpole Content: ‘Scary Movie 6’ Wraps Production in Atlanta
The highly anticipated comedy sequel, ‘Scary Movie 6’, has successfully completed principal photography in Atlanta, signifying a major milestone in the production schedule. The project, which represents a key content acquisition, has now entered post-production ahead of its planned theatrical debut.The film is directed by Michael Tiddes and is written by franchise veterans Keenen Ivory Wayans, Marlon Wayans, and Rick Alvarez. Returning stars include Anna Faris, Regina Hall, and Marlon Wayans, leveraging high-profile legacy talent.This sequel is expected to hit the market in June 2026, offering a major summer theatrical release for the distributor/studio. The completion of filming ensures the project is on track to meet the established distribution date. (🇺🇸)
Insidious 6′ Wraps Principal Photography in Melbourne, Sony Pictures Locks In August 2026 Global Theatrical Release.
The horror sequel ‘Insidious 6’ has completed its two-month principal photography schedule in Melbourne, Australia, signaling a smooth production timeline. The completion of filming confirms a valuable content volume addition to the distributor’s pipeline, bolstering the horror genre slate.The film is directed by Jacob Chase and will feature the return of franchise mainstay Lin Shaye, alongside Amelia Eve and Brandon Perea. The production utilized local talent and resources, underscoring Australia’s competitive production incentives.Sources, including Blumhouse, confirm that Sony Pictures is expected to theatrically release the project globally on August 21, 2026. This firm date positions the sequel as a major summer tentpole for the distributor. (🇦🇺)
Evil Dead Burn’ Wraps New Zealand Shoot; Warner Bros./Sony Pictures Lock In July 2026 Global Theatrical Release Date.
The horror sequel ‘Evil Dead Burn’ has successfully wrapped its two-month filming schedule in New Zealand, securing a key content volume delivery for the franchise. Ghost House Pictures is producing, with franchise producers Sam Raimi and Rob Tapert overseeing the project.The film, directed by Sébastien Vaniček, stars Souheila Yacoub, Hunter Doohan, Luciane Buchanan, and Tandi Wright. It continues the successful standalone format established by the previous installment, leveraging fresh talent within a recognized horror IP.The distributor roles are split: Warner Bros. Pictures handles North American sales, while Sony Pictures Releasing International manages global territories. The theatrical release date is firmly set for July 24, 2026, positioning the content strategically for the summer market. (🇺🇸)
The Walking Dead: Daryl Dixon’ Wraps Eight-Episode Final Season in Spain, Targeting Fall 2026 Premiere on AMC/AMC+.
AMC, the primary content buyer and distributor, has wrapped production on the fourth and final eight-episode season of the spin-off series ‘The Walking Dead: Daryl Dixon’. Filming concluded in Spain on November 20, 2025, securing the final content delivery for the flagship franchise.The series is produced by AMC Studios and Skybound Entertainment. Star Norman Reedus, who announced the wrap, concludes his 15-year run. Melissa McBride (Carol Peletier), Eduardo Noriega, and Óscar Jaenada are also cast, ensuring a high-quality farewell.The final content package is set to premiere on the AMC channel and its streaming platform AMC+ in Fall 2026. Executive Producers Scott M. Gimple and David Zabel oversaw the production, concluding the story of the beloved character. (🇺🇸)
HBO Max Production Milestone: Nine-Month Shoot for Highly Anticipated ‘Euphoria’ Season 3 Concludes
The nine-month production on the highly anticipated third season of HBO Max’s drama series, ‘Euphoria’, has officially wrapped, signaling a major milestone for the Warner Bros. Discovery (🇺🇸) distribution pipeline. Star Sydney Sweeney confirmed the conclusion of filming, which began in February 2025 and involved an extended schedule, ensuring the content is now secured for its post-production phase.The series, created by Sam Levinson, will see the return of main cast members including Zendaya, Sydney Sweeney, and Hunter Schafer. The production also featured new cast additions, notably veteran actors Natasha Lyonne and Sharon Stone, bolstering the star-power of the series for the platform’s offering.This completion of the physical production schedule positions the eight-episode season for its planned premiere on the HBO Max platform in spring 2026. As a Buyer and Distributor, HBO Max (USA) secures this highly valuable, star-studded intellectual property, which is one of its most-watched series.

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Distribution Deals

Distributors securing worldwide content across different genres, languages and format types

Janus Films Acquires US Distribution Rights to Nathan Silver’s ‘Carol & Joy’ Doc, Securing Content for Criterion Channel and Launching Oscar Campaign
Janus Films (USA), a major art-house Distributor and Buyer, has successfully acquired the US distribution rights for the short documentary ‘Carol & Joy’, directed by Nathan Silver. The acquisition includes plans for a strategic Oscar qualification campaign, immediately securing the film as a high-value piece of intellectual property for the company’s distribution slate.The short documentary, which follows the intimate bond between actress Carol Kane and her 98-year-old mother Joy, is a significant highlight for the Janus catalog. The production is backed by Natalie Portman’s banner, MountainA, adding high-profile creative support to the short-form content.This distribution deal ensures that the documentary, which premiered at the Telluride Film Festival, will be made available to audiences through Janus Films, with a confirmed streaming date of December 1 on the Criterion Channel platform, bolstering the platform’s premium offering. (🇺🇸)
Blacktop International Secures Worldwide Sales Rights for Kurt Martin’s Psychological Horror ‘The Room Below.’
Blacktop International (🇺🇸), a global sales Seller led by JD Beaufils, has acquired the worldwide sales rights for the psychological creature horror film ‘The Room Below’. The project, which has now wrapped its principal photography in Sydney, is currently in post-production and is being introduced to Buyers at the American Film Market (AFM) 2025 ahead of its planned 2026 release.The film, written and directed by Kurt Martin, stars Alyssa Sutherland (Evil Dead Rise), Jonathan Rhys Meyers (The Tudors), and Gilbert Bradman. The story centers on a grieving children’s book author who encounters a mysterious creature as her sense of reality begins to fracture, attracting the attention of a retired detective.Lunar Pictures (Australia) and its producers Jim Robison and Chris Chard partnered with Blacktop International to secure the film’s global distribution access. This agreement ensures that the elevated horror content reaches international markets, capitalizing on the genre’s appeal and the film’s strong cast. (🇦🇺)
Dekanalog Acquires US Theatrical Distribution Rights for Gabriel Mascaro’s Silver Bear-Winning Dystopian Drama ‘The Blue Trail,’ Securing Key Spring 2026 Arthouse Content
Dekanalog (USA), the New York-based Distributor and Buyer, has successfully acquired the US theatrical distribution rights for the Brazilian dystopian drama ‘The Blue Trail’ (Original title: O Último Azul). The acquisition of the Silver Bear Grand Jury Prize winner, directed by Gabriel Mascaro, secures a major arthouse title to headline the distributor’s spring 2026 theatrical slate.The film, produced by Desvia Filmes (🇧🇷) and Cinevinay (🇲🇽), follows the 77-year-old Tereza (played by Denise Weinberg) who defies a government mandate to relocate the elderly to distant colonies. She embarks on a transformative journey through the Amazon to fulfill a final wish, with Rodrigo Santoro co-starring.International sales Seller Lucky Number (🇫🇷) brokered the deal, positioning the critically acclaimed picture for a wide release to US audiences. This theatrical launch strategically follows the film’s world premiere at the 75th Berlin International Film Festival in February 2025 and its successful festival run. (🇺🇸)
UK-Based MetFilm Sales Secures Global Distribution Pipeline for Venice Golden Globes Impact Prize Winner ‘Remake’ at IDFA Market
MetFilm Sales (UK), acting as the international sales Seller, has acquired the global distribution rights for the documentary ‘Remake’. The film, directed and produced by Ross McElwee for Giant Squid, debuted out of competition at the Venice Film Festival, where it won the Golden Globes Impact Prize and the Bisato d’Oro critics award.This acquisition secures a prestigious festival winner for the global market.The documentary, which was produced by Mark Meatto and Ross McElwee in association with Impact Partners, uses decades of personal footage to trace McElwee’s complex relationship with his late son, Adrian, providing deeply personal content.The Seller formally launched sales for the title at the International Documentary Film Festival Amsterdam (IDFA), signaling the project is ready for acquisition by international Buyers. North American rights are being handled separately by Cinetic Media. (🇬🇧)
Panorama Studio International Secures Theatrical Distribution Rights for ‘Drishyam 3,’ Guaranteeing Wide Release of Mohanlal-Led Franchise Sequel
Panorama Studio International Ltd (India), acting as the theatrical Buyer and Distributor, has successfully acquired the theatrical distribution rights for the highly anticipated film ‘Drishyam 3’. The rights were secured from Aashirvad Cinemas, the film’s Seller and producer, guaranteeing the release of the latest installment in this commercially successful franchise.This distribution deal ensures that the film, starring main cast members Mohanlal, Meena, and Ansiba, is officially confirmed for its planned theatrical run across distribution territories. The film, which continues the plot of the previous crime thrillers, is currently in pre-production.The content acquisition is a key move to capitalize on the franchise’s popularity, securing a major box-office draw for Panorama’s slate. This deal confirms the project’s transition into the final distribution phase following its production. (🇮🇳)

Acquisition Deals

Streamers & channels acquiring latest content across the world

Mubi Acquires Key International Rights to Cannes Winner ‘The Mysterious Gaze of the Flamingo,’ Solidifying Global Art-House Distribution for Chilean Oscar Entry
Mubi (UK), the global streaming service and Buyer, has acquired the international distribution rights (excluding North America, Spain, and other co-production territories) for the Chilean film ‘The Mysterious Gaze of the Flamingo’.The film, directed by Diego Céspedes, was sold by international sales Seller Charades (🇫🇷) and premiered at the 2025 Cannes Film Festival where it won the Un Certain Regard Award.The acclaimed queer drama, which is also Chile’s official submission for the Best International Feature Film Oscar, features a strong ensemble cast including Tamara Cortés and Matías Catalán. The story is a modern Western set in a 1982 Chilean mining town, where a mysterious illness leads to prejudice against a queer family.This sale strategically places the film’s international release under Mubi, while Altered Innocence (🇺🇸) will handle the separate domestic distribution rights in the US. The multi-territory deal ensures the festival favorite will have both a theatrical run (late 2025/early 2026) and be a premium streaming title. (🇬🇧)
Sphere Abacus Sells Canadian Hockey Romance Series ‘Heated Rivalry’ to HBO Max
The Canadian-produced, six-episode hockey romance series ‘Heated Rivalry’ has been acquired by the Buyer/Distributor HBO Max (USA) for streaming rights in the US and Australia. The sale was brokered by international sales Seller Sphere Abacus (🇨🇦). The series, created by Jacob Tierney and based on the novel by Rachel Reid, is a significant international content deal for the Canadian production sector.The drama, which follows the secret, long-term affair between professional hockey rivals Shane Hollander and Ilya Rozanov, stars Hudson Williams and Connor Storrie. The six-episode production is an original series for Canadian streamer Crave, produced by Accent Aigu Entertainment in association with Bell Media’s Crave.The content’s highly anticipated premiere is scheduled for November 28, simultaneously launching on the HBO Max platform in the acquired territories and on Crave in Canada. This major international sale demonstrates the high demand for premium, buzzy scripted content globally. (🇺🇸)
BBC Secures UK Rights to Australian Crime Drama ‘Dustfall’ from Federation International, Bolstering BBC One and iPlayer Content Slate
The BBC (UK), acting as the Buyer and Distributor for the UK, has acquired the six-part Australian crime drama series ‘Dustfall’ for its flagship BBC One channel and the BBC iPlayer streaming platform. The acquisition was brokered with international Seller Federation International (🇫🇷), ensuring a key international drama secures a top-tier UK distribution slot.The series, formerly titled The Unbelieved, is based on the bestselling novel by Vikki Petraitis and centers on the disturbing discoveries made in a Victorian regional town. The production features a compelling lead performance from Emmy-nominated Australian actress Anna Torv (The Last of Us).This deal strengthens the BBC’s premium content offering for 2026, delivering high-quality, exclusive international content to UK viewers across both linear and digital platforms. The series is produced by Easy Tiger (🇦🇺) and Fifth Season for Stan (🇦🇺), demonstrating a robust global content pipeline. (🇬🇧)
MHz Choice Secures North American Distribution Rights for Icelandic Crime Thriller ‘Reykjavík Fusion,’ Bolstering Premium Nordic Content Lineup
MHz Choice (USA), a specialty streaming service and Buyer of international content, has acquired the exclusive North American distribution rights for the six-episode Icelandic crime thriller series ‘Reykjavík Fusion’. The deal was secured from global Seller and production company Wild Sheep Content (USA), ensuring the series reaches a targeted US and Canadian audience.The series, directed by Ragnar Bragason, stars renowned Icelandic actor Ólafur Darri Ólafsson (True Detective). He plays a celebrated chef who desperately becomes entangled in a money-laundering scheme after his health fails, making the plot a high-stakes, character-driven narrative.This key acquisition significantly enhances MHz Choice’s premium foreign-language programming slate, particularly its Nordic Noir offering. The show, which is currently in production in Iceland, is expected to premiere in 2026, solidifying its position in the distributor’s future content library. (🇺🇸)
Netflix Wins Bidding War for A24’s Eight-Episode Action-Crime Series ‘Trigger Point,’ Securing Premium Joel Edgerton-Led Content
Netflix (USA), the global Buyer and Distributor, has won a competitive bidding war against rivals like Apple TV+, securing the eight-episode action-crime drama series ‘Trigger Point’ with a straight-to-series order. The content package was sold by the renowned studio house A24 (USA), which developed the project for the marketplace.The series, which follows former Tier One Special Forces Operators who sell their skills to the criminal underworld, is a major acquisition for the platform. The project stars Joel Edgerton as the group’s leader, Red, and features Harrison Query as showrunner and writer, with Jeremy Saulnier attached to direct and executive produce.This significant purchase solidifies Netflix’s scripted slate and continues its successful partnership with A24, following the Emmy-winning series Beef. The deal ensures high-profile, producer-driven content is secured for the streaming platform’s global distribution. (🇺🇸)

Partnerships / M&A

Cross-Border Collaborations, Joint Ventures, M&A and Partnerships!

Sphere Media and Zone 3 Merge in Strategic Alliance, Creating Canadian Production Superpower to Scale Global Content Distribution
Major Canadian Producer-Distributors Sphere Media (Canada) and Zone 3 (Canada) have announced a strategic merger, uniting two of the country’s most prominent content creation houses. The deal, which aims to promote their creations and get closer to the global giants, integrates their French- and English-language scripted and unscripted television content for the international market.The combined entity significantly boosts the content supply chain, bringing together a deep library that includes acclaimed series like the Netflix production ‘Wayward’ (from Sphere Media) and popular unscripted formats such as Family Feud Canada (from Zone 3). The merger’s financial details were not disclosed.This consolidation in the Seller and production space is designed to inject new creative and commercial energy, supporting global expansion and collaboration with partners worldwide. The merger is a strategic response to increasing content demand and a move to enhance Canadian influence on the international distribution landscape. (🇨🇦)
NEON Secures Multi-Year Co-Production Pact with Qatar’s Film Committee, Fueling Pipeline of Six to Ten Feature Films for Global Distribution
NEON (USA), a prominent independent studio and Distributor, has entered into a strategic co-development, co-production, and co-financing agreement with the Qatar Film Committee (🇶🇦) at Media City. This four-year partnership, a major global content alignment, aims to produce six to ten feature films focusing on high-quality Arabic-language storytelling.Under the terms of the deal, NEON will manage the global distribution for all resulting projects. The first feature film identified in the slate is the project ‘Caesar’, marking a significant entry point for the collaborative content pipeline between the US and Middle Eastern markets.The alliance positions NEON as a Buyer/Distributor of diverse international intellectual property while securing co-funding. This deal highlights the rising strategic role of Middle Eastern media entities as co-producers for high-value films destined for worldwide release. (🇺🇸)
Figma Acquires AI-Powered Media Generator Weavy, Rebrands to ‘Figma Weave’ to Accelerate Integration of Generative AI in Professional Design Workflows
Design software giant Figma (USA), the Buyer, has completed the strategic acquisition of Weavy, an AI-powered image and video generation platform. Figma has immediately rebranded the new division as ‘Figma Weave’, signaling a rapid integration into its core software ecosystem to enhance its product offering for professional designers.The acquisition of the Seller Weavy centers on integrating its advanced node-based tools, which provide users with granular control over AI-generated media. This technology aims to accelerate the blending of traditional professional design workflows with sophisticated generative AI capabilities.This move is a significant investment by Figma to secure cutting-edge AI technology, enabling the creation and manipulation of images and video directly within their platform. The acquisition ensures Figma remains competitive by delivering high-demand generative AI content features to its global Buyers/Users. (🇺🇸)
Warner Bros. Expands Experiential Distribution with Cosm, Slating ‘Harry Potter and the Sorcerer’s Stone’ for Shared Reality Immersion in Q2 2026
Warner Bros. Pictures (USA), a major Seller of premium content, has expanded its strategic partnership with immersive entertainment company Cosm (USA) to debut the film ‘Harry Potter and the Sorcerer’s Stone’ in the innovative “Shared Reality” format. This move leverages classic IP to drive audiences to Cosm’s specialized venues, following previous successful releases of ‘The Matrix’.The immersive version of the 2001 classic, which stars Daniel Radcliffe, Emma Watson, and Rupert Grint, is being specially produced with Little Cinema and MakeMake Entertainment for Cosm’s 87-foot diameter 12K+ LED dome theaters. This process redefines the content experience for a new, high-value distribution window.The “Shared Reality” experience, which celebrates the film’s 25th anniversary, is expected to launch in Q2 2026 at Cosm venues in Los Angeles and Dallas, with tickets going on sale in early 2026. This partnership signals the studio’s strategy to maximize library value through event-based exhibition ahead of the 2027 HBO Max reboot. (🇺🇸)
Hammer Films Owner John Gore Studios Acquires Rival Tyburn Film Productions, Consolidating UK Genre IP Catalog
John Gore Studios (UK), the holding company and Buyer that owns the iconic Hammer Films brand, has acquired UK genre producer Tyburn Film Productions Limited (UK) and its entire film and television catalog. This strategic acquisition is part of a plan to revitalize and consolidate iconic horror and genre content intellectual property (IP).The deal instantly integrates Tyburn’s library, which includes horror titles such as ‘The Creeping Flesh’ starring Peter Cushing, into the Hammer Films family. This move strengthens the combined entity’s position as a major Seller and producer of classic British genre content.By bringing together these two historic British film producers, John Gore Studios accelerates its strategy of IP renewal and future content generation, ensuring a robust slate of both legacy and new horror projects for global distribution. (🇬🇧)

What’s driving the 25x returns in India’s regional cinema? Get the exclusive breakdown — only at Vitrina.

Companies Making Headlines

Launch and Expansions of facilities, studios, services & technologies

Content Monetization Pivot: Lionsgate & Debmar-Mercury Launch ‘MovieSphere Gold’ Diginet to Maximize 20,000-Title Library Distribution
Lionsgate’s Worldwide TV Distribution Group and syndication partner Debmar-Mercury are launching ‘MovieSphere Gold’, a new premium digital network (diginet). The venture is a strategic move to monetize Lionsgate’s extensive 20,000-title film library, positioning it as the “first premium movie network in the diginet space.”The channel ensures significant content distribution, available to over 30 million US homes through key platforms like DirecTV, Dish TV, Sling Freestream, and Frndly. CBS Media Ventures is managing national advertising sales. The content lineup will feature acclaimed franchises, including ‘The Hunger Games’, ‘Rambo’, ‘Kick Ass’, and ‘The Expendables’.The launch, announced near November 20, 2025, leverages library rights for new revenue streams. Jim Packer (Lionsgate) views this as the “next evolution” in multicast entertainment, offering diverse films. (🇺🇸)
Distribution Channel Expansion: AMC Networks Aggregates Unscripted Content into ‘All Reality’ Streamer, Launching on Prime Video Channels
AMC Networks, acting as the content distributor and seller, has launched a new targeted streaming service named ‘All Reality’ in the US. This service aggregates over 2,500 hours of unscripted content sourced from AMC Networks’ internal brands, including We TV, to maximize monetization of its reality content library.The content includes popular franchises such as ‘Love After Lockup’, ‘The Braxtons’, ‘Mama June’, ‘Bridezillas’, and every season of ‘Growing Up Hip Hop’ and ‘Marriage Boot Camp’. AMC Networks’ decision follows its reality content driving over 10 billion minutes of viewing on free streaming platforms over the past year.’All Reality’ is initially launching via the Prime Video Channels platform, which acts as the buyer/carriage platform, and is priced at US$4.99 per month. Other distribution platforms are expected to be announced later. The launch date was near November 19, 2025. (🇺🇸)
Strategic M&A: Lyrical Media Acquires Line Mileage Team to Scale IP Aggregation and Boost Premium Adult Animated Feature Production
Buyer Lyrical Media acquired Line Mileage to launch Lyrical Animation, a new label focused on premium adult animated features. The M&A action, near November 17, 2025, strategically integrates Line Mileage’s team and expertise into Lyrical’s content supply chain. Alexander Black is CEO.Key personnel joining the division include Jacob Robinson (Head of Lyrical Animation) and Daniel Dominguez (Creative Director). The label will focus on creator-first IP, leveraging the team’s ability to build global fandoms for genre animation.Initial projects slated for the US-based studio include the anime feature adaptation of ‘Death Stranding’, written by Aaron Guzikowski, now preparing to go to market. Also in development is ‘Hell Followed With Us’, an animated feature being developed with Lilly Wachowski. (🇺🇸)
Cross-Border Distribution & Co-Production Boost: IFFM and IFFI Seal Three-Year Partnership to Strengthen India-Australia Screen Sector Access
The Indian Film Festival of Melbourne (IFFM) and the International Film Festival of India (IFFI) sealed a landmark three-year partnership on November 21, 2025, at the 56th IFFI in Goa. The numerous MoUs establish co-production frameworks, distribution access, and academic exchanges, significantly deepening ties between the Australian and Indian screen sectors.Commercial distribution is key, facilitated by PVR Inox (India’s theater chain/buyer) partnering with Mind Blowing Films (Australian seller/distributor) for theatrical releases of Australian films in India. This structure also introduced the WAVES Bazaar-IFFM Co-Distribution Fund to back South Asian films across both nations.Institutional agreements include an MoU between Deakin University and India’s FTII for academic exchange. Mitu Bhowmick Lange (IFFM Director) called the pact transformative, noting the growth for filmmakers. Kamal Gianchandani (PVR Inox CEO) emphasized the market potential. (🇮🇳/🇦🇺)
Licensing Supply Chain Consolidation: CAA Brand Management Acquires Brand Licensing Pioneer Beanstalk to Form World’s Largest Management Agency
Creative Artists Agency (CAA) Brand Management (the buyer) announced an agreement to acquire brand licensing agency Beanstalk (the seller) on November 19, 2025. This M&A deal creates the world’s largest brand development and licensing agency, significantly consolidating the sector’s supply chain for brand extension services. Financial terms were not disclosed.Beanstalk, founded in 1992, specializes across various categories, including entertainment, gaming, food and beverage, and consumer packaged goods. Perry Wolfman (CEO, CAA Brand Management) and Noah Gelbart (President) highlighted the combined entity’s deeper category expertise and broader global footprint.The integration means Beanstalk will become part of CAA Brand Management. Allison Ames, Beanstalk’s CEO, will transition to become Co-President of the merged division, ensuring leadership continuity for key clients like P&G and Kellogg’s. The move is intended to unlock new revenue streams for brand owners globally. (🇺🇸)

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Platform Distribution Surge: TELUS TV+ Expands Multiscreen Reach via 3SS Partnership, Integrating Key Smart TV and BYOD Platforms
Canadian multiservice operator TELUS has significantly expanded the distribution of its super-aggregated entertainment platform, ‘TELUS TV+’, thanks to an ongoing partnership with software provider 3 Screen Solutions (3SS). The expansion focuses on a Bring Your Own Device (BYOD) strategy, broadening the channel’s accessibility for over 1.3 million households.The November 19, 2025 announcement confirms the platform is now available on Samsung and LG Smart TVs, following an earlier rollout on Fire TV devices in April 2025. The service, built on the 3SS 3Ready platform, integrates live TV with streaming services like Netflix, Prime Video, and Disney+ via its ‘Stream+’ tier.Tim Fell, VP of Network Technology & Services DevOps at TELUS, described the move as setting a “new benchmark” for super-aggregated content delivery and improving viewer engagement. This continued collaboration is designed to accelerate delivery and simplify the integration of platforms. (🇨🇦)
Content Creation Efficiency Boost: Epic Games Releases Unreal Engine 5.7, Unveiling New Tools for Procedural Vegetation and Character Production
Epic Games released ‘Unreal Engine 5.7’ on November 12, 2025, delivering several key features to enhance the content supply chain for CG artists in animation, VFX, and visualization. The update makes entire feature sets, like the Procedural Content Generation (PCG) framework, officially production-ready.Five key artist tools include the experimental Procedural Vegetation Editor for custom, Nanite-ready trees, and enhanced MetaHuman Creator support across Linux and macOS. Character workflows are improved with the new Morph Target Viewer for sculpting blendshapes and the Improved Retargeting for seamless animation transfer between characters of different scales.The new AI Assistant provides a generative AI tool within the Unreal Editor to solve technical queries using natural-language commands, boosting development efficiency. Additionally, the Substrate material system reaches production-ready status. (🇺🇸)
Visualization Workflow Upgrade: KeyShot Studio 2025.3 Enhances Post-Production and Cross-Platform Material Fidelity with Cryptomatte & OpenPBR Integration
KeyShot (seller), a CPU and GPU-based ray tracing renderer, released ‘KeyShot Studio 2025.3’ on November 20, 2025, targeting visualization and portfolio artists. The update focuses on improving post-production integration and performance, thereby optimizing the visualization pipeline.The key feature additions are support for Cryptomatte, which simplifies element selection in post-production, and the new open material standard, OpenPBR, intended to ensure consistent material display across supporting applications. These features benefit artists working with DCC platforms like 3ds Max and Maya.Performance is significantly improved, with rendering on AMD GPUs now up to 50% faster. Workflow enhancements include better integration of metadata from CAD applications like Solidworks, and improvements to the AI Shots generative toolset. The software is available via rental subscription. (🇺🇸)
Post-Production Fidelity Leap: SN Display’s ‘Perovskite Color Conversion Film’ Achieves >95% Rec. 2020 Coverage, Redefining Next-Gen Consumer Displays
South Korean firm SN Display received a CES 2026 Innovation Award for its ‘Perovskite Color Conversion Film’, a breakthrough material for next-generation displays. This technology achieves over 95% coverage of the demanding Rec. 2020 color gamut, significantly surpassing the approximately 76% coverage provided by conventional Quantum Dot solutions.This film offers display manufacturers (buyers) a scalable solution via roll-to-roll processing, compatible with existing blue LED backlights without infrastructure overhaul. The technology enables thinner, more energy-efficient panels, delivering ultra-high color purity for formats including TVs, monitors, and tablets.CEO Tae-woo Lee noted the Innovation Award validates the film’s practical industrial application. The company plans to aggressively pursue technology licensing partnerships with global display manufacturers, signaling a positive market disruption in color fidelity technology. (🇰🇷)
Ad Content Automation: Microsoft Advertising Deploys AI-Driven Image Animation Tool to Convert Static Ad Assets into Dynamic Video for Scalable Campaigns
Microsoft Advertising has introduced its Image Animation tool, an AI-driven innovation designed to transform static images into dynamic video advertisements. This development provides a powerful, automated solution for advertisers to repurpose existing assets, enhancing content creation efficiency across the digital advertising supply chain.The tool, currently in a global pilot (excluding mainland China), is integrated within Microsoft’s Copilot in the Advertising Platform and is accessible through Ads Studio’s video templates. It utilizes AI-powered templates to apply engaging animations to static images without requiring significant technical expertise or investment.This strategic move addresses the rising dominance of video content in digital marketing, allowing advertisers (sellers) to scale their campaigns seamlessly across Microsoft’s network of premium video publishers and online placements, thereby boosting engagement and cost efficiency. (🇺🇸)

Localization & Post-Production

Latest updates in the world of content Localization & Post-Production

Digital Garment Content Pipeline Upgrade: CLO Virtual Fashion Releases Marvelous Designer 2025.2, Enhancing Rigid Body and MetaHuman Interoperability
CLO Virtual Fashion (seller) released ‘Marvelous Designer 2025.2’ on November 17, 2025, streamlining the creation of 3D garments for game development, animation, and VFX. The update focuses on enhancing the software’s capability to handle complex physical properties and improve pipeline integration.Key features include the ability to convert 2D patterns into rigid Trims or Accessories, allowing artists to create armor and props attached to clothing. The keyframe animation system has been expanded, letting artists animate properties like Pressure to create inflating objects, such as animated inflatables.For content distribution, the release improves interoperability with Unreal Engine by allowing direct import of MetaHumans in their native .dna format. Additionally, CLO Virtual Fashion announced changes to its Enterprise subscriptions for companies, transitioning away from node-locked licenses starting December 2, 2025. (🇰🇷)
Post-Production Software Distribution: ARRI Launches ‘Film Lab’ OpenFX Plugin to Deliver Authentic Analog Film Emulation for Digital Content Workflows
ARRI announced the ‘ARRI Film Lab’ on November 11, 2025, an OpenFX plugin designed to inject the look and feel of analog film into digital images from any camera. This software distribution innovation draws on ARRI’s decades of expertise in film and digital processing, including its REVEAL Color Science.The plugin, compatible with color grading environments like Resolve, Baselight, and Nuke, offers adjustable settings for key analog characteristics: Grain (simulating 50D, 200T, or 500T stocks), Color (print stocks, bleach bypass), Halation, and Gate Weave. It delivers real-time 4K processing and supports LogC3 and LogC4 workflows.The plugin is available now via RE:Vision Effects (seller/distributor). Importantly, an upcoming firmware update will enable non-destructive, on-set previews of the film look in ARRI’s ALEXA 35 Xtreme and ALEXA 35 cameras. Future support for ACES 2.0 is planned. (🇩🇪)
Enterprise Content Management: Accenture Accelerates Digital Media Supply Chain by Building ‘Video IQ’ on Azure AI Video Indexer for Automated Asset Tagging
Global professional services firm Accenture is transforming its video content supply chain by building the ‘Video IQ’ system on Microsoft Azure AI Video Indexer. This solution addresses the challenge of managing a petabyte of scattered video by automating video analysis, tagging, and migration to Azure storage, thereby eliminating fragmentation and costly storage systems.The Video IQ system acts as an intelligence layer, using Video Indexer to extract metadata, analyze transcripts, and generate summaries using Azure OpenAI. This empowers users to instantly search for highly specific content across its global media archive, which includes approximately 140 broadcast events monthly.Accenture (the buyer/user) anticipates reducing storage and operational costs while enabling its 779,000 employees to access content instantly. The system, which recently went into production, is led by Christopher Lemire, Broadcast and Production Technology Lead. (🇺🇸)
Voice AI Content Expansion: ElevenLabs Establishes Korean Presence to Accelerate Real-Time, Multi-Language Platform Deployment Across High-Tech Asian Market
Voice AI firm ElevenLabs officially launched its operations in South Korea near November 25, 2025, aiming to integrate its technology into everyday life within one of the world’s most connected and innovative markets. The expansion recognizes Korea’s high adoption rate of AI and its global influence in creative industries like K-drama.ElevenLabs’ full audio AI stack—including text-to-speech, dubbing, and voice cloning—now supports over 70 languages. A key product in the Korean push is the Agent Platform, which connects speech recognition, generation, and reasoning into a low-latency, real-time system, integrating directly into enterprise tools like CRM.Sangwon Hong is leading the local team, working with partners such as MBC C&I, ESTsoft, Krafton, and SBS to make Korea a center for voice AI in Asia. The company is committed to responsible use through its 3C Framework (Consent, Control, Compensation). (🇬🇧)
Post-Production Automation: TACHI AI Launches ‘Utility AI’ Platform to Slash Technical Editing Time, Shifting Editor Focus to Creative Curation
TACHI AI announced its emergence from stealth mode on November 11, 2025, debuting a revolutionary AI-powered editing platform for film and TV editors. The software employs Smart Utility AI workflows to automate repetitive tasks like footage review, pulling selects, and assembly, claiming a reduction in post-production time by up to 95 percent.The core of the platform is an intelligent system that analyzes raw media and scripts to detect scenes, organize takes, and structure rough working cuts instantly, including three version generations per scene. This shifts the editor’s role from a technical assembler to a creative curator, according to CEO Aden Bahadori.The platform supports seamless integration with major NLE platforms via XML export and is currently leveraging its foundation to empower visual storytellers across film, TV, commercial, and digital projects. Brett Granstaff serves as COO. A public launch is expected in 2026. (🇺🇸)

Animation, VFX & Virtual Production

Latest global updates in Animation, Visual Effects VFX & Virtual Production

Generative AI Content Acceleration: DeepBrain AI Integrates Sora 2 and Veo 3.1 Engines into ‘AI Studios’ to Deliver Unified, Cinematic Video Production
DeepBrain AI announced on November 17, 2025, the integration of Sora 2 and Veo 3.1 generative engines into its flagship platform, AI Studios. This move creates an all-in-one workspace for high-fidelity, realistic, and fully-scripted video creation, significantly simplifying the content production supply chain.The platform now combines Sora 2’s physics-aware realism for cinematic and simulation-based projects, with Veo 3.1’s fast, studio-grade output, optimized for marketing and business communications. DeepBrain AI’s proprietary technology adds AI avatars, dubbing, and multilingual voice synthesis for over 150 languages.CEO Jang emphasized that the update makes professional-level video creation accessible to everyone by eliminating complexity and large budgets. The combined tools empower video creators, marketers, educators, and enterprises to turn ideas into engaging videos instantly. (🇰🇷)
Post-Production Disruption: Studio Freewillusion Unveils AFX Pipeline in Hollywood, Promising 50%+ Time Reduction in VFX Content Delivery
Seoul-based AI media tech startup Studio Freewillusion (seller) unveiled its proprietary AFX (AI + VFX) pipeline to Hollywood executives on November 18, 2025. This advanced system promises efficiency gains and cost savings by integrating AI-powered generation, compositing, and rendering into post-production workflows.Key components include Neural Rendering Re-Lighting for post-shoot control, Xpanza (AI video outpainting), and Taylor Dub (automated, synchronized dubbing). The pipeline successfully completed over 350 VFX shots for the film ‘Run to the West’ in over 50% less time than traditional methods.The company is overseeing VFX for films like ‘KOBOLD’ (2026 release). Dongwook Cho, AFX Supervisor, stated the technology expands creative possibilities and removes budget barriers for filmmakers (buyers). The platform fundamentally changes the post-production supply chain. (🇰🇷)
Rendering Content Pipeline Revolution: Pixar Releases RenderMan 27, Integrating XPU Hybrid Architecture for Feature Animation Final-Frame Production
Pixar Animation Studios announced the release of RenderMan version 27 on November 13, 2025, calling it the most significant release in a decade. The new version introduces RenderMan XPU, a complete rewrite that functions as a final-frame renderer utilizing both CPU and GPU (NVIDIA RTX PRO) resources for hybrid rendering.The update is designed to accelerate artist workflows and redefine final-frame quality for feature animation and VFX production. XPU (the platform/tool) now supports essential production features like checkpointing for farm management, deep data workflows, and a final Stylized Looks toolset.The new version is fully aligned with the VFX Reference Platform 2024. According to Steve May, CTO at Pixar, XPU was used on ‘Toy Story 5’, giving artists “unprecedented interactivity” for lighting. RenderMan 27 is available for customers on maintenance, with non-commercial access also provided. (🇺🇸)
Software Content Pipeline Refinement: Autodesk Releases 3ds Max 2026.3, Boosting Asset Interoperability via USD and GPU Rendering Performance
Autodesk released the ‘3ds Max 2026.3 Update’, introducing crucial enhancements to the 3D content creation pipeline for animation and VFX professionals. This refinement focuses on asset interoperability and rendering performance, ensuring smoother workflow integration for studios globally.Key improvements include USD for 3ds Max 0.13, which now supports asset management features like duplicating and renaming prims, critically streamlining complex scene assembly. The Arnold for 3ds Max (MAXtoA) renderer updated to 5.8.3.2, featuring a new Inference imager and performance gains in Global Light Sampling and GPU volumes.The Material Switcher gains an animatable material index for dynamic shading control. Furthermore, critical fixes were implemented for the Cloth simulation to restore reliability, ensuring consistent results across versions and reinforcing the dependability of the software for character production. (🇺🇸)
Next-Gen Distribution Architecture: Kiswe Launches Cloud-Based ‘Kiswe Core’ to Automate Multi-Platform Content Delivery for Global Streamers
Kiswe, a global streaming technology leader, announced the launch of ‘Kiswe Core’ on November 18, 2025, a cloud-based platform designed to simplify streaming distribution. This new product allows premier content owners (buyers) to automatically encode, format, authenticate, and reliably deliver multiple unique streams to all their partners from a single source feed.Kiswe Core solves a pain point for content owners dealing with the growing number of streaming destinations, streamlining the production and distribution process in real time. The technology has already proven successful at scale, notably by CJ 4DPLEX to deliver a live broadcast of the 2024 Shinhan SOL Bank KBO Korean Series to SCREENX theaters globally.Kiswe’s existing direct-to-consumer (D2C) solutions are now bundled into ‘Kiswe Connect’. CEO Glenn Booth stated, “Every stream. Every platform. Every time,” summarizing the platform’s goal to give partners total control over their media distribution. (🇺🇸)

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