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Issue link: https://digital.macdirectory.com/i/1299064
reduced until everyone can feel safe and really enjoy it without wondering … if. Some movie producers had the “muscle” to insist on theatre viewings but a lot of outstanding projects went directly to streaming, racking up exceptional audience numbers and sales. When every filmmaker started out, theatrical releases were important. Today, with global streaming services, many question if the global theatrical business model can no longer scale. Especially as relationships and regional options of D2C have begun to increase in size, delivery and audience engagement strength. While services like Netflix, Disney, Amazon, Apple haven’t had to introduce themselves to European and APAC consumers; others including Vudu, Pluto and Tubi (all AVOD services) have to market/introduce themselves, reach regional agreements and promote themselves as great alternatives to folks everywhere. Regional European services have lobbied for – and received – regulations on large US players including strict content release windows and funding contributions for local production which have leveled the opportunities for local services. “The EU streamers are starting to really gain traction, both in their programing and reach,” McLennan noted. “They are beginning to and will continue to benefit from a rapidly expanding streaming market.” The market will experience double-digit growth over the next few years with total Western Europe SVOD revenues hitting $9.5B this year, double that of last year. Eastern and Western Europe will add more than 54M subscribers over the next five years; and as with US consumers, will be stacking services onto their present Netflix, Amazon, Disney services. “The tide raises all boats,” McLennan noted. McLennan added, “The key for these services is to not just offer a service, it’s in providing tremendous value in their pricing, great content, a smart user interface and marketing it right. It won’t simply fall into their laps. They’ll need exactly the right balance.” European TV networks are typically regional in nature. For example, the Nordics, who are at least a decade ahead of the rest of the world, have learned how to leverage subtle cultural and language differences to enhance their logistical details, efforts and costs. A regionalized approach is also necessary in the Asia/Pacific (APAC) market. Because of severe governmental restrictions, iQiyi/Bidui, Tencent and Youku Tudou have the world’s second largest content viewing market almost to themselves. However, there are signs that relationships may be challenged now with services like Disney, Amazon and Apple that already have deep relationships in those regions which will help open the viewing market.