Is Tom Rothman the Key to Saving Movie Theaters and Rescuing the Future of Film?

In a world where movie theaters are facing unprecedented challenges, could Tom Rothman hold the key to their salvation and the future of film? Find out how this executive is shaping the industry in our latest article.

Tom Rothman’s Traditionalist Approach in a Streaming World

While major studios chase the streaming revolution pioneered by Netflix, Sony Motion Pictures Group chairman Tom Rothman sticks to traditional methods. His focus on turning movies into culturally significant entities through aggressive marketing has borne fruit. His prediction that Wall Street would soon see subscriber growth as a superficial metric and profit as the true indicator of success is gaining validation.

The Importance of Big Screens in the Digital Age

Rothman passionately believes that films must emotionally connect with audiences in theaters. He asserts that while different mediums like VHS, HBO, and streaming platforms were once considered threats, they ultimately added value to movies. In the same vein, he sees streaming as an opportunity, not a death knell for theaters.

Evolving Audience Expectations

Reflecting on his extensive career, Rothman observed that the industry has undergone an “evolution,” shifting from “good is good enough” to “great is essential.” As audience tastes evolve, so must the quality of films. Great storytelling and cultural relevance now form the pillars of a successful film. The success of movies like “Oppenheimer” and “Barbie” underscores that originality and bold creativity can still captivate audiences.

Balancing IP and Original Content

Rothman recognizes the current dominance of IP-based movies but predicts a shift towards originality. The saturation of movies derived from comics, games, and toys may wane, making room for fresh, culturally significant films. Sony is betting on this trend by backing innovative filmmakers and unique projects, signaling a potential exit from the “tyranny of IP.”

The Role of Stars in Modern Cinema

Contrary to the belief that streaming services create stars, Rothman maintains that only movies have that power. Stars will always be essential, but their value hinges on great material and visionary directors. This synergy attracts top talent and ensures that movies not only open strong but also endure in cultural relevance.

Economic and Marketing Strategies

Rothman advocates for more efficient marketing strategies, emphasizing digital platforms like TikTok over traditional TV. This approach is not only cost-effective but also resonates with younger audiences. He also calls for more flexible pricing models in theaters to make moviegoing a more accessible experience for families and young people.

The Necessity of Lowering Production Costs

The industry’s escalating production costs have made it risk-averse, hindering originality. Rothman advises employing fiscal discipline as a creative tool, allowing for groundbreaking storytelling while managing budgets efficiently. He argues that this balance is crucial for long-term success.

The Legacy and Stability of Sony

With Sony’s rich history and substantial film library, Rothman believes the studio is well-positioned to take creative risks. This stability allows for bold ventures like “Once Upon a Time…in Hollywood,” affirming that a strong historical foundation enables future innovation.

The Absence of a Sony Streaming Service

Despite lacking its own streaming service, Sony has managed to thrive as a strategic content supplier. Rothman argues that this model has saved the company from massive financial losses and positioned its content as extremely valuable. This “burn the boats” mentality ensures that every theatrical release must be a winner.

Future Prospects and Challenges

The pressure remains on Rothman to make his upcoming films not just good but exceptional. His ability to balance big IP projects with original, adventurous content could determine the future of movie theaters and the film industry at large.
Tom Rothman’s approach navigates the fine line between tradition and innovation, aiming to keep the magic of the big screen alive while adapting to new audience behaviors and market realities.