Over the top: How are demographics and digital technologies changing the entertainment industry?

The discussion centered around the profound impact of the COVID-19 pandemic on the entertainment industry, particularly the drastic shift in revenue streams from movie theater releases to subscription streaming services. The panelists, including Adam Aaron, CEO of AMC Entertainment, and Robert Kinsel, Chief Business Officer of YouTube, highlighted the challenges faced by the industry, such as the closure of theaters and the delay of major movie releases. They also emphasized the accelerated growth of streaming platforms and the evolving audience behavior, with a focus on high-quality content and the democratization of entertainment. The panelists shared their insights on the future trajectory of the industry, projecting a resurgence of movie theater attendance and the growing significance of online commerce and retail democratization tied to video platforms. They also discussed the changing business models and the importance of compelling content in the fiercely competitive landscape.