The Entertainment Industry - An Intersection of Art and Commerce

Catalog description

In this seminar, we will explore the intersection of art and commerce in the entertainment industry. We will look at the media landscape and methods of creating films, television programming, and other creative endeavors that have the potential for commercial success and/or are artistically meaningful. The industry is continually changing as a result of the rapid spread of AI, new business models, changing viewing preferences, the rise of microdramas and other short-form programming, highly successful international content, and expanding markets. The entertainment industry is one of enormous importance, both from a business and cultural standpoint, and has influence on virtually every sphere of our society. The seminar will cover the entertainment industry's current state and where it may be heading. Sometimes the industry can seem baffling, mercurial, and characterized more by madness than method. But despite its uncertainties, Hollywood does have its own rules, rhythms, and strategies - and examining and evaluating them will be covered in this course. The seminar will look at entertainment industry power and the evolving relationship between Silicon Valley and Hollywood that is a key component in creating the future of entertainment. We will also cover major international markets, video games, social changes occurring in the industry, and the importance of leaders creating workplaces and entertainment content that are ethical and inclusive. The use of the media in the social sphere will also be part of the course. Fundamentally, this is a business, and those providing funding do so hoping for healthy profits, but because of the size of the megaphone the industry possesses, there is tremendous opportunity to use this soft power for social good. Films and television series can reach audiences of staggering sizes and have moved the needle on a wide array of social…