We had a huge crowd at this past Monday night's VideoSchmooze in NYC who were treated to an in-depth discussion about whether online video is shifting to the paid model, as well as a high-energy hour and half of networking and drinks.
With the NYC event behind us, I'm very pleased to unveil the first West Coast VideoSchmooze event - a breakfast in LA on June 15th at the ultra luxurious SLS Hotel at Beverly Hills. We have an incredible group of executives who will discuss "How Hollywood Succeeds in the Digital Distribution Era:"
Darcy Antonellis - President, Technology Operations, Warner Bros. Home Entertainment
Albert Cheng - EVP, Digital Media, Disney/ABC Television Group
Gannon Hall - Chief Operating Officer, Kyte
Ted Sarandos - Chief Content Officer, Netflix
Ben Weinberger - CEO and Co-Founder, Digitalsmiths
Darcy, Albert and Ted are all key leaders driving the digital agenda at their respective companies. Among other things, Warner Bros. has led on day-and-date VOD distribution. Disney/ABC has been the most innovative of the broadcast TV networks in pursuing digital outlets, going back to their original iTunes deal. And of course Netflix, which I've written about often, has completely reinvented its model with Watch Instantly streaming. Meanwhile Ben's and Gannon's companies (which are co-lead sponsors of the breakfast), are each providing digital building block technologies to the industry and have in-depth knowledge of Hollywood's requirements and strategies.
For anyone in or around the Hollywood ecosystem, this is a must-attend breakfast, with ample time for networking included. I look forward to seeing you there!