The Data-Driven Tech Engine at the Heart of Hollywood’s Content Factories

I've thought for a while that if I was a decision maker at a major studio, I'd set up a unit where up-and-coming directors are given pretty free reign to crank out five minute short films. The only real requirement would be for each short to set up a potential franchise.

Then, have a free streaming service that distributes the shorts. Try to monetize them via ads, but most importantly, monitor the hell out of viewer engagement. Collect every metric possible. Make then easy to share on social media, and see what goes viral.

Whenever there's room in the lineup for a new movie outside the existing available franchises, pull the most promising short and crank out a feature film based on it. Lather, rinse, repeat.