The Pursuit Of Happyness

Went to see The Pursuit Of Happyness at the Sony screening theatre in Golden Square last night... I won't mention my colleague Paul's comments as they're not really mentionable in the blogeshere, suffice to say 'God Bless America'! It was good to catch up on some industry gossip, although sad that we're now amongst the only independent London Film Rental chains remaining, thanks largely to baked bean salesmen Warner Bros. introduction of two tier pricing a few years ago...   
Sony MD Marek Antoniak is retiring gracefully after many successful years. They are a good bunch, consistent in their approach and up for a party. We have many fine memories of being ferried around the world, in the interests of corporate entertainment you understand.
By contrast, it's sad to hear that Momentum Pictures charismatic MD Xavier Marchand has been sacked... although more to do with in-house positioning in light of the imminent sale by Canadian parent. Will there be more happenings when the great and the good return from industry events in Europe and CES in Vegas? More gossip anyone?

Comments

[Smiffy P]

Yeah, most of the major studio's want minimum guarantees,as usuall they want their cake and eat it, I don't think they really understand the whole concept,it's the future, this will happen, probably by file shareing and for free unless we see some action this year.

[Harry G]

So what about Universal. They seem to dispose of people in bulk every couple of years by having a clearout. I heard Pete Smith, their boss was sacked - or was it promoted? I also hear that you guys can't get any mainstream product on the web because of minimum guarantees.