Warner Bros. Discovery has secured top-tier filmmakers such as Steven Spielberg and Martin Scorsese to contribute to the selection of films for its cable-TV network TCM. David Zaslav, CEO of the company, had discussed this with the filmmakers after restructuring the classic film channel. Additionally, WB.D. declared that its investment in TCM has increased by 30% and it looks forward to further developing it in the future.
Following a series of layoffs and management shakeup at Turner Classic Movies, Warner Bros. Discovery has called upon a filmmaker brain trust - consisting of Steven Spielberg, Martin Scorsese and Paul Thomas Anderson - to help guide the curation and programming of its cable-TV channel. The trio of directors will be working in collaboration with Warner Bros Motion Picture Group heads Mike De Luca and Pam Abdy, who were designated these roles after the upheaval.In a joint statement, the filmmakers expressed their excitement at this "unique arrangement" initiated by David Zaslav, highlighting his commitment to upholding the network's legacy while involving them on the curation and programming.The move is part of Warner Bros. Discovery perviously announced layoffs across its cable-TV portfolio, which had initially caused the release of longstanding TCM programming chief Charles Tabesh. Fortunately, TCM fans and movie buffs were relieved to hear that he would remain with the channel, which is known for preserving classic films and providing carefully curated movie introductions.
In a statement last week, the filmmakers said they had been contacted and reassured by David Zaslav, and that they remained committed to working with the company for TCM's future. Ahead of the cost cutting initiatives, including layoffs and content spending cuts, that have been enacted as a result of the Warner Bros.-Discovery merger, Zaslav had conversations with Steven Spielberg and the other filmmakers about the network's future, a person with knowledge of the matter disclosed. In April, Zaslav, Spielberg, Martin Scorsese, and Wes Anderson took part in a panel at the TCM Classic Film Festival regarding film preservation efforts. A spokesperson for Warner Bros. Discovery recently stated that the company is "fully committed" to TCM's future, citing a 30% boost in spending on content this year. To that end, additional investment will be made toward licensing new movies and broadening the channel's selection, the source added.
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