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 programing, and other creative endeavors that are artistically meaningful and/or have the potential for commercial success. Change is at the heart of the entertainment business. This is a time when existing formulas in the industry are being reconsidered, retooled, or jettisoned - streaming services have changed long-existing creative and financial models; video games constitute a very significant part of the entertainment equation; Silicon Valley-based companies have enormous power across entertainment; international programming and markets increasingly drives creative content; AI has made its mark and its effect will continue to grow; and so on. The entertainment industry is one of enormous importance, both from a business and cultural standpoint, and has influence in 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 also look at the crucial and evolving relationship between Silicon Valley and Hollywood that is a major component in creating the future of entertainment. 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 issues. We will also cover the social changes occurring in the industry, and the importance of leaders creating workplaces and entertainment product that is ethical and inclusive. The course will also cover key elements of film and TV storytelling, and best practices for managing creatives in the industry. I will also bring some of my professional experiences into the classroom (including directing, writing, and producing for film and television, etc.), and discuss them in the context of navigating the business and creative sides of the industry.
2 units · GSB Student Option LTR/PF
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 programing, and other creative endeavors that are artistically meaningful and/or have the potential for commercial success. Change is at the heart of the entertainment business. This is a time when existing formulas in the industry are being reconsidered, retooled, or jettisoned - streaming services have changed long-existing creative and financial models; video games constitute a very significant part of the entertainment equation; Silicon Valley-based companies have enormous power across entertainment; international programming and markets increasingly drives creative content; AI has made its mark and its effect will continue to grow; and so on. The entertainment industry is one of enormous importance, both from a business and cultural standpoint, and has influence in 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 also look at the crucial and evolving relationship between Silicon Valley and Hollywood that is a major component in creating the future of entertainment. 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 issues. We will also cover the social changes occurring in the industry, and the importance of leaders creating workplaces and entertainment product that is ethical and inclusive. The course will also cover key elements of film and TV storytelling, and best practices for managing creatives in the industry. I will also bring some of my professional experiences into the classroom (including directing, writing, and producing for film and television, etc.), and discuss them in the context of navigating the business and creative sides of the industry.
Offered in Autumn 2025 at Stanford University.