Blockbusters
Hit-making, Risk-taking, and the Big Business of Entertainment
- 307 pages
- 11 hours of reading
Why will the future of popular culture hinge on larger investments in entertainment? What drives the remarkable success of companies like Warner Bros., Marvel, and the NFL, as well as stars such as Jay-Z, Lady Gaga, and LeBron James? Anita Elberse, a leading expert from Harvard Business School, explores these questions through her extensive research on media and sports. In this groundbreaking work, she reveals a crucial insight: focusing on blockbuster products—high-budget movies, TV shows, songs, and books—is the most reliable strategy for achieving long-term success in the competitive entertainment landscape. Elberse discusses the rationale behind the substantial financial commitments made by entertainment executives in pursuit of the next big hit, the astronomical salaries of superstars, and the impact of digital technologies on the industry. With exclusive stories from her unique access to top entertainment brands, this book serves as essential reading for anyone looking to grasp the intricacies of the entertainment sector and navigate the complexities of today’s high-stakes business environment.