Elizabeth R. (esjro) -
Helpful Score: 1
Blockbusters offers an insider's perspective on why movie studios, publishing houses, record companies, and owners of sports teams are willing to make huge investments in certain projects and individuals. Anita Elberse uses the first few chapters to demonstrate how big investments can equal big profits. Although these big investments can lead to embarrassing financial losses (think of the move "John Carter"), the author shows that the gambles often pay off as one blockbuster can essentially bankroll a studios other projects.
The author uses the term "blockbuster" to encompass everything and everyone from a movie to a sports team to an individual. The latter half of the book contains mostly case studies of these blockbusters, organized by chapters addressing specific topics such as pre-release marketing schemes and digital distribution. I thought that some of the profiles could have been condensed, as after a while some of the examples become repetitive. The insider interviews can be quite lengthy. Fortunately, the author covers such a wide range of stars (from Lady Gaga to Radiohead to Jay-Z), athletes (LeBron James) and organizations (NFL, soccer leagues, etc.) that there will be something of interest to anyone who doesn't live like a hermit.
There is plenty here to interest the casual reader, but I would suggest intently reading the first half and skimming the second for parts that interest you.
The author uses the term "blockbuster" to encompass everything and everyone from a movie to a sports team to an individual. The latter half of the book contains mostly case studies of these blockbusters, organized by chapters addressing specific topics such as pre-release marketing schemes and digital distribution. I thought that some of the profiles could have been condensed, as after a while some of the examples become repetitive. The insider interviews can be quite lengthy. Fortunately, the author covers such a wide range of stars (from Lady Gaga to Radiohead to Jay-Z), athletes (LeBron James) and organizations (NFL, soccer leagues, etc.) that there will be something of interest to anyone who doesn't live like a hermit.
There is plenty here to interest the casual reader, but I would suggest intently reading the first half and skimming the second for parts that interest you.
