The entertainment industry is confronted with foundational change as advancements in technology disrupt traditional business models. At LMU’s third annual innovation symposium, Disruption and Innovation in Entertainment, leading industry and academic experts confronted pressing issues and illuminated a productive path forward for this evolving sector.
“The entertainment industry’s technological shift has sparked an opportunity for lively debate,” said Executive Vice President and Provost Thomas Poon. “At this year’s symposium, our experts explored the symbiotic relationship between the entertainment and tech industries and how the latest innovations can and are being used for good.”
Over the course of two keynotes and two panel discussions, attendees expanded their understanding of the most pressing issues found at the intersection of entertainment and international business. Panelists and moderators included LMU alum, CEO and co-founder of Toonstar John Attanasio ’94, LMU School of Film and Television Professor and film producer Rosanne Korenberg, LMU College of Business Administration Professor Rochelle Webb, Sony EVP Kim Overall, and filmmaker and scientist Badabrata Pain, among others. Together, they encouraged consideration for technology’s ability to drive creative innovation; they helped storytellers understand how to leverage technology for success; and they offered a glimpse into the possibilities of a modern creative workplace.
LMU College of Business Administration professor Vandana (Ana) Mangal moderated Digital Disruption in Film and Entertainment, a panel that focused on the impact of streaming platforms, AI-driven content recommendations, and the changing dynamics of audience engagement. “The industry stands at a critical juncture, and we must focus on working together to identify positive progress,” Mangal said.
LMU School of Film and Television professor Justin Trevor Winters aligned with Mangal’s pursuit of progress. His panel, The Convergence of Tech and Storytelling, explored how businesses and creators can leverage cutting-edge technology successfully throughout the storytelling process. The futurist and CEO of the Web3 agency, Verified Labs, cements the importance of focusing on these issues. “Technology has the power to change the way we develop, produce, distribute, and monetize stories,” he said. “It levels the playing field and democratizes access, allowing more voices and perspectives to be heard in ways never before possible.”
Presented by LMU’s College of Business Administration, Center for International Business Education, School of Film and Television, External Relations, and Theta Network Labs, LMU Innovation Symposium: Disruption and Innovation in Entertainment took place on March 22, 2024.
