More than two-thirds of the top 100 most popular movies and TV shows in 2024 were based on existing ideas and intellectual property (IP) according to brand new data now added to Ampere Analysis’s Commissioning app. During a downturn in overall Scripted commissioning, franchises are a reliable choice for companies looking to engage successfully with consumers. From nostalgic blockbuster movies, to broadcast crime procedurals, commissioners are safeguarding spending by continuing to invest in well-loved characters and the universes they inhabit. Streamers are also leveraging existing IP to create localised versions, catering to regions where streaming adoption is still growing
Despite the downturn, commissions based on existing franchises have maintained a steady share of around 20% of all announcements between 2022 and 2024. This underscores the industry's reliance on recognisable properties as a way to drive viewership and sustain fan interest.
While TV and movie titles based on Crime & Thriller franchises were the most commissioned, accounting for 22% of all franchise-based announcements in this period, the distribution of franchise commissions varied significantly based on commissioner type and target audience. For example, traditional broadcasters focused on long-running procedural dramas like "Law & Order" and "NCIS," while streaming platforms prioritised localised adaptations of existing titles – Netflix’s Spanish comedy series "Alpha Males" has already been developed in Germany, Italy, France and The Netherlands. Indeed, Netflix franchises were adapted in 22 distinct markets between 2022 and 2024 - more than those owned by any other company.
Among movie titles announced in this period, franchise projects from distributors grew by 43% between 2022 and 2024, driven by nostalgia and global brand recognition. Sci-Fi & Fantasy led the way at 21% of titles announced, with superhero films remaining a dominant force. More movies were based on DC franchises alone (including "Batman" and "Superman") than any other property in this period.
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