1. How Popular is Movie Going?.- 2. Are the Most Expensive Movies the Most Successful?.- 3. Is Studio Size Important to Box Office Performance?.- 4. What about Distribution, Exhibition and Timing Factors?.- 5. Does Marketing and Promotion Create Box Office Success?.- 6. Are Some Genres More Profitable Than Others?.- 7. Does Sex, Horror and Violence Sell Movies?.- 8. What is the Impact of Regulatory Classification?.- 9. How Important is the Screenplay to Box Office Performance?.- 10. Why Are Sequels So Popular in Hollywood?.- 11. How Significant is Star Power?.- 12. Do Awards Make a Difference?.- 13. What is the Role of Critics’ Reviews?.- 14. How Important Is It to Get Movie-Goers On-side?.- 15. Is There a Formula for Success?
Barrie Gunter is Emeritus Professor in Media at the University of Leicester, UK. He has published nearly 70 books and over 300 other publications on media, marketing and psychology topics.
This book explores the different factors that can influence a new movie’s prospects at the box office. Looking at factors such as the production budget, distribution model, genre, stars and audience reactions of films, Gunter asks how such aspects may reduce the uncertainties of success so common in the movie industry. The reader is taken on a journey through filmmaking factors that, research suggests, impact box office performance. While box office revenues represent only part of a movie’s earning potential, Gunter highlights how theatrical performances remain central to what the movie business is about. The chapters illustrate how ticket sales are largely influenced by the production budget but also cultural differences and new movie platforms.