Samantha Masunaga is an entertainment business reporter, with a focus on Hollywood studios and how the film business intersects with new industries. Since joining the Los Angeles Times in 2014, she has covered the aerospace industry, workplace culture and Southern California’s Japanese American community. Masunaga has previously worked for the Oregonian, the Orange County Register and the Rafu Shimpo, among other publications. A Southern California native, she is an alumna of the UC Berkeley Graduate School of Journalism and UCLA.
Latest From This Author
“The Chosen,” a TV series about the life of Jesus Christ, has attracted Christians and non-churchgoers alike. Now in its fifth season, it has made a splash debuting on theatrical screens.
Some analysts believe Netflix will weather any pullback in the advertising market caused by global trade disputes.
Already facing a new rival theme park in Orlando, Fla., Disney must now contend with a more difficult economic environment that could dampen attendance.
The news of decreasing film production in Los Angeles comes as lawmakers continue pushing for a revamped film and TV tax incentive program.
Top theater lobbyist Michael O’Leary called for a minimum theatrical window for 45 days. But many say it’s too late to turn back time.
Coming off a tough first quarter at the box office, studios showed off their best films, and in some cases, star-studded casts, at the annual CinemaCon trade show in Las Vegas.
In 2024, soundstage occupancy levels decreased to 63%, down from 69% the year before. The number of on-stage shoot days for 2023 also declined, according to a new report.
Warner Bros. film studio has seen a string of box office disappointments, including ‘Mickey 17’ and ‘The Alto Knights.’ Will its ambitious slate, including ‘A Minecraft Movie,’ turn around its prospects?
Cinema United trade group Chief Executive Michael O’Leary called on studios to extend most films to a 45-day theatrical window before home video and streaming, arguing that a baseline is needed to give moviegoers clearer expectations.
Sony Pictures will release four films about the Beatles — one about each band member — in April 2028, the studio announced Monday at the CinemaCon trade conference.