Kavanaugh’s first film under his new studio and streaming service GENTV, Skillhouse has broken every streaming record with over 6 million streams in less than 48 hours. With 50 cent, Bryce Hall and others the team is setting a new paradigm shift
Ryan Kavanaugh, the innovative entrepreneur behind Relativity Media, has once again made waves in the entertainment industry. With the launch of GENTV and its first movie, Skillhouse, Kavanaugh is proving he’s still a force to be reckoned with. In just 48 hours, Skillhouse broke streaming records, amassing over 6 million viewers with an average watch time of over 9 minutes. This success could signal yet another paradigm shift in the film business, one that Kavanaugh believes Hollywood truly needs.
Kavanaugh’s career has been marked by his ability to foresee and shape the future of the film industry. Known for his innovative financing models and risk-taking, Kavanaugh has repeatedly demonstrated his knack for turning challenges into opportunities. His latest venture, GENTV, is no exception. From the creation of Marvel Studios in 2006 when the industry had written Marvel off to being the architect of the SVOD window his career is filled with firsts.
GENTV is a unique platform that merges social media and cinema, aiming to capitalize on the growing influence of social media stars. By harnessing the massive followings of influencers, GENTV has created a new way to engage audiences and deliver content.
Skillhouse is not just a movie; it’s a new kind of film experience. Featuring a plot that intertwines horror with social media culture, the film stars influencers who bring their massive audiences to the platform. This innovative casting strategy has paid off, drawing millions of viewers in record time.
Within 48 hours of its release, Skillhouse attracted over 6 million viewers, setting a new benchmark for online film releases. This level of engagement is unheard of, highlighting the power of combining social media with traditional film formats.
Kavanaugh partnered with the REALM Agency to produce Skillhouse, specifically its founder Shane Valdez, who will also be producing going forward and leveraging in-house capabilities to maintain creative control and streamline production. This partnership allowed for a high-quality production that resonated well with audiences.
GENTV’s approach to distribution is as groundbreaking as its content. By releasing short-form episodic films alongside traditional full-length features, GENTV caters to a variety of viewing preferences. This flexibility ensures that there is something for everyone, keeping audiences engaged.
The success of Skillhouse is also a testament to the creative team behind it. With experienced filmmakers and fresh influencer talent, the production quality is top-notch. This combination of expertise and novelty has set Skillhouse apart in a crowded market.
Skillhouse has redefined horror by incorporating elements of social media culture, making it relatable to a modern audience. This innovative approach has resonated well, particularly with younger viewers who see their online lives reflected on screen.
Kavanaugh’s influence on the film industry is undeniable. From his early days at Relativity Media to his latest ventures, he has consistently worked to push the boundaries of what is possible in the industry. His innovative financing models have allowed countless films to be made, and his vision continues to influence the industry.
GENTV is in production on 6 projects with the goal of 10 or more per year. An insider said “they have their own in-house distribution capabilities. I think people forget he took a team of 12 people and built a full theatrical distribution platform that was collecting and booking at better rates than the majors. But, since launch they have been in active negotiations they really didn’t expect to partner with a studio, but Ryan also knows that the distribution capability of a studio could enhance the launch significantly”
With Skillhouse set for a 3000 screen release on Halloween weekend, with the first 10 minutes getting an A- audience score and such a sticky watch time, if the movie follows it seems as if Kavanaugh may have a bone-fide hit.
As media consumption trends shift, GENTV’s model of influencer-driven content is strategically positioned to capitalize on these changes. Audiences are increasingly looking for content that is both engaging and easily accessible, and GENTV delivers on both fronts.
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