Apple poaches top two Sony TV execs to boost video content

Apple Inc said on Friday it has hired the co-presidents of Sony Pictures Television, Jamie Erlicht and Zack Van Amburg, to lead the iPhone maker's foray into television-style programming.

The duo, responsible for shows such as "Breaking Bad," "Better Call Saul," "The Crown" and "The Blacklist," have been Sony Pictures presidents since 2005.

"Jamie and Zack are two of the most talented TV executives in the world and have been instrumental in making this the golden age of television," said Eddy Cue, Apple's senior vice president of Internet Software and Services.

Van Amburg and Erlicht’s departure from Sony Pictures was announced on Thursday in a memo from Sony Pictures Entertainment Chief Executive Tony Vinciquerra, according to the entertainment magazine Variety, which said their contracts were set to expire in August.

Hollywood has been awaiting the entry of deep-pocketed Apple into the field of original television, which is studded with award-winning dramas and comedies from outlets such as Netflix and Time Warner Inc's HBO.

Apple began its move into the field last week, with a reality program called "Planet of the Apps," an unscripted show about developers trying to interest celebrity mentors with a 60-second pitch on an escalator.

The company's future programming plans include an adaptation of comedian James Corden's "Carpool Karaoke" segment from his CBS show that will begin airing in August, a documentary about Sean Combs in June, and another about Clive Davis in a few months.

Apple shares fell slightly in early trading on Friday, shedding 28 cents to $144.01 per share.

source: news.abs-cbn.com

Animax Carnival to make 3rd stop in Manila

MANILA, Philippines – The Animax Carnival, an event targeted at anime and cosplay lovers, is set to make its third stop in Manila next month.

The event will be held on December 9 at the Robinsons Place Manila’s Midtown Atrium in Malate, Manila, following successful stops in Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia and Taipei, Taiwan.

A highlight of the event will be the final round of Animax’s search for its next “Ani-Mate” presenter, who will have a chance to accompany Filipino cosplayer Alodia Gosiengfiao in the cable channel’s events and shows.

Gosiengfiao is also one of the five judges in the competition, where the winner will take home a cash prize of P25,000.

“Animax is the destination for top anime programs in the Philippines and across Asia. We believe Animax Carnival is an extension of the colorful and fun Animax entertainment experience beyond TV. Fun and engaging, the event will offer something for everyone,” Ricky Ow, executive vice president and general manager for networks in Asia of Sony Pictures Television, said in a press statement.

Animax is managed by Sony Pictures Television, along with other cable channels such as AXN.

Aside from the Ani-Mate search finals, the Animax Carnival will also see Gosiengfiao reveal her newest cosplay costume, which is based on one of the shows aired on the cable channel.

Attendees may also get to be anime voice actors for a day in the event’s dubbing booth, which includes characters from the programs “Beelzebub,” “Naruto,” “Bleach,” “K-On!,” “Fairy Tail” and “Nura: Rise of the Yokai Clan.”

There will also be carnival and stage games, and an “AniChan Kids Corner” where children can engage in activities like anime eyes painting and manga drawing.

The Animax Carnival will be held at the Robinsons Manila Midtown Atrium on Sunday,  December 9, from 10 a.m. For more details, watch Animax or visit www.animaxasia.com.

source: abs-cbnnews.com