Latest news with #Cooke
See - Sada Elbalad
3 days ago
- Entertainment
- See - Sada Elbalad
Olivia Cooke Replaces Maika Monroe in Movie "Brides"
Yara Sameh Olivia Cooke is set to star in the Neon thriller "Brides" from Watcher director Chloe Okuno, who will direct from a script she wrote. It will be produced by Anthony Bregman and Stefanie Azpiazu through Likely Story. Neon will release "Brides" theatrically. The pic follows Sally Bishop (Cooke) and her husband, who travel to a remote Italian villa whose owner, a mysterious count, takes a peculiar interest in Sally. Cooke steps in for Maika Monroe, who had scheduling issues with her Universal film "Reminders of Him". As a filmmaker, Okuno's feature debut was the psychological thriller "Watcher", starring Monroe and Burn Gorman, which premiered in the U.S. Dramatic Competition at the 2022 Sundance Film Festival and went on to play several other festivals. Drawn to genre-based material that aims to excite and unsettle, her other works include writing and directing the 'Storm Drain' segment of the anthology series "V/H/S/94", as well as directing episodes from Showtime's "Let the Right One In" and the James Wan-produced series "Teacup". Best known for her roles in "Ready Player One", "Me, Earl", and "The Dying Girl," Cooke is coming off the second season of HBO's "Game of Thrones" prequel series "House of the Dragon". She recently wrapped production on the Amazon series "The Girlfriend" opposite Robin Wright. read more New Tourism Route To Launch in Old Cairo Ahmed El Sakka-Led Play 'Sayidati Al Jamila' to Be Staged in KSA on Dec. 6 Mandy Moore Joins Season 2 of "Dr. Death" Anthology Series Don't Miss These Movies at 44th Cairo Int'l Film Festival Today Amr Diab to Headline KSA's MDLBEAST Soundstorm 2022 Festival Arts & Culture Mai Omar Stuns in Latest Instagram Photos Arts & Culture "The Flash" to End with Season 9 Arts & Culture Ministry of Culture Organizes four day Children's Film Festival Arts & Culture Canadian PM wishes Muslims Eid-al-Adha News Egypt confirms denial of airspace access to US B-52 bombers News Ayat Khaddoura's Final Video Captures Bombardment of Beit Lahia News Australia Fines Telegram $600,000 Over Terrorism, Child Abuse Content Arts & Culture Nicole Kidman and Keith Urban's $4.7M LA Home Burglarized Sports Former Al Zamalek Player Ibrahim Shika Passes away after Long Battle with Cancer Sports Neymar Announced for Brazil's Preliminary List for 2026 FIFA World Cup Qualifiers News Prime Minister Moustafa Madbouly Inaugurates Two Indian Companies Arts & Culture New Archaeological Discovery from 26th Dynasty Uncovered in Karnak Temple Business Fear & Greed Index Plummets to Lowest Level Ever Recorded amid Global Trade War Arts & Culture Zahi Hawass: Claims of Columns Beneath the Pyramid of Khafre Are Lies
Campaign ME
6 days ago
- Entertainment
- Campaign ME
Why the future of streaming in MENA lies in hyper-personalised, genre-driven content
As streaming services continue to evolve across the Middle East and North Africa (MENA), the future of streaming is experiencing a significant shift – one defined by hyper-local content, genre-specific programming, and culturally intelligent storytelling. In an exclusive interview with Campaign Middle East, Jamie Cooke, General Manager for CEE & EMEA at Warner Bros. Discovery, unpacks the trends shaping the future of streaming in the region and offers essential takeaways for content creators, brands, and advertisers alike. Local stories are shaping the future of streaming The growing emphasis on local talent and storytelling across the region is very much rooted in clear, data-driven insights about how audiences engage with content today. Across MENA, audiences – particularly Gen Z and Millennials – are increasingly drawn to content that mirrors their cultural identities and lived realities. Internal research conducted by Warner Bros. Discovery indicates that regional consumers engage more deeply with programming that feels emotionally authentic and culturally resonant. 'Our internal audience research across MENA consistently shows that viewers are likelier to engage with authentic content that resonates emotionally and reflects their realities – be it language, values, or social context,' said Cooke. This insight is not limited to just one type of content. Viewership and engagement are rising across local formats across streaming platforms and linear TV, scripted formats, documentaries, lifestyle shows, and factual entertainment. 'Data from our own platforms and third-party research highlights that engagement rates, completion rates, and even brand recall are significantly higher when content is locally relevant,' said Cooke. This trend has strategic implications for both content creators and advertisers. The lesson is clear for global brands and platforms: to truly connect with communities in the region, content and campaigns must be crafted with cultural intelligence and local relevance. 'It's no longer about simply localising global content – it's about creating from the region for the region. This is why we at Warner Bros. Discovery continue to invest in partnerships with regional production houses and local talent. It deepens audience connection and creates opportunities for innovation that can travel beyond the region,' says Cooke. For advertisers, aligning with hyper-local narratives offers a powerful opportunity to embed their brand authentically into stories that matter to their audiences—driving both cultural relevance and commercial impact. Beyond localisation, purpose-driven storytelling is becoming increasingly important to both viewers and brands. The future of streaming is fueled by purpose-driven genres When it comes to genres that deliver on ROI, engagement, and brand impact, factual entertainment, real-life storytelling, and lifestyle content lead the way. These formats offer the right balance of emotional appeal and contextual relevance, making them popular among both viewers and crucial to advertisers looking to drive meaningful results. 'We're also seeing growing interest in documentary-style storytelling and purpose-driven content – especially among younger audiences who value authenticity and substance. These formats allow brands to align with stories that spark conversation and build cultural credibility, amplifying reach and recall,' said Cooke. He continues, 'Another powerful genre is food and travel. Food-centric content has proven to be a magnet for both viewers and brands in markets like the UAE and Saudi Arabia. It offers versatility, aspirational appeal, and seamless integration opportunities – whether through branded content, sponsorship, or native storytelling. At Warner Bros. Discovery, we've seen strong performance across our lifestyle and factual portfolio, with advertisers gravitating toward content that delivers impressions and impact. The focus now is on platforms and genres that allow brands to be part of stories that are watched and remembered.' Interactive, immersive storytelling Looking ahead, Cooke sees rising demand for content that prioritises experience over passive viewing. 'We believe that content's future will be increasingly defined by experiences and engagement rather than just passive consumption. As audiences – especially younger ones – seek deeper, more immersive interactions, formats that allow for user agency, such as multiple possible endings, branching narratives, or gamified elements, are gaining traction,' said Cooke. He explains that these interactive experiences do more than just entertain—they provide platforms with valuable first-party data, offering deeper insights into user preferences and behaviour. This evolution marks a shift from traditional one-way storytelling to a dynamic, two-way dialogue between creators and audiences. From a data standpoint, interactive content unlocks richer first-party insights by capturing how users watch, engage, and make choices, as well as what they value in a storyline. This behavioral data is a powerful tool for shaping future content strategies and delivering hyper-personalised experiences. 'At Warner Bros. Discovery, we're exploring how to integrate these formats naturally and authentically, particularly in markets like MENA, where there's a growing appetite for innovation and a strong connection to cultural storytelling traditions,' said Cooke. Brand safety and value alignment in the CTV era With consumers choosing to spend a lot of their time on streaming services and CTV, the context in which brand messages appear has become a top concern. Today's consumers expect alignment between the values of the content they watch and the brands that support it. This is why conversations around brand safety and brand integrity are not just important, they're essential. 'When a brand partners with us, they know their message is landing in content that aligns with shared values – whether that's inclusivity, creativity, or storytelling that makes a positive impact,' said Cooke In today's media landscape, where the volume of content is vast, and the choices for consumers are infinite, selecting the right partner is ultimately a matter of brand reputation and long-term equity. 'Shared values and a clear long-term vision are the foundation for meaningful collaboration. The most successful partnerships go beyond short-term campaigns and are built on trust, alignment, and a mutual commitment to quality and integrity,' adds Cooke. For brands looking to create real emotional connections, platforms that offer not just scale but substance should be a priority. Tailoring content with language and culture Content localisation in the MENA region is both a technological and cultural exercise. With such rich linguistic diversity – from Gulf Arabic to Levantine and North African dialects – it's essential to go beyond simple translation and adopt nuanced localisation strategies. Cooke comments, 'On the technology front, we use AI-driven language processing tools that can adapt to Modern Standard Arabic and dialect-specific nuances. These include Natural Language Processing (NLP) systems trained on region-specific data, voice recognition models tuned to local pronunciation, and machine learning algorithms that help tailor subtitles, dubbing, and metadata to regional preferences.' However, technology is only part of the equation. 'We also work closely with regional language experts and culturally attuned creatives to refine tone, idiomatic expressions, and narrative flow. This hybrid model – leveraging AI for scale and speed and human expertise for cultural accuracy – ensures our content feels local, not just localised,' said Cooke. The lesson for content owners and advertisers is clear, authentic engagement in MENA requires investment in both technology and cultural intelligence. It's not just about language – it's about relevance, respect, and resonance. Data in real time Real-time analytics are proving vital in refining user experience and guiding content strategy. 'At Warner Bros. Discovery, we actively leverage real-time data to monitor platform viewer behaviour. This allows us to continuously refine content recommendations and surface the right content to the right audiences at the right moment,' said Cooke. This capability is especially important in a region as dynamic as MENA, where viewing habits can shift rapidly based on cultural moments, seasons, or social trends. By using real-time feedback loops, brand can adapt content curation, adjust promotional strategies, and even influence programming decisions – all with speed and precision. He explains how this data-driven approach benefits platform performance and delivers stronger outcomes for advertisers. Real-time engagement metrics help brands and advertiser understand what's resonating, which formats are performing best, and where brands can authentically integrate without disrupting the user experience. 'The key is not just having the data but also having the infrastructure and agility to act on it. For us, real-time analytics are not just about optimisation – they're about relevance, responsiveness, and building a more meaningful relationship with the viewer,' adds Cooke. Ultimately, the future of streaming is not just about capturing attention and building connections. The more interactive and personalised the experience, the stronger the emotional bond between the viewer, the content and, by extension, the brand.
Yahoo
24-05-2025
- Entertainment
- Yahoo
Ethan Coen's ‘Honey Don't!' Gets 6.5-Minute Ovation In Cannes
Focus Features had the final slot of the Official Selection here in Cannes this evening with Ethan Coen's Honey Don't!, a dark comedy reuniting Margaret Qualley with the filmmaker on the heels of last year's Drive-Away Dolls. Coen & Co. received a 6.5-minute ovation in the wee hours of the morning. 'Fun finish to the festival, yah?' said Coen to a lively crowd. More from Deadline Cannes Closing Ceremony To Go Ahead As Planned Despite Massive Power Outage In South Of France Cannes Awards Predictions: Deadline's Critics Make Their Picks For This Year's Palme D'Or & Other Main Prizes Chilean Drama 'The Mysterious Gaze Of The Flamingo' Wins Top Un Certain Regard Prize - Cannes 'It's short for a movie that started after midnight,' added Coen about the movie's 90-minute running time, 'very humane!' Qualley takes on the titular role of Honey O'Donahue, a small-town private investigator who delves into a series of strange deaths tied to a mysterious church led by a preacher played by Chris Evans. Aubrey Plaza and Charlie Day also feature prominently in the cast, which additionally includes Billy Eichner, Lera Abova, Jacnier, Gabby Beans, Talia Ryder, Kristen Connolly, Lena Hall, Don Swayze, Josh Pafchek, Kale Browne, Alexander Carstoiu and Christian Antidormi. Coen directed from his script written with wife Tricia Cooke, the veteran editor who has cut such Coen Brothers classics as The Big Lebowski and O Brother, Where Art Thou? Cooke also co-wrote Drive-Away Dolls. Said Cooke tonight following Coen, 'More queer cinema, all the time!' to big cheers. Focus releases domestically on August 22. Universal Pictures International is handling overseas distribution. Producers on the project are Coen, Cooke, Robert Graf and Working Title's Tim Bevan and Eric Fellner. Coen has been bringing movies to Cannes' Official Selection since the 1980s, starting with 1987's Raising Arizona which he co-wrote with brother Joel who directed. Notable Cannes titles from the duo have also included Barton Fink (1991/Palme d'Or, Best Director, Best Actor); The Hudsucker Proxy (1994), Fargo (1996/Best Director); O' Brother, Where Art Thou? (2000); The Man Who Wasn't There (2001/Best Director); The Ladykillers (2004/Jury Prize); No Country for Old Men (2007); and Inside Llewyn Davis (2013/Grand Prize). In 2022, Ethan Coen brought his documentary Jerry Lee Lewis: Trouble in Mind for a Special Screening. Because it's a midnight screening at Cannes, the black tie and classy dress attire rules don't apply. However, there was a definite mix in the crowd. Best of Deadline 'Poker Face' Season 2 Guest Stars: From Katie Holmes To Simon Hellberg Everything We Know About Amazon's 'Verity' Movie So Far Everything We Know About 'The Testaments,' Sequel Series To 'The Handmaid's Tale' So Far
Yahoo
23-05-2025
- Business
- Yahoo
Owego man walks 16 miles to work to raise money for veterans
(WIVT/WBGH) – An Owego man trekked through the heavy rain to raise money for a local veteran's agency. Mark Cooke is a Bedding Buyer for Olum's Furniture and Appliances. On Friday, he participated in the company's second annual 'Walking for Clear Path' fundraising event. Cooke once again walked from his home on Lisle Road in Owego to the Olum's in Vestal. Overall, he walked 16 miles to work. Cooke says last year, the event raised $6,500 for Clear Path for Veterans. This year, the goal was set at $10,000. Clear Path for Veterans supports veterans and active-duty service members. It offers free access to vital programs and services as well as peer support. Cooke says, 'Thank you' to those who have served. 'Veterans don't really get the recognition they deserve, particularly after service. Whether you believe in conflict or don't, the fact is people put their lives on the line for us, and they deserve more,' said Cooke. Donations have been made by sponsors, bedding companies, and community members. Cooke says presenting the check is the best part of the event. Olum's is still collecting money. To donate through Venmo, click here. Donations can also be made in person at the Vestal location by cash or check. Event at Binghamton City Hall brings local Haitian-American community together Owego man walks 16 miles to work to raise money for veterans Food and Farm Showcase: New Leaf Cider Co Vestal senior appointed to Naval Academy Elizabeth Church Manor up for sale by United Methodist Homes Copyright 2025 Nexstar Media, Inc. All rights reserved. This material may not be published, broadcast, rewritten, or redistributed.
Miami Herald
22-05-2025
- Business
- Miami Herald
Why Craig Conover Is Meeting With Members of Congress
Southern Charm's Craig Conover visited the U.S. Capitol on Tuesday to speak with members of Congress about his business, Sewing Down South, and experience as a small business owner. Newsweek reached out to Conover via email for comment. Small businesses are a huge part of the American economy, and fostering growth in the small business arena has been a staple of both Democratic and Republican presidential campaigns. As Republicans work to pass a budget bill that includes tax cuts to help small businesses, the House Committee on Small Business hosted a showcase of small businesses to highlight the importance of their companies. The showcase enabled policymakers to hear directly from business owners on issues like tax policy, regulation, and investment incentives. According to Conover, sewing Down South is an eight-figure business, and he employed about 30 people with health insurance as of April. During Tuesday's showcase, Conover joined over 25 business owners from across the United States to highlight his company's economic contributions to members of Congress. In an Instagram video shared before the event, Conover said he was "a little nervous" but it was "pretty awesome" that he was presenting Sewing Down South to members of Congress. Conover noted that he had to wear a tie because he had a presentation and noted that while he doesn't wear them that often, he always used to. He said there was "something about dressing up before work or a game." The Southern Charm star posted on Instagram that the last time he was at the U.S. Capitol was in the 5th grade for a field trip. Committee Chairman Roger Williams opened the showcase by thanking entrepreneurs for their work and highlighted federal initiatives to create a healthy business climate, including reductions in taxes and regulations and 100 percent expensing for businesses. Williams was joined by SBA Administrator Kelly Loeffler and other committee members who praised small businesses' role in strengthening local economies. Sewing Down South, founded by Conover in 2018 in Charleston, South Carolina, has grown from a hobby-driven startup in his dining room to a major home goods enterprise serving customers nationwide. By 2025, Conover reported that the company had reached an eight-figure valuation and expanded into national retailers such as Kroger and HomeGoods. The company employs approximately 30 people and offers products ranging from decorative pillows to kitchenware. Conover does not solely own the business and has two partners, Jerry Casselano and Amanda Latifi, each of whom holds an ownership stake. Conover also has a stake in the Spritz Society sparkling cocktail brand, which also participated in the Capitol event. Conover's partnership with Spritz Society sparked tension with Summer House starKyle Cooke since Cooke owns Loverboy, a competitor brand. Fans watched the fallout of the partnership play out this season on Summer House. Cooke told Newsweek recently that alcohol is a "zero-sum game," so if one brand is being promoted, another brand isn't, which is part of why Conover's taking on this partnership was a problem. "If your friend comes out with a podcast. And you have a podcast, are you mad at your friend? No, you just cross-promote, you hop on each other's podcasts, you create this rising tide," Cooke said. "There's not a lot of industries that are so dog-eat-dog but beverage is one of them." Conover told Page Six in May that he tried Spritz Society at a Taylor Swift concert and enjoyed it, so when the opportunity presented itself to invest, it was "such an easy sell." He said investing in Loverboy "wasn't an option." After Tuesday's event, Conover called it "pretty awesome" to have two companies in the Capitol presenting and said he hopes he gets the chance to come back. "That was awesome," he added. House Committee on Small Business chair Roger Williams, in a statement: "The House Committee on Small Business is proud to be a voice for Main Street America in Washington. Today, small business owners from across the country had the chance to showcase the results of their hard work and dedication to Members of Congress." Craig Conover on Instagram after the event: "Incredible feeling walking into the Capitol and seeing one of your other businesses presenting." Small business leaders who participated in the showcase will continue to advocate for supportive policies and seek new opportunities for collaboration with Congress. Sewing Down South plans to pursue further partnerships and expansion, as indicated by its ongoing collaborations and national distribution. Related Articles Paige DeSorbo Says She Got 'Good Reminder' About Marriage Over the Weekend'Southern Charm' Star Craig Conover Dodges Questions About Ex Paige DeSorbo Cheating RumorsPaige DeSorbo Seemingly Spotted With New Guy After Craig Conover Split'Southern Charm' Stars Craig and Austen Call Out Fake Cast-'Don't Hide' 2025 NEWSWEEK DIGITAL LLC.
