Component 2 | Section B: Industry Key Theories & Application

Hesmondhalgh | Cultural Industries

Media companies reduce risk by using franchises, multi-platform releases & delayed streaming and maximise profits.

How to Apply Cultural Industries Theory to Case Studies

• Barbie (2023) delayed streaming to extend box office profits before HBO Max release.

• The Iron Claw (2023) used a limited theatrical release before streaming to build hype among niche audiences.

Curran & Seaton | Media Power

Large conglomerates dominate the media, but independent companies use niche platforms to survive.

How to Apply Media Power Theory to Barbie & Iron Claw

• Barbie is produced by Warner Bros., a media conglomerate driven by profit. Reflects limited diversity of ownership and a focus on safe, commercial storytelling. Public interest and deeper critique are secondary to mass appeal.

• A24, an independent company, produces iron claw, allowing more creative freedom and emotional depth. Offers diversity in media content outside of conglomerate control. Focuses on a real-life story instead of profit-driven franchises.

Livingston & Lunt | Regulation Theory

This theory says that media needs to be regulated to protect audiences from harmful content, but also that people should have the freedom to choose what they watch. It’s about finding a balance between protection and choice.

How to Apply Regulation Theory to Barbie & Iron Claw

• Barbie: The PG-13 rating allows for mature themes while protecting younger audiences. It balances audience choice with regulation to maintain accessibility and commercial success. The content is shaped to avoid controversy. (Context: PG-15 in the UAE due to transgender individuals being part of the production.)