'The Odyssey' to Skip Influencer Fan Preview Screenings
The Hollywood Reporter • • entertainment
Key Points:
- Universal is skipping word-of-mouth influencer screenings for Christopher Nolan's The Odyssey, opting instead to start screenings for professional critics after the global premiere.
- This decision goes against the growing trend of studios inviting influencers to early screenings to generate enthusiastic social media buzz ahead of official reviews.
- The move reflects increasing skepticism among fans about the authenticity of influencer promotions, highlighted by recent controversies involving Disney and Warner Bros. marketing tactics.
- Universal previously held influencer screenings for Disclosure Day, which generated positive buzz but also faced backlash from critics, illustrating the mixed impact of such strategies.
- If Universal's approach gains traction, it could signal a shift in studio marketing tactics, with some studios potentially viewing influencer screenings as less credible or as attempts to obscure genuine critical reception.
