Tag: Awards

Nomination Period Is Open for 2026 Home Entertainment Media Play Awards

Nominations are now being accepted for the annual Home Entertainment Media Play Awards, which for the ninth year is being presented by Media Play News.

Nominations for the awards — which honor the best movies, series and other content aimed at home audiences released during 2025, from streaming to TVOD to disc — are due from participating studios, distributors and content creators Feb. 6.

Winners in all categories will then be determined by a blue-ribbon panel of industry experts in conjunction with a consumer vote. Voting will take place in March and the winners will be announced in April.

The awards cover a wide array of home entertainment options, including streaming, from SVOD to AVOD and FAST; DVD, Blu-ray Disc and 4K Ultra HD Blu-ray; premium video-on-demand (PVOD) and digital sellthrough.

Submit your entries for the 2026 Home Entertainment Media Play Awards here

“Best of show” winners are then selected from among all eligible submissions for Packaged-Media Title of the Year, TV Disc Release of the Year and Best Blu-ray Disc. A “Fan-Favorite” trophy also will be awarded for the single title receiving the most consumer votes. Judges may also present awards based on special merit.

Last year’s Home Entertainment Media Play Awards saw the Warner Archive Collection’s remastered 4K Ultra HD Blu-ray edition of director John Ford’s 1956 Western classic The Searchers starring John Wayne winning in five categories, taking the top prize of Title of the Year, as well as Blu-ray Disc of the Year, Best Restoration, Best Audio/Visual Quality, and Best Release of a Western.

Overall, this is the 16th edition of the annual home entertainment awards.

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DEG Announces Fifth Annual EnTech Awards Finalists

DEG: The Digital Entertainment Group has announced the finalists for the fifth annual EnTech Awards. The award winners will be announced at the Culver Theater in Culver City, Calif., on Oct. 7. Doors open at 5:30 p.m.

Emerging Technology Award — This award honors a company that created a new, consumer-facing technology that demonstrates potential to positively affect the future of digital entertainment. Finalists are:

  • CineSearch, Tony Huidor, Cineverse 
  • For Mexico, For all Time, UFC at The Sphere Las Vegas, UFC Team, Nexus Studios, Antigravity Academy 
  • Interactive Vocal Scoring System, Alexandre Benoit, Stingray 

 

Localization Trailblazer Award  — This award honors pioneering teams or individuals who have transformed the industry and introduced a game-changing innovation. Finalists are:

  • Christopher Reynolds, Deluxe Media Inc. 
  • Engineering Team, The Sherlock Company 
  • Jacques Barreau, TransPerfect Media 

 

Technology Innovation in Catalog Restoration and Preservation Award — This award honors individuals or teams who have developed or uniquely use software or create tools to solve problems in the restoration and preservation of film, television, or related materials (e.g., metadata).  Finalists are:

  • Archive Explorer (AMICS), Iron Mountain 
  • “Hell’s Angels” Team, NBCUniversal 
  • “Sunset Blvd” Team, Paramount and Park Post Road

 

Technology Advancement in Multi-Media Accessibility Award — This award honors an individual or team that has created technological advancements in accessibility, enhancing the user experience of multimedia entertainment through features such as Audio Description, signing, and dialog intelligibility. Finalists are:

  • Text-to-Speech Audio Description (TTS AD), Amazon Prime 
  • 2024 Paris Olympics and Paralympic Accessibility Team, NBCUniversal 
  • “Sinners” and Black American Sign Language, Warner Bros. Discovery, HBO Max, and Roundabout Entertainment  

 

Technology Innovation in Content Delivery Award — The award honors an individual or a team for identifying a problem within the media and entertainment supply chain and creating a novel solution, such as an engineering lab, infrastructure, or product. Finalists are:

  • Spherex AI Agents, Teresa Phillips, Spherex 
  • Catalog Intelligence, Sonia Hunt, Vubiquity 
  • “Love Hurts” Cloud-Based Workflow, NBCUniversal, Company3, Pixelogic, AWS 

 

Technology Innovation in Content Distribution Award  — The award honors an individual or a team for identifying a consumer-facing problem and creating a novel solution in content distribution. Finalists are:

  • Direct 2 Debut (D2D) Platform, Deluxe Media Inc. 
  • AI Semantic Search and Content Recommendation, Mediagenix 
  • Compliance Engine, Play Anywhere  

 

Technology Leadership Award — The award honors an individual or team for demonstrating leadership, implementing something technically that had an impact on the business as a whole (extending to the industry beyond their specific company). Recipients will have demonstrated leadership and significantly contributed to a recent project or other engagement within the last two years in the Technology & Operations function within entertainment technology. Finalists are:

  • Tony Huidor, Cineverse 
  • Megan Mauck, NBCUniversal 
  • Rose Hulse, ScreenHits TV  

 

To determine the award winners, DEG has enlisted a distinguished judging panel comprised of a cross-section of leaders representing entertainment technology. Among other factors, the judging panel will base its decision on the candidates’ contribution to a key goal or priority within the technology and operations function.

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IndieWire Honors 2025 Celebrates TV’s Boldest Storytellers at NeueHouse Hollywood

IndieWire gathered some of television’s top creative voices June 5 at NeueHouse in Hollywood for the 2025 edition of the IndieWire Honors, an intimate awards event spotlighting independent creators and the best in film and television.

Now in its eighth year, the annual event recognized a curated list of talent across genres, platforms and creative disciplines. This year’s honorees included Oscar-winner Kathy Bates for her return to network television in “Matlock”; writer and producer Mara Brock Akil (“Girlfriends,” “Being Mary Jane”); and “Severance” director duo Ben Stiller and Jessica Lee Gagné for their work on the Apple TV+ hit.

Comedian and “Hacks” star Robby Hoffman hosted the evening, delivering a sharp, irreverent opening monologue that walked the line between industry satire and heartfelt admiration for the night’s recipients. Her performance set the tone for a night that balanced celebration with self-awareness.

Director Stiller, whose pivot to prestige TV has been widely praised, was honored alongside cinematographer Gagné for their collaborative vision on “Severance.” Their segment of the night included a reflection on the growing creative synergy between filmmakers and streaming platforms, especially in serialized storytelling.

Colin Farrell was recognized for his unconventional choices in recent years, including his performance in “Sugar,” while Julianne Nicholson received honors for her role in the genre-bending “Fallout,” praised for anchoring the series with emotional authenticity.

Newcomer Owen Cooper, who led the breakout series “Adolescence,” drew a standing ovation for his emotionally nuanced performance and rapid ascent in the television world. The event also celebrated “Forever” creator Mara Brock Akil for her career-spanning commitment to centering underrepresented voices in entertainment.

Throughout the night, themes of reinvention and risk-taking were echoed not just in acceptance speeches, but in the atmosphere itself. IndieWire’s approach emphasized individuality and craft over commerce, in a year where the TV industry continues to grapple with economic uncertainty and shifting distribution models.

In a fitting finale, the event closed with a call to keep championing the creative process in a medium that is constantly evolving.

Nominations Now Open for Media Play News’ 40 Under 40, Class of 2025

Media Play News has opened nominations for its seventh annual 40 Under 40 issue, which recognizes rising as well as established young executives in home/digital entertainment.

The nomination form may be accessed here or at the link below.

This year, the 40 Under 40 issue will once again be published in July.

This prestigious annual list honors people under the age of 40 (before Aug. 1, 2025) who are on their way up, or already in a position of prominence, at a studio, independent film company, streaming service, AVOD/FAST provider, retailer, distributor or technology company.

Honorees will be selected by the Media Play News staff based on their contributions to their companies, their role in their industry, and the likelihood of them becoming a key leader in their field.

Nominations are due Friday, June 6, for possible inclusion in the July issue of Media Play News‘ monthly magazine, which comes out July 21 in both digital and print editions. Extra copies of the print edition may be purchased through the “Shop” tab on our website.

40 Under 40 Nomination

 

NATPE Budapest Bows NATPE Honors Europe Award Winners

NATPE Budapest has announced the recipients of the inaugural NATPE Honors Europe, a new celebration recognizing trailblazing individuals whose creativity and visionary leadership are reshaping the entertainment industry. The exclusive awards show and celebration will take place on June 23, 2025, at the Dorothea Hotel.

“NATPE Honors is a celebration of the extraordinary talent and leadership driving our industry forward,” NATPE executive director Claire Macdonald said in a statement. “After an incredibly successful launch of the awards at NATPE Global in Miami this February, it was clear that we needed to recognize outstanding leadership in the CEE region. These recipients inspire us with their bold ideas and unwavering commitment to excellence, and we’re thrilled to recognize their impact in Budapest.”

The inaugural NATPE Honors awardees include:

North Star Award: Recognizes career achievements of individuals whose strong leadership has had a bar-raising impact, providing guidance as the industry navigates change.

  • George Levendis (managing director, ANT1 TV, Mak TV & Antenna Studios, Greece) — Celebrated for a commitment to innovation, an uncanny ability to adapt to emerging trends, and advocating for burgeoning talent in Greece and beyond, as well as a knack for creating key partnerships that have driven the success of multiple global hits.
  • Levente Malnay (managing director and EVP, AMC Networks International, Central and Northern Europe) — Honored for playing a pivotal role in establishing commercial television in the region after the fall of communism, and exceptional leadership across production, channel launches, and managing one of the most diverse portfolios of channels in the region.

 

Shift Disturber Award: Honors individuals whose bold ideas and leadership are driving transformative change.

  • Daniel Grunt (CEO, Nova Group) — Recognized for the incredible success of the Voyo platform, which, with an unprecedented investment in high-end original and locally relevant content, is winning ratings and subscribers whilst competing with global streamers.
  • Magdalena Szwedkowicz (producer, MAG Entertainment) — Celebrated for transforming the landscape of the Polish film and television industry and for producing high-quality hits, including Forgotten Love (Znachor), Justice(Napad), Squared Love and Sleboda (Deadly Ties) that showcase the rich cultural heritage of Poland, and resonate with global viewers.

  

Cause + Action Award: Celebrates a purpose-led champion of change for their social good impact.

  • Starlight Media — Recognizing Ukraine’s largest broadcasting group for supporting and amplifying the voice of veterans, notably putting a war vet in the spotlight in the most recent edition of The Bachelor.

 

The NATPE Honors Europe Awards will become an annual tradition, celebrating the individuals leading change across entertainment and media in the region.

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In addition to the awards show, NATPE Budapest will bring together key buyers, sellers, and decision-makers, featuring top international studios such as A+E Global Media, Fremantle, Fox Entertainment Global, Lionsgate, NBCUniversal Global TV Distribution, Paramount Global Content Distribution and Sony Pictures Television. The event has more than 300  buyers from 60 countries already registered, according to organizers.

Netflix Tops BAFTA TV Awards With 12 Nominations, Led by ‘Baby Reindeer’

Netflix topped all media companies with 12 nominations, led by drama “Baby Reindeer” for the upcoming the British Academy Television Awards (BAFTA) 2025, happening April 27 in London and hosted by Alan Cumming (Peacock’s “The Traitors”).

The show, which is subject to an ongoing defamation lawsuit by the woman, Fiona Harvey, who much of the show’s stalking “Martha” character is based on, is up for Best Limited Drama, Leading Actor for series’ creator Richard Gadd, and Supporting Actress for both Jessica Gunning and Nava Mau — the latter BAFTA TV’s first transgender nominee.

Netflix also received nominations for “Supacell” (Best Drama Series); “You Are Not Alone: Fighting The Wolfpack” (Best International); Billie Piper for “Scoop” (Leading Actress); Nabhaan Rizwan for “Kaos” (Best Male Performance in a Comedy Program); McKinley Belcher III for “Eric” (Best Supporting Actor); “American Nightmare” (Best Factual Series); “One Day” (Best Limited Drama); and Best Memorable Moment for the carriage scene in “Bridgerton,” where Colin admits his true feelings for Penelope.

Separately, Disney+ received seven nominations for “Say Nothing” and “Shogun” (Best International); Lola Petticrew for “Say Nothing” (Best Leading Actress); David Tennant for “Rivals” (Best Leading Actor); Katherine Parkinson (“Rivals”) and Maxine Peake (“Say Nothing”) for Best Supporting Actress; and Rupert Campbell-Black and Sarah Stratton caught in a game of naked tennis in “Rivals” for Best Memorable Moment.

Apple TV+ earned Best Leading Actor and Best Supporting Actor nominations for Gary Oldman, Christopher Chung and Jonathan Pryce, respectively, for “Slow Horses.”

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Laurence Fishburne, Hiroyuki Sanada to Receive Special Honors at Saturn Awards

The Academy of Science Fiction, Fantasy & Horror Films will honor actors Laurence Fishburne and Hiroyuki Sanada at the upcoming 52nd Annual Saturn Awards. Fishburne will receive the Lance Reddick Legacy Award and two-time Emmy and two-time Golden Globe Award winner Sanada will receive the Robert Forster Artist’s Award.

The Saturn Awards will be held Feb. 2 at the Hilton Universal City Hotel and will be live-streamed for free on both the Roku Channel and Electric Entertainment’s OTT app and FAST channel ElectricNow. 

The Lance Reddick Legacy Award represents and honors a performer’s exceptional talent and character, recognizing an individual who serves as an exemplary goodwill ambassador within their industry. Following in the footsteps of last year’s recipient Keanu Reeves, Fishburne will be presented his award by acclaimed Emmy and Grammy Award-winning actor, director and producer LeVar Burton. Laurence’s ability to embody complex characters and convey deep emotions has solidified his status as one of the most respected actors in the industry, according to the academy.  For the past 40 years, he has been using his platform and influence to promote positive change, inclusivity, and a deeper appreciation for the arts in the entertainment industry, the academy noted.

The Robert Forster Artist’s Award honors an actor for their body of work and impact on the industry in memory of the Academy’s friend and Saturn Award favorite Robert Forster. Sanada’s ability to seamlessly transition between Japanese and Western cinema while maintaining authenticity and depth in his performances has made him a respected figure both in Japan and internationally, according to the academy. His dedication to his craft and efforts to promote cultural exchange through his work mark him as an exemplary figure worthy of recognition, the academy noted. His influence extends beyond his acting prowess; he has been a trailblazer for Japanese actors in Hollywood, breaking barriers and paving the way for greater diversity in the industry. Previous recipients of the Robert Forster Artist’s Award have been Christopher Lloyd and Seth MacFarlane.

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“Both of these remarkable actors have significantly shaped the entertainment landscape, and captivating audiences around the globe,” academy president Robert Holguin and Saturn producers Bradley and Kevin Marcus said in a statement. “Their unique contributions have enriched genre entertainment and played a pivotal role in bringing it into the mainstream, celebrating the creativity and passion that fuel our industry. We can’t wait to honor their incredible achievements.”

Nomination Period Is Open for 2025 Home Entertainment Media Play Awards

Nominations are now being accepted for the annual Home Entertainment Media Play Awards, which for the eighth year is being presented by Media Play News.

Nominations for the awards — which honor the best movies, series and other content aimed at home audiences released during 2024, from streaming to TVOD to disc — are due from participating studios, distributors and content creators Feb. 7.

Winners in all categories will then be determined by a blue-ribbon panel of industry experts in conjunction with a consumer vote. Voting will take place in March and the winners will be announced in April.

The awards cover a wide array of home entertainment options, including streaming, from SVOD to AVOD and FAST; DVD, Blu-ray Disc and 4K Ultra HD Blu-ray; premium video-on-demand (PVOD) and digital sellthrough.

Submit your entries for the 2025 Home Entertainment Media Play Awards here

“Best of show” winners are then selected from among all eligible submissions for Packaged-Media Title of the Year, TV Disc Release of the Year and Best Blu-ray Disc. A “Fan-Favorite” trophy also will be awarded for the single title receiving the most consumer votes. Judges may also present awards based on special merit.

Last year’s Home Entertainment Media Play Awards saw Universal Pictures Home Entertainment’s Oppenheimer take six trophies including the top prize of Title of the Year, as well as Blu-ray Disc of the Year, Best 4K Ultra HD Disc, Best Audio/Visual Quality, Best New Movie Home Release and Fan-Favorite Title of the Year.

Overall, this is the 15th edition of the annual home entertainment awards.

Golden Globes Presenters Announced Ahead of Award Show’s Jan. 5 Ceremony

The Golden Globes Jan. 2 announced presenters for the 82nd annual Golden Globes, which will stream live on Sunday, Jan. 5 on Paramount+ in the U.S.

Presenters for the first major award show of the season will take the stage alongside host Nikki Glaser, who is making history as the first woman to host the Golden Globes on her own.

Presenters include Andrew Garfield, Anthony Mackie, Anthony Ramos, Anya Taylor-Joy, Ariana DeBose, Aubrey Plaza, Auliʻi Cravalho, Awkwafina, Brandi Carlile, Catherine O’Hara, Colin Farrell, Colman Domingo, Demi Moore, Dwayne Johnson, Édgar Ramírez, Elton John, Gal Gadot, Glenn Close, Jeff Goldblum, Jennifer Coolidge, Kaley Cuoco, Kate Hudson, Kathy Bates, Ke Huy Quan, Kerry Washington, Margaret Qualley, Melissa McCarthy, Michael Keaton, Michelle Yeoh, Miles Teller, Mindy Kaling, Morris Chestnut, Nate Bargatze, Nicolas Cage, Rachel Brosnahan, Rob McElhenney, Salma Hayek Pinault, Sarah Paulson, Seth Rogen, Sharon Stone, Vin Diesel, Viola Davis and Zoë Kravitz.

The awards ceremony will stream live and on-demand for Paramount+ with Showtime subscribers, or on-demand for Paramount+ Essential subscribers the day after the event airs.

‘Media Play News’ to Spotlight 20 AI ‘Triumphs’ in December Feature

Media Play News is premiering a new special feature in its December 2024 issue: A look at the 20 most creative uses of artificial intelligence in the digital and home entertainment industry.

“AI in Action: 2024’s Top 20 Transformative Triumphs” will spotlight the groundbreaking ways artificial intelligence and machine learning are reshaping the entertainment landscape. From revolutionizing content creation and enhancing viewer experiences to predicting what makes content resonate, the section will look at the way AI is transforming the way stories are told, shared and enjoyed.

“Artificial intelligence is transforming our industry,” said Media Play News editor in chief Stephanie Prange. “We plan to highlight the creative and effective uses of this evolving technology.”

Media Play News is inviting nominations from industry insiders to recognize the most inventive applications of AI across digital media. The top 20 selections will be chosen by the Media Play News editorial team and will be featured in the December issue.

Nominate AI initiatives here. 

Nominations must be received by Friday, Nov. 22. The December issue of Media Play News will be available Dec. 16 in both print and digital editions.

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