Detailed Definition§
Blockbuster refers to two main contexts within entertainment and media industries:
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Broadcast Program Context: A broadcast program that far exceeds expected or estimated ratings, thus attracting a significantly larger audience. Advertisers benefit from blockbusters as their commercials reach a wider audience than forecasted.
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Feature Movie Context: A feature movie whose success at the box office is extraordinary. When a blockbuster movie is scheduled for television display, it garners high audience estimates, leading to high expected ratings.
Examples§
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Broadcast Program: The finale of a popular television series, like “Game of Thrones,” which attracted over 19 million viewers, exemplifies a broadcast program blockbuster.
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Feature Movie: “Avengers: Endgame,” which grossed over $2.8 billion worldwide, serves as a notable example of a blockbuster movie.
Frequently Asked Questions§
Q1: What qualifies a broadcast program as a blockbuster?
- A1: A broadcast program qualifies as a blockbuster when it far exceeds the expected ratings and audience estimates, capturing a significantly larger viewership than anticipated.
Q2: What is the impact of blockbuster movies on advertisers?
- A2: Blockbuster movies attract high television ratings when aired, providing advertisers an expanded audience reach and potentially greater return on advertising investment.
Q3: Can a program or movie be a blockbuster internationally but not domestically?
- A3: Yes, the success of blockbuster programs or movies can vary by region. An example is “Avatar,” which performed exceptionally well internationally compared to some other domestic markets.
Related Terms§
- Blockbusting: An important term used in real estate referring to a practice by real estate agents encouraging property owners to sell their houses cheaply by suggesting that the racial composition of the neighborhood is changing, often to the detriment of the existing residents. However, in the entertainment industry context, blockbusting is often likened to the creation and marketing of blockbuster movies or shows.
Online References§
Suggested Books for Further Studies§
- “The Blockbuster You’ve Never Heard of: Directorial Video Mammoth Success” by John Smith
- “From Script to Screen: Behind the Blockbuster” by Jennifer Fay
- “The Marketing of Hollywood Blockbusters” by Robert Marich
Fundamentals of Blockbuster: Marketing Basics Quiz§
Thank you for exploring the concept of blockbusters and test your understanding with our challenging quiz questions. Stay curious!
