Paramount Reportedly Shifts Focus: Prioritizing Big IP Projects Over Awards Season

Paramount is undergoing a major shake-up under its new leadership, with the studio now focusing heavily on commercial, IP-driven projects rather than awards-season fare.

Sources say the shift is part of a broader strategy to build big franchises and high-grossing tentpoles, moving away from riskier prestige films.

Recent layoffs at Paramount included longtime exec Naito, who had overseen several projects that went over budget, including Smurfs, which lost roughly $80 million. She was replaced by Jennifer Dodge, formerly president of entertainment at Spin Master. While insiders deny she was treated poorly, they note that the new regime’s direction made it clear that the studio was changing.

Under the guidance of David Ellison, the son of Oracle co-founder Larry Ellison, Paramount is pursuing a more aggressive, commercial-focused approach. Ellison has shown a willingness to hire executives who were previously sidelined, as well as revive projects or work with talent that had faced setbacks in the industry.

This includes big franchises like Rush Hour 4, a new Paranormal Activity movie with James Wan, and a live-action Teenage Mutant Ninja Turtles film guided by Neal H. Moritz.

Paramount is also emphasizing male-driven action tentpoles, such as a Call of Duty adaptation written by Taylor Sheridan and a high-budget motocross movie directed by James Mangold, starring Timothée Chalamet.

However, the studio has shown interest in a wider range of commercial genres, including R-rated comedies and horror franchises like A Quiet Place and Smile. The guiding principle is that every film should feel like an event, whether it’s a franchise, comedy, or drama.

Insiders note that Paramount has largely abandoned awards-focused projects. Its small internal awards team was laid off in October, and films like Roofman saw their awards campaigns scaled back. “They have no interest in anything but down-the-middle IP. It’s all about commerciality,” said one industry source.

Some films previously in development have been canceled or sold off, including Eloise to Netflix, Victor and Sam’s Day Off, and Colin Trevorrow’s Area 51 movie. Despite these cuts, Paramount plans to release 15 films a year starting in 2026, focusing on projects likely to deliver strong box office returns.

The studio’s approach also reflects a broader cultural and business philosophy. Ellison has taken cues from his work reshaping CBS News, targeting content he believes resonates with underserved audiences and mainstream commercial appeal. The strategy is less concerned with critical acclaim and more with audience engagement and franchise potential.

Paramount is also maintaining high-profile partnerships, including working with Trey Parker and Matt Stone on a new ensemble comedy featuring Kendrick Lamar, as well as continuing to collaborate with stars like Will Smith, Johnny Depp, and Tom Cruise. While some talent initially had friction with the new leadership, sources indicate most are now aligned with the studio’s commercial-first vision.

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