Buy "Shares" of Films on Hollywood Stock Exchange

Hollywood movies cost a lot of money to make, so most are funded by big studios. Obedience to the bottom line has often caused these studios to corrupt the original vision of film-makers in order to conform to profitable "formulas." Indie (independent) movies, by definition, are not funded by these large studios' dollars, so they can remain loyal to the original vision; often enabling beautiful, cinematic works that push the envelope of thought and art. Limited budgets, however, apply their own constraints and pressures.

To empower a new generation of inspired film-makers and artists, I propose a Wallstreet-type market where ownership shares of movies can be bought and sold like shares of stock. The IPO (initial public offering) would raise money for the production of a film. In return, investors would be paid dividends: their share of box office revenues, DVD royalties, etc. Share prices would be guided by supply and demand, projected revenues and costs, analyst opinions, statistical analysis of other works by the writers, directors, actors, etc.

The marketplace could be based in Hollywood with an online trading component, making it possible for diverse investors and film enthusiasts from all over the world to fund new works.



CATEGORY: Entertainment / Financial
IDEATION: July 2, 2006.

Progressive Brake Lights

Brake lights could be arranged in a series of 3 bulbs that turn on sequentially, depending on the degree of braking applied. This would warn the person following them how fast they are decelerating, preventing rear-end accidents and increasing the amount of information available to drivers around you on the road.

CATEGORY: Transportation
IDEATION: 2000