Definition and Coverage
Variety is one of the longest-running trade publications, covering film, television, theater, music and digital entertainment. It offers news briefs, feature articles, box office data, festival reports and critical reviews, serving both studio insiders and general audiences interested in the business of show.
Origins and Evolution
Launched in 1905 by Sime Silverman as a weekly newspaper focusing on Broadway, Variety expanded into Hollywood coverage in the 1910s. Its distinctive “slanguage” of insider jargon and wry headlines became a hallmark. In the 1930s, Variety introduced box office charts and movie reviews, setting industry standards. The magazine launched its digital edition in 1998 and now operates a robust website, app and newsletter network, reaching millions of readers worldwide.
Variety: Key Features
- Box Office Charts: Weekly and daily gross reports, market shares.
- Variety Insight: Paid database with credits, contact info and project listings.
- Festivals & Markets: Cannes, TIFF and MIPCOM coverage, acquisition reports.
- Critics’ Reviews: Films, shows and streaming originals evaluated by an editorial board.
Variety: Industry Impact
Variety’s scoops and analyses influence financing decisions, talent negotiations and distribution strategies. Its festivals guides and “10 to Watch” lists highlight emerging talent and trends. Through podcasts, video interviews and live events, Variety fosters community and dialogue among creatives, executives and investors, cementing its status as a cornerstone of entertainment journalism.