1. Synergy Lesson Objectives: To be able to explain synergy, using appropriate terminology.

2. Merchandise What different types of movie merchandise can you think of?

4. Disney Synergy The film of ‘High School Musical’ promotes the DVD which promotes the soundtrack which promotes the advent calendar which promotes the doll which promotes the sequel which promotes the Disney Store which promotes the film…

6. ‘ Harry Potter and the Philosopher’s Stone’ (2001) In 2000 AOL and Time Warner merged. The promotion of ‘Harry Potter and the Philosopher’s Stone’ by AOL Time Warner is a good example of synergy. Adverts for the film were shown on HBO and the WB, both American TV channels which are subsidiaries of Time Warner. The soundtrack was released on Atlantic Records, part of Warner Music. Articles about the film appeared in newspapers and magazines owned by Time Warner. AOL’s internet service was offering merchandise, and ticket promotions tied to subscriptions for AOL’s services.

8. Key Words Sequelization Convergence or convergent Megafranchise Vertical integration Horizontal integration Ancillary revenue Multiple media platform Cross-promotion Constant media synergy Franchise Theatrical box office spectacle

13. MEGAFRANCHISES