When Ted Hope joined Amazon Studios in 2015, the technology giant's algorithm-driven approach to content production seemed a rather strange fit for the renowned indie producer behind such films as Eternal Sunshine of the Spotless Mind and Happiness.
However, at the 2016 Sundance Festival - an event at which Hope is the only three-time Grand Jury prize-winning producer - he delivered in grand style his vision for streaming, not as the final death knell of the independent film industry, but as its saviour.
A vision Hope backed up with Amazon's deep pockets, reportedly outbidding major distributors Sony, Universal and Fox Searchlight to clinch the second biggest deal of the festival by paying $10 million for Matt Damon-produced drama Manchester by the Sea.
This article was originally published by WIRED UK
