2/21/2012
By David Urani, Research Analyst

Movie industry stocks continue to rise from C-list obscurity as we initially noted last week, with a couple of positive points of interest. President's Day weekend went well, and once again Box Office numbers were above expectations. That included the critically-trashed Ghost Rider sequel, which somehow managed $25.7 million. And what was maybe the main driver of today's movement was a new deal between the US and China to allow more movies to play in that country. There is a maximum of 20 foreign-made films allowed in China a year, and the new deal would add 14 additional films to account for IMAX and 3-D versions. Profit sharing will also increase to 25% from 13% for the foreign filmmakers. That was especially positive for the likes of RealD (RLD +4.2%) and IMAX (IMAX +6.5%). Other movers included DWA and LGF

Year to date industry trends have been looking much brighter than last year, and the stocks are reflecting that. And after a poor 2011, some are still poised for ongoing rebounds.

David Urani
Wall Street Strategies